Your Questions, Answered

We know finding care comes with a lot of questions. Here are answers to some of the most common ones we hear from families considering Lokal.

If you don’t see your question here, feel free to reach out.

  • No. Lokal is a membership-based childcare concierge. We provide curated introductions to independent caregivers, but we do not employ caregivers, place them, or guarantee services.

    Families interview and hire caregivers directly.

  • Lokal is not a self-serve platform. Families don’t browse profiles or post requests publicly. Instead, members message the Lokal team, and we handle the matching process thoughtfully and privately.

  • Lokal operates on a monthly membership model designed to support families over time. Membership includes ongoing access to personalized support and caregiver introductions whenever care is needed.

  • Membership is billed monthly and includes a 3-month minimum commitment. This allows us to provide thoughtful, consistent support while maintaining quality and availability.

  • Membership is $75 per month. There is no cost to apply, and payment is only required after your application is accepted.

  • Care is rarely a one-time need. The minimum commitment allows us to invest time in understanding your family and providing reliable, ongoing support rather than transactional, one-off matches.

  • Lokal is intentionally small and relationship-focused. The application process helps us understand your needs and ensure we’re able to provide the level of support Lokal is known for.

  • Memberships are offered on a rolling basis, depending on availability. At times, families may be placed on a short waitlist to maintain quality and responsiveness.

  • Most families hear back within 1–2 business days.

  • Once your membership is active, you can request care anytime by messaging the Lokal team. We’ll review availability and follow up with next steps.

  • Most families receive caregiver introductions within 3–5 business days, depending on the request. Time-sensitive needs are handled as availability allows.

    We prioritize thoughtful matching over rushing introductions.

  • No. Lokal does not guarantee caregiver availability or outcomes. We share introductions as availability allows, and families interview and hire caregivers directly.

  • No. We do not charge caregivers to be part of the Lokal network. We invest time in recruiting, interviewing, and getting to know providers personally.

  • Families pay caregivers directly. Lokal does not handle payroll or payments between families and caregivers.

  • As a general guideline, families should expect most qualified childcare providers in the Lokal network to charge between $25–$30 per hour, depending on experience, responsibilities, and time commitment.

    Families and caregivers discuss terms directly.

  • Lokal works best for families who value long-term support, thoughtful matching, and reduced mental load around care.

  • Lokal may not be the best fit for families seeking one-time, transactional solutions, guaranteed last-minute care, or the lowest-cost option available.