Yes, it's true!  New license application fees increase  to $900 in July 2009. Here is is, straight from the State Website:

  "Per recent legislation, the fee to be submitted with the AFH license application is $900, for all AFH applications postmarked on or after July 26, 2009. The $900 fee is based on a $100 licensing fee for first year of licensure, and an $800 application processing fee.  If the applicant is not licensed, the $100 licensing fee will be returned to the applicant, but not the $800 application processing fee."   C  http://www.adsa.dshs.wa.gov/professional/afh/applications.htm

Need to get the word out about your Care Services?  The internet is here to stay.  Online research for everything is now the norm, and every business or individual service provider needs a web presence.  But how do you get that website noticed?  Through Social Media Networking!  Just be careful... each social network has its own rules of etiquette.  Follow the "rules" of the group, add value to the community,  and you'll find yourself perceived as a leader and expert in your field.  Then, when someone needs the service you offer, they will immediately think of you as someone they can trust, and seek you out. 

Need help creating your own website?  Need to learn about social media networking and other low or no cost marketing methods?  QNC's AFH Business Coaching includes this and more. One of our monthly calls is focused on marketing methods... because you may have the best care business in the world, but if you are unknown, your bank account will remain empty.  Learn to work ON your business as well as IN it. 

Aaron Mountain, WSRCC President, contacted me today... He has 15 years experience as an AFH Care Provider.  We spoke of online medical records, which he has used in his Care Homes.  My licensor told me that with any online system, the caregivers must be able to print out in paper form at any time.  He corrected that... Aaron said he verified that state law requires that licensors be allowed access to resident records in EITHER electronic OR hard copy form.  That means that when we use online systems, we are not required to print on demand.

Each small piece of knowledge can save a care provider both time and money. It's important to know the ins and outs of your business... one way to keep up is to work with your local AFH Association.  Working as a team benefits everyone.