While it may be tempting to pay your nanny or other household employee “off the books,” the benefits of being compliant with tax and labor laws far outweigh the risks of not following the law. Plus you'll have peace of mind knowing you are adhering to your...
Q: We will be interviewing a nanny who came highly recommended. But we have heard from a friend that this nanny has been in and out of the hospital lately due to back pain. Is this something we can ask her about during the interview? A: According to the Americans...
There is more to paying your household employee then just cutting them a paycheck each week. Taxes need to be paid (by the employer and employee) and insurance coverage may need to be in place, just to start. The four key reasons to use a nanny payroll service are:...
Here is a library of IRS publications for homeowners, covering many issues of concern. Title Publication Number Description Home Mortgage Interest Deduction 936 Includes general information on home mortgage interest, including points, how to report deductible interest...
A household employer must understand the federal, state, and local employment laws that pertain to his or her household. Many laws require the employer to obtain, file, and submit necessary paperwork. Tax laws also have paperwork requirements, such as reporting wages...
Q: We use a nanny occasionally in the mornings and afternoons, but we are going out of town and she will be staying two nights with the kids. She has never stayed overnight before. What do we need to know? How should she prepare? A: A nanny staying overnight on...
There are many concerns to consider when you are involved in hiring a nanny or other household employee, as well as many legalities to abide by to ensure equitable and fair employment opportunities. By taking the hiring process one step at a time, you can proceed with...
The IRS defines a household employer as any person who employs housekeepers, maids, gardeners, and others who work in and around an individual’s private residence. A nanny is an example of such an employee. In becoming a household employer, it is critical that you...
Q: My nanny wants to get a tattoo. Can I ask her not to do so, or require that she cover it while in my home? A: An issue like this warrants a discussion with your nanny, and in this case it's fortunate that she brought up the idea with you beforehand, as opposed to...
