Frequently Asked Questions

Here you will learn more about Sidekick Concierge and what to expect in general. We have compiled some frequently asked questions and answers about our commitment to you and the services we provide. If you have other questions or any concerns, we warmly welcome your inquiry.

What is a Sidekick?

Consider a Sidekick your personal assistant, problem-solver, private concierge and friendly companion. Sidekicks endeavor to make your life easier, richer and more enjoyable. (And Sidekicks enjoy spending time with you too!)

Who are the Sidekicks?

Highly screened and vetted, Sidekicks may be stay-at-home parents or empty-nesters in your community; professional artists, actors or writers or graduate students in your area; they may be teachers from your local school district or early retirees. They have flexible hours and big hearts. Sidekicks excel at performing tasks, helping with errands and providing spirited companionship. Most importantly, Sidekicks are thoughtful, trustworthy “people” people who enjoy making new connections and helping out in their communities.

How do you find such great Sidekicks?

We are very particular. Our rigorous screening process is designed to find the best, most capable companions. To start, we actively search for applicants whose values align with Sidekick’s commitment to serving seniors and their families. Sidekicks must then unequivocally pass our company’s 10-Point Trust Checklist which includes a personal interview, reference checks, multiple background checks and training. From the beginning, it was also essential to us that Sidekicks are well compensated for their important work.  

What makes Sidekick Concierge so special?

Sidekick is built around thoughtful matching and real relationships. We take the time to pair each client with the right Sidekick, so support feels natural, consistent, and truly personal.

Our Sidekicks are highly vetted, accomplished, endlessly patient individuals who bring not just reliability, but presence, engagement, and genuine care.

Our goal is to empower our clients to do more and continue living life on their own terms. We provide support that enhances independence, not replaces it.

Our model is also intentionally flexible. With a simple two-hour minimum and no long-term commitment, Sidekick fits easily into your life and your schedule.

Behind the scenes, you have a dedicated team supporting you with regular check-ins and expert guidance. You also have special access to our SideCircle programming and community events so you always feel connected, supported, and engaged.

How do you match me with a Sidekick?

At Sidekick Concierge, our goal is to exceed your expectations. When determining which Sidekick to match you with, we consider your needs, background, hobbies and interests. We also take into account availability and location. We work hard to thoughtfully pair you with the right Sidekick and will continue to support you throughout your time as a client.

How do I book a Sidekick?

It’s simple. You can email us or call us directly at 866-LIVEFUL (866-548-3385) to get started. When you call, one of our amazing team members will spend time getting to know you so we can thoughtfully pair you with the right Sidekick to best meet your needs.

How long is a typical visit?

Our service is extremely flexible and has been designed to meet your needs. While many of our clients book us several times a week for a few hours at a time, your Sidekick can also come in for a single session. All sessions must be a minimum of two hours (three hours in certain service areas).

How will I know who is coming?

Once we match you with a Sidekick, we will email you their profile and photograph. You have the option of a virtual “Meet & Greet” with your Sidekick (up to 30 minutes-fee $49) or an in-person Introductory Meeting (up to 1 hour-fee $98). This virtual visit provides an opportunity to get acquainted, confirm fit, share information and set expectations.

Do Sidekicks provide personal care?

Sidekick Concierge is not a healthcare provider nor are Sidekicks substitutes for nurses or home-aides. Sidekicks do not provide any personal care including bathing, feeding or any medical care.

What tasks can a Sidekick do? What is off limits?

Sidekicks are happy to help with a variety of household projects, tasks and errands. Common requests include home organization projects, paperwork, bill paying, meal prep, errands around town (either together or independently), assistance with emails or correspondence or just hanging out. Sidekicks accompany clients to the salon, exercise classes, cultural outings or to medical appointments and can share notes with family members. Sidekicks are highly capable and eager to help – we couldn’t possibly exhaust the list of possibilities. But please keep in mind that while Sidekicks are handy and happy to help with organization and meal prep, they are not housekeepers or landscapers (or plumbers or electricians!). They will also not provide any health or personal care nor are they certified to do so.

Can Sidekicks drive seniors?

Yes! Many of our amazing and trustworthy Sidekicks are available to personally drive you to appointments, cultural outings and other happenings around town. They can escort you to the airport and assist you through the check-in process. Sidekicks can also run errands with you or on your behalf. Sidekicks can drive your car or their own vehicle. Driving sessions incur an additional $15 fee ($30 in NYC) which includes the first 10 miles. If your Sidekick drives their car, there will be an additional fee of $2/mile after the first 10 miles. If the Sidekick is driving a couple (or any two people), the hourly rate for Sidekick Core will be $79/hour. Rest assured that we have applied our rigorous safety standards to our driving service. In order to drive our clients, all Sidekicks have clean Motor Vehicle Reports and are indemnified and insured.

