How to Write a Contract for Your Nanny

When you hire a nanny, have her sign a contract so that the agreement is spelled out clearly.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tax Software

1. Know that when you hire a nanny it is in your best interest to have a written contract - that way there's no later confusion as to what the agreement was.

2. Tell your nanny that you will require her to sign a written contract stipulating all of the duties she will have, as well as salary arrangements.

3. State in the contract's first sentence that this is a contract between parents and nanny for child-care services and that the written contract contains the entire agreement that has been made between parties.

4. State how the nanny is to be paid - hourly, weekly or by 24-hour periods - and the amount of payment. State when payment will be given. List any holidays (paid or unpaid) and vacation time the nanny will receive, as well the sick-day policy. Include information about pay for mileage. Indicate if room and board are part of the salary package and what exactly it includes - which room, which meals, and so forth.

5. Write that you will deduct state and federal taxes as well as worker's compensation and provide a W-2 statement at the year's end.

6. Be sure to include a list of what the nanny's responsibilities are, such as feeding, clothing, reading to, playing with, and transporting the children.

7. List some of your household rules, such as prohibitions on smoking and drinking, emergency procedures, and visitor policy.

8. Provide for a period of probationary or trial employment if you wish so that you get a chance to "try out" the nanny. Indicate whether you will conduct scheduled reviews to discuss her performance and whether you will have a system of performance bonuses.

9. Sign and date the agreement and have the nanny do the same. Give her a copy and keep one for yourself.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are working with an agency, they will most likely provide you with a contract to use.
• Be aware that you are required to withhold taxes for your nanny. You can do this yourself, hire an accountant to do so or purchase special software.

[petsitterteija]

on 8/7/2009 i could never start ANY job without written contract. It's a MUST for nanny or any other job!!

[dcnanny]

on 6/8/2008 Don't forget to outline vacation days - holidays - sick days, etc. Vacation days should be clearly defined if the nanny takes when she wants or she needs to take vacation when family does. If nanny does not accompany family on their vacation, she should be paid regardless. Also include traveling with family. If nanny travels with family, compensation, expectations, what family will cover - room, board, all travel expenses, etc., other than say personal purchases - souveniers, etc. Don't forget an educational stipend. CPR certification, conference attendance, local nanny group or national group membership are great benefits that add to a nannies employment.

on 11/22/2005 Your nanny may be privy to confidential information about your household; many employers request the nanny sign a confidentiality agreement.