Are you a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) looking to take your career to the next level? One smart move is to form an LLC (Limited Liability Company) to operate as an independent contractor, offer private care services, or expand into healthcare staffing.
But can you turn your CNA license into an LLC?
Absolutely—you can’t convert the license itself, but you can form an LLC that allows you to legally and professionally offer services under a business entity.
In this guide, we break down how to turn your CNA license into an LLC, step-by-step.
Why Should a CNA Form an LLC?
Forming an LLC as a CNA can offer major benefits:
1. Personal Liability Protection
An LLC separates your personal assets from your business. If a client sues your business, your personal bank accounts and property are protected.
2. Tax Flexibility
You can deduct business expenses (like travel, uniforms, supplies, etc.) and even choose to be taxed as an S-Corp for savings.
3. Professionalism
Operating under an LLC gives you a business name, helps you secure contracts, and builds trust with clients.
4. Future Growth
You can expand into home care services, hire other CNAs, or contract with healthcare facilities.
How to Turn Your CNA License Into an LLC (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Choose a Business Name
Pick a name for your CNA business. It should be:
- Professional and related to caregiving (e.g., “BrightCare CNA Services LLC”)
- Unique in your state
- Include “LLC” or “Limited Liability Company” in the name
Tip: Search your Secretary of State’s website to make sure the name is available.
Step 2: File LLC Formation Documents
File your Articles of Organization (or Certificate of Formation) with your state. This is how you officially register your LLC.
Most states let you file online for a small fee (typically $50–$150).
You’ll need to provide:
- LLC name and address
- Registered agent info
- Business purpose (e.g., “home health aide and caregiving services”)
- Management structure (member- or manager-managed)
Step 3: Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
Apply for an EIN from the IRS. It’s free and required for:
- Opening a business bank account
- Filing taxes
- Hiring employees (if you expand later)
Apply online at the IRS EIN portal.
Step 4: Create an Operating Agreement
An Operating Agreement outlines how your LLC will be managed, even if you’re the only owner.
Include:
- Member responsibilities
- How profits will be handled
- Rules for adding/removing members
- Liability protection language
Some states require this, and it helps prove your LLC is legitimate for tax or legal purposes.
Step 5: Open a Business Bank Account
Keep your business and personal finances separate. Open a dedicated:
- Business checking account
- Business debit/credit card
- Use accounting software to track expenses and income
This ensures clean bookkeeping and protects your liability shield.
Step 6: Get Any Required State or Local Licenses
While your CNA license stays under your name, your LLC may still need:
- A home care license (if offering in-home services)
- Local business licenses or health department clearance
- General liability or professional liability insurance
Check your state’s health department and local county or city for requirements.
Step 7: Start Offering Services Under the LLC
You’re now ready to provide CNA services legally under your LLC name. You can:
- Contract with clients directly
- Offer private-duty care
- Apply for contracts with hospitals, nursing homes, or agencies
- Promote your services online as a professional business
Always sign contracts and invoices using your LLC name, not your personal name.
Example CNA Business Ideas Under an LLC
- Private In-Home CNA Services
- Senior Companionship and Daily Care
- Post-Hospital Discharge Support
- CNA Staffing for Healthcare Facilities
- Mobile Vital Sign & Wellness Checks
Can You Be Both an Employee and an LLC?
Yes. You can keep working at a facility as an employee and offer private services through your LLC on the side.
Just make sure:
- You’re not violating your employment contract
- You follow HIPAA and privacy laws in both roles
- You report income separately for your business
Final Thoughts
You can’t literally turn your CNA license into an LLC—but you can start a business around your CNA skills, and doing so legally and strategically puts you on a path toward independence, income growth, and long-term success.
Whether you want to freelance, offer home care, or grow a team, forming an LLC is the best way to protect yourself and run professionally.