Can I book a Sidekick for my parents (or other family member)?

Yes! Booking time with a Sidekick is a wonderful gift for a parent or a loved one. We can set you up as a one-time or ongoing designated payee for your loved one’s account. We will then email you bi-monthly invoices that can be paid via Zelle, ACH, credit or debit card.

What is Sidecircle?

SideCircle is our way of bringing the Sidekick community together. It is a curated, complimentary program created exclusively for our clients.

Through SideCircle, you can explore arts and cultural talks, wellness forums, social gatherings, expert-led discussions on caregiving, and practical technology workshops. We offer virtual events through Zoom as well as in-person tours, parties, and events.

It is all designed to keep you engaged, connected, and learning, wherever you are.

You can check out upcoming events here.

How much are your services, and how do I pay for my visits?

Check out our pricing page, or call us to learn more about our pricing and services. We will email you bi-monthly invoices that can be paid via Zelle, ACH, credit or debit cards. All clients need to provide us with an email address for billing purposes.

If I invite my Sidekick to a meal or a special event, is that considered a billable Sidekick visit?

Yes. Any time spent together is considered a visit and is billed accordingly.

This is a question we often get because Sidekicks and their clients form such meaningful bonds!

Your Sidekick’s time with you is their dedicated working time, and we want to ensure they are fairly compensated. While they genuinely enjoy spending time with you, they are setting aside other commitments to be with you.

In many ways, this is exactly what we hope for. Relationships that make support feel easy, natural, and truly personal.

When my Sidekick accompanies me to a meal or event, who is responsible for the cost?

You are responsible for covering all costs incurred during time spent together. This includes meals, event tickets, transportation, or any other shared expenses.

Why do I need to pay a new client fee and an annual membership fee?

Our fees reflect the care, attention, and ongoing support that go into the Sidekick experience.

The New Client Fee covers everything needed to get started thoughtfully and seamlessly. This includes your initial intake, creation of a personalized client profile, and our careful matching process. It also includes background and reference checks, a complimentary 30-minute virtual Meet & Greet with a prospective Sidekick, and ongoing guidance from our management team as we find the right fit.

Once you are part of the Sidekick community, the Annual Membership Fee supports the ongoing experience. This includes regular check-ins with our team, continued access to all SideCircle programming and exclusive member events, as well as introductions to our trusted network of partners.

Both fees ensure that we can provide a highly personalized, relationship-based service, and remain actively involved in making sure everything continues to feel like the right fit over time.

What Payment methods does Sidekick Concierge accept?

  • Zelle

  • ACH bank transfer

  • Credit and debit cards

Which payment methods do most clients use?

Most clients choose Zelle because it’s quick, secure, and fee-free. We are happy to accept ACH, credit and debit cards as well.

Is Zelle secure?

Yes. Zelle is a widely used, bank-supported payment method with strong security standards. Zelle is offered by most major banks and credit unions in the United States. It allows you to send money directly from your bank account to ours—there are no checks to mail and no extra trips to the bank.

Why don’t you accept checks?

As a small business, delayed or returned checks, issues with the postal service, as well as the time involved with processing checks, creates a significant financial and administrative burden. Stolen mail and checks expose you to the possibility of fraud, an increasing occurrence. This change is necessary to ensure the safety and security of our community.

What do I need to do to set up ACH, credit or debit card?

You will need to set up an account on our software system’s secure portal. This is quick and easy–contact us for support: email us or call us directly at 866-LIVEFUL (866-548-3385).

Can I set up automatic payments?

Yes! You will need to set up an account on our software system’s secure portal. This is quick and easy–contact us for support: email us or call us directly at 866-LIVEFUL (866-548-3385).

Anything else I need to know about payments?

Yes–no matter which payment option you choose, we request that every client provide credit card information to keep on file with Sidekick Concierge as a back-up payment option. 

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that sometimes plans change and you may need to cancel your appointment. We ask that you contact us at least 24 hours in advance via email or phone. Because our amazing Sidekicks block their calendars to spend time with you, visits canceled within the 24-hour period will be charged in full.

Is Sidekick Concierge insured?

Yes - we are fully insured and bonded.

Can I trust a Sidekick with my own mother? And my father?

Yes. We do with ours!