Hiring a nanny is a big step for any family—it means welcoming someone into your home, trusting them with your children, and becoming a household employer. But with that role comes responsibility, including the potential for workers’ compensation claims if your nanny gets hurt on the job.
While you can’t prevent every accident, there are smart steps you can take to reduce risk, protect your nanny, and shield your family from legal and financial headaches.
1. Understand Your Legal Obligations
In most states, families who employ a nanny are legally required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This coverage pays for medical expenses and lost wages if your nanny gets injured while working. Even in states where it’s not mandatory, it’s strongly recommended—because if your nanny is hurt on the job and you don’t have coverage, you could be liable out of pocket.
Household employers in New York must have workers’ compensation coverage for employees working 40 hours or more per week. This applies to live-in and live-out employees.
2. Create a Safe Work Environment
Your nanny’s “workplace” is your home, yard, car, and anywhere else your nanny might take your child. Identify and address potential hazards—such as broken steps, loose rugs, faulty child equipment, or icy walkways.
Do a home safety walkthrough before your nanny’s first day and regularly afterward. Don’t forget car seats—install them properly and teach your nanny how to use them.
3. Train Your Nanny on Safety Protocols
Don’t assume your nanny already knows everything. Offer guidance on safe lifting techniques, food safety, emergency procedures, and safe driving practices (if they’ll be transporting your children).
Include safety expectations in your nanny’s written work agreement and revisit them during regular check-ins.
4. Document Everything
Keeping clear records is crucial. This includes work agreements, time-off logs, incident reports (if anything goes wrong), and safety trainings. Good documentation can help prevent miscommunication—and it may be vital if a claim ever arises.
Include a section on injury reporting in your handbook or work agreement so everyone is on the same page.
5. Use a Reputable Payroll Service
Under-the-table arrangements may seem easier, but they expose you to huge risks—including unpaid taxes and ineligibility for workers’ comp coverage. A reputable payroll provider will ensure you’re compliant with tax and labor laws, and many offer workers’ comp policies as part of their services.
Did You Know? Our payroll partner GTM Payroll & HR offers integrated workers’ compensation insurance and payroll solutions designed specifically for household employers.
6. Address Injuries Promptly and Respectfully
Even with precautions, accidents can happen. If your nanny is injured:
- Make sure they get medical attention right away.
- Report the injury to your insurance carrier.
- Document what happened, and follow up.
Handling an incident professionally and with empathy can reduce tension and help avoid escalation.
Final Thoughts
Being a household employer comes with unique responsibilities—but with the right steps, you can prevent workplace injuries and avoid a costly workers’ compensation claim. Think of it this way: protecting your nanny protects your family, too.
Hire Your Nanny Through A New England Nanny
Whether you want a full-time nanny, help with after-school care, or occasional babysitting, we have professional, reliable, thoroughly screened caregivers. Request a service or give us a call (518) 348-0400 and we’ll provide a free consultation to get you the care you need!