How to Start an Assisted Living Home in Los Angeles
- 1). Attend a required orientation. This is where professionals from the State of California address specific questions, concerns and provide information on the licensing process. A nominal fee is required to attend a local orientation and must be paid at the time of registration or the day of orientation. Receive an orientation schedule by contacting the Department of Social Services Licensing Division at (323) 980-4934 and selecting option number 3.
- 2). Register your business with the Secretary of State either as a corporation, nonprofit, or sole proprietor. Contact a tax attorney or a certified public accountant to discover which business structure you would benefit most from based on your new assisted living facility. There may be certain tax benefits and credits for you at the end of the year.
- 3). Select a facility. It is necessary to purchase a home or commercial facility to operate your assisted living home in Los Angeles. Converting a private residence is an option but then you must also undergo inspections by the Department of Social Services Licensing Division including kitchen, resident quarters and the private quarters of the home owner.
- 4). Identify and hire qualified staff. The number of staff members you need depends on the number of adult residents you will serve. During orientation, the Department of Social Services provides a packet of information to attendees to assist in determining the number of adults feasible for your business size.
- 5). Have three times the operational expenses available in your business account. As a part of the final licensing process, the Department of Social Services will verify that you have this amount in your business account to begin operations. A certified public accountant can assist with determining your operating expenses.