If you have young children and are looking to hire a nanny, you should also consider having a nanny contract prepared and ready to go. Even if your nanny is going to be someone paid under the table and not from a professional service, it is best to have a contract. This tells the nanny exactly what you want, what is and is not allowed, and what, if any, disciplinary action will be taken for not following rules.
* Start Date
This is the date the nanny starts working. This is great for tax time and if there is to be any unemployment at the end of the term.
* Term/Date Range
If this is a temporary service, the end date should be listed as well. There can be a clause that states the end date may change, if needed.
* Pay
List the amount of pay that you both deem appropriate. This saves both the family and the nanny from misunderstandings when the paycheck is handed out. Also list the frequency of pay, whether it is weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly.
* Hours
List the amount of hours the nanny will be expected to work each week. If extra hours could be needed, list the amount to be paid for any extra hours worked. If the nanny is needed on holidays, you may choose to list holiday pay as per your state requirements.
* Taxes
State how taxes will be handled. Many choose to use a 1099, which means the family does nothing with the taxes and pays the full amount. At the end of the year, the nanny will file her taxes using the 1099 form you give her. However, if you have an accountant or are able to do so, you may choose to figure taxes with each paycheck.
* Benefits
List any benefits the nanny will receive. This can include paid time off, sick days, health, dental, and/or vision insurance. Benefits are generally left up to the family, and it is a good idea to map out all benefits given and what are not included, to give the nanny ample warning.
* Room and Board
If the nanny is a live-in, you may add clauses that state what is and is not included. Typically, a room to sleep and food are included.
* Allowances
If the nanny is dropping off/picking up children from school or activities, you may include allowances for gasoline and snacks.
* Wardrobe
If a uniform is required, you should state what the uniform requires. For example, if you want the nanny to wear a white polo shirt, tan skirt, and shoes that cover the feet completely, state this. It should also be mentioned who pays for the uniform. If the nanny is required to purchase clothing specifically for the job, this should be noted. If there are any reimbursements, this should also be noted.
* What Should Not Be Done.
Many families also have an area of what a nanny cannot do. For example, you may state that the nanny is not to have company while during working hours. You may have strict rules about television and movies, and this is a great time to add those.
* Extras
Many families prefer to list extra things that their nanny is allowed. For example, you may choose to give a gym membership or something else not mentioned above.
* What will happen if a rule is broken.
Many families also choose to have a disciplinary area. List disciplinary steps that will be taken if something is done incorrectly.
By having a nanny contract, you ensure your family's safety and the safety of the nanny. Everything is laid out and there will be no questions or misunderstandings.