Struggling to get enough shifts as a CNA? You’re not alone. Many CNAs discover that aligning with just one staffing agency leaves them with frustrating gaps in their schedule and income. When you apply for more than one CNA agency, a world of opportunities opens up—but so does a new set of challenges. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to successfully juggle multiple agency gigs without losing your sanity or professional reputation.
The Short Answer: Yes (Usually). Here’s Why
Legally speaking, you can absolutely work for multiple CNA agencies simultaneously. Most CNAs work as W2 employees rather than independent contractors, which means you’re not bound by exclusivity clauses. Think of it like having several part-time jobs—perfectly legal as long as you fulfill your obligations to each employer.
The key exception? Non-compete clauses. These rarely appear in CNA contracts because agencies typically compete for staff, not facilities. However, always read your contract carefully. Some agencies might restrict you from working directly with a facility where they’ve placed you for a set period after an assignment ends.
Clinical Pearl: Always read agency contracts with a highlighter. Look specifically for any language about exclusivity, non-compete periods, or restrictions on working for competing agencies within a certain time frame.
The Upside: 5 Major Benefits of Working Multiple Agencies
1. Maximum Shift Availability
When your primary agency has no shifts available, your secondary agency becomes your financial safety net. This redundancy proves invaluable during slow seasons or unexpected schedule cancellations.
2. Better Pay Rates
Different agencies offer different pay rates—even for the same facility and shift. Working with multiple agencies allows you to cherry-pick the highest-paying opportunities and understand your local market value.
3. Diverse Clinical Experience
Exposing yourself to various facilities and care settings enhances your skills and adaptability. You’ll encounter different documentation systems, patient populations, and facility cultures—making you a more well-rounded healthcare professional.
4. Expanded Professional Network
Each agency connects you with new schedulers, facility managers, and fellow CNAs. These relationships often translate into better shift opportunities and valuable industry insights.
5. Backup for Scheduling Conflicts
Imagine this: You accept a shift through Agency A, but hours later, Agency B offers a premium-rate shift at your favorite facility. With multiple agency partnerships, you have options rather than being locked into a single opportunity pipeline.
Pro Tip: Track facility preferences, pay rates, and your experiences in a simple spreadsheet. This data becomes your negotiation tool for future opportunities and helps you identify which agencies offer the best deals at specific locations.
The Reality Check: 5 Big Risks and Downsides to Manage
1. Scheduling Complexity
Double-booking yourself is a serious mistake that can damage your reputation with both agencies and facilities. Tracking availability across multiple phone numbers, apps, and email threads requires military-level organization.
2. Increased Burnout Risk
The temptation to fill every available shift can lead to exhaustion. Without strict boundaries, 60-hour workweeks quickly become the norm rather than the exception.
3. Scattered Documentation
Each agency has different timekeeping systems, mobile apps, and payroll schedules. Keeping track of hours, pay rates, and submissions becomes a part-time job in itself.
4. Divided Loyalty Perception
Facility managers may perceive you as less reliable or committed when they see you working through multiple agencies. This can affect your chances of securing preferred shifts in the future.
5. Tax Complications
Managing multiple W2 employers means additional paperwork at tax time. Your income may also fluctuate significantly between pay periods, making budgeting more challenging.
Common Mistake: Accepting shifts without checking your existing schedule against other agency commitments. Always confirm availability in your master calendar before accepting any new shift, even if the scheduler is pressuring you for an immediate answer.
How to Make It Work: 7 Practical Tips for Success
1. Create a Master Calendar System
Use a digital calendar app (like Google Calendar) with color-coding for each agency. Set alerts 24 hours before every shift and immediately block unavailable time slots.
2. Establish Clear Boundaries
Define your maximum weekly hours in advance and communicate this to each agency scheduler. You might say: “I’m available for up to 48 hours per week across my agencies. Please keep this in mind when offering shifts.”
3. Develop Reliable Communication Methods
Create a separate email folder for each agency and use text message filters to organize communications from different schedulers. Respond promptly to maintain good relationships.
4. Standardize Your Credential Management
Keep digital copies of all certifications, TB tests, and background checks in a cloud folder. Most agencies require the same documents—having them readily available speeds up the onboarding process.
5. Track Everything Meticulously
Use a dedicated app or spreadsheet to log:
- Hours worked per agency
- Rate per shift
- Facility locations
- Check-in/check-out times
- Any additional payments
6. Understand Each Agency’s Cancellation Policy
Life happens—sickness, family emergencies, transportation issues. Know each agency’s policy on shift cancellations and how far in advance you must notify them.
7. Build Professional Relationships
Treat every scheduler and facility manager with respect, regardless of the agency. Your reputation follows you across organizations, and positive relationships lead to better shift opportunities.
Key Takeaway: Successful CNA agency work requires treating your career like a small business. Your time, skills, and reputation are your most valuable assets—manage them with the same care and strategy you’d apply to managing finances.
Before You Sign: How to Choose Your Agency Partners
Not all agencies are created equal. Use this comparison framework to select partners that align with your needs:
| Factor | Agency Type A | Agency Type B | Agency Type C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pay Rate | Average market rate | Premium rates for difficult shifts | Lower rates but steady volume |
| Scheduler Support | Limited hours | 24/7 availability | Business hours only |
| App Technology | Clunky interface | User-friendly with instant updates | Call-in system only |
| Facility Quality | Mixed reputation | Premium facilities only | Variety of locations |
| Payment Speed | Biweekly | Weekly | Daily (with fee) |
| Winner/Best For | Starting CNAs seeking variety | Experienced CNAs maximizing income | CNAs needing steady, predictable hours |
Agency Selection Checklist:
- [ ] Pay rate transparency (no hidden fees)
- [ ] Clear cancellation policy
- [ ] Reliable scheduler support
- [ ] User-friendly technology for picking up shifts
- [ ] Quality of facility partnerships
- [ ] Payment frequency and method
- [ ] Support with credential management
- [ ] Professional development opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions
Can agencies share my information with each other?
No. Your employment information should remain confidential between you and each agency. However, facility managers might recognize you from other agencies, which isn’t necessarily negative if you maintain professionalism.
What if I accidentally double-book a shift?
Immediately contact both agencies, be honest about the mistake, and work with them to find a solution. Taking responsibility quickly minimizes damage to your professional reputation.
Do I need to notify agencies that I work for others?
Honesty is the best policy. Most agencies assume competitive CNAs work with multiple staffing companies. Framing it professionally shows you’re strategic rather than deceitful.
Conclusion & Key Takeaways
Working with multiple CNA agencies offers tremendous flexibility and income potential when managed strategically. The key benefits include maximum shift availability, rate comparison, and diverse clinical experiences. However, success demands exceptional organization, clear boundaries, and meticulous communication. Choose your agency partners wisely based on your career goals and work preferences, and always maintain professionalism across organizations. By treating your CNA career as a business, you can maximize your opportunities without sacrificing your well-being or reputation.
Are you working for multiple agencies? Share your biggest pro or con in the comments below!
For more tips on advancing your CNA career, sign up for our free weekly newsletter for exclusive insights and strategies.
Read next: 5 Warning Signs of CNA Burnout (And How to Stop It) to ensure your multi-agency approach works with your lifestyle, not against it.