Ending a job is never easy. Whether it is the nanny’s or the family’s decision, or a mutual agreement to part ways, there are many things for nannies to take into consideration during this time of transition. To help you through this challenging and unsure time, we have developed some nanny transition tips and helpful resources to get caregivers back on track and on the way to the next great chapter in their career.
Transition Checklist
- Make sure to return any items that your employer provided you during employment (i.e. car or house keys, car seats, garage door opener, gas card, cell phone, etc.).
- Make sure you understand the process of receiving your final paycheck and any remaining pay (severance) that has been agreed upon.
- Ask for a letter of reference from your employer.
- If applicable, contact the agency you were placed through to notify them of the situation and to reactivate your profile with them.
- If you have been involuntarily terminated or you feel you are entitled to unemployment benefits, contact your state’s unemployment office to find out if you are eligible (see resource #2 below).
- If you have medical or dental insurance through your employer, find out if you are eligible for COBRA or Mini-COBRA (see resource #1 below).
- Make sure to update your previous employer if your address changes so the proper W2 year-end tax information is sent to the correct location prior to January 31st of the following calendar year.
Helpful Resources
1) Health/Dental Continuation Coverage
- Find out if you’re eligible for COBRA or Mini-COBRA by visiting: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ebsa/laws-and-regulations/laws/cobra
2) State Unemployment Benefits
- Find state specific information, FAQ’s, forms, publications, and links to your state’s main unemployment benefits website at: http://www.unemployment-resources.org/
3) Job Placement Resources
- NannyJobs.com (http://www.nannyjobs.com) is a job posting site where household placement agencies recruit for nannies and other household employees. Create a profile, apply to jobs, and search the agency directory for a placement agency near you.
- My Next Move (http://www.mynextmove.org/): Search careers by keywords, browse careers by industry, and discover your interests and related careers. Receive a job market outlook, salary range, and suggestions for similar occupations.
- Sponsored by the US Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration, CareerOneStop (http://www.careeronestop.org/) provides local resources to explore new careers, find education and training, get advice on resumes and cover letters, interview tips, salary negotiation, and more.
Best of luck in your job search and your future endeavors!