FAQ's

What is an "on-call" nanny?

I am a Temp Nanny... A parent can call and 'Hire" me with as little as 24 hours notice; I have been known to do rush jobs with one hours notice (extra fee). Temporary nannies provide summertime help, new baby care or backup care. Assignments may last anywhere from a few hours to up to three months. I also play the role of a professional babysitter for hotel clients & parents looking for date night care or I can be that extra set of hands to help a parent at home.

Can you explain any differences in hiring an on-call nanny vs. a full-time or live-in nanny?

The difference is that I have to go into a variety of homes and handle different rules, expectations and personalities. Nannies and other Childcare providers who work full or part-time get the benefit of an interview to see if they mesh well with the family.

What if I want to hire you as a regular Full/Part-time caregiver?

Full & Part-time Nannies are paid at least the Federal minimum wage and receive time and a half after 40 hours of work each week; parents are also responsible for paying taxes. Part-time help usually earns more per hour than FT. In general, hours worked includes all time that the employee is required to be at the employer's home and all time that the employee is required to be 'on call' in the course of his/her duties. This is mandatory under Federal Labor regulations.

Do I have to pay taxes?

Yes. If you want to hire me Full or Part-time, but not if you use my On-call services; Household employers can expect to pay the following:

Half of Social Security & Medicare (7.65%)
Federal and state unemployment insurance

Good News! The employer tax obligation can be largely – if not completely – offset by tax breaks.

What are my tax breaks? Do your services count for the child care credit comes tax time?

To lighten the burden that falls on working parents, Congress has enacted tax benefits for families through employer-provided dependent care assistance (Dependent Care Account) and the Tax Credit for Child or Dependent Care. However, these tax breaks are only available if the household employee is paid legally.

I can't afford your services? Can I barter for some of the pay?

The income from my services pays my rent and bills just as your paycheck pays for yours so I cannot afford to work for less than minimum wage, plus as an independent business I pay self employment taxes of 15%; my current fees barely cover that plus mileage. I will barter for some payments if you can offer a service or item I need. I have been known to trade partial payments for fresh eggs, veggies or a haircut - you never know until you ask.