Nanny Contract Helpful Tips
1. Basic employment information
Start Date and Location
Clearly state the date the employment begins and the worksite address.
Parties Involved
Include the legal names, addresses, and contact information for both the employing family and the nanny.
Number of Children and their Information
List the number of children under the nanny's care and their legal names.
Employment Term
Specify the employment period, whether it has a set conclusion date or is open-ended.
2. Work schedule
Hours and Days
Define the nanny's work schedule, including specific start and end times for each day of the week.
Total Weekly Hours
State the total number of hours the nanny is expected to work per week.
Overtime
Clearly outline how and when overtime will be paid, adhering to federal and state regulations, which often require time-and-a-half for hours worked over 40 in a seven-day workweek.
Flexibility & Overnights
Address expectations for working outside regular hours, such as overnights or weekends if parents are away.
3. Compensation and benefits
Wages
State the nanny's gross hourly rate of pay and overtime rate. If a total weekly compensation is preferred, specify that based on the standard workweek.
Payment Schedule & Method
Define how frequently the nanny will be paid (e.g., weekly, bi-weekly) and the payment method (e.g., direct deposit, check).
Taxes and Withholding
Indicate that taxes will be withheld and that the family will be responsible for providing a W-2 at year-end. Specify that the nanny's share of FICA taxes (Social Security and Medicare) will be withheld from their pay. While withholding income tax is optional, it's recommended to prevent the nanny from facing a large tax burden at year-end.
Paid Time Off (PTO)
Clearly outline vacation time (e.g., two weeks per year), sick leave, and paid holidays. Specify whether the family or the nanny chooses the vacation dates and any stipulations for using these benefits. For example, a clause regarding sick leave accrual and usage can be included.
Health Benefits
Detail any health benefits provided, including health insurance, a health reimbursement account, or a stipend for health care costs.
Additional Benefits
Include any other agreed-upon benefits, such as a cell phone stipend, transportation/parking reimbursements, gym memberships, dental cleanings, or contributions to a retirement plan.
Reimbursements
Specify if and how mileage driven for work or other job-related expenses will be reimbursed.
Room and Board
If the nanny is live-in, outline the specifics of living quarters, including meal arrangements, privacy considerations, and any included amenities (e.g., separate telephone line, food stipend, appliances).
4. Job responsibilities
Childcare Duties
Detail the nanny's childcare responsibilities, including a meal and nap schedule, specific activities, and the nanny's primary role in caring for the children.
Additional Duties
Specify any duties beyond childcare, such as light housekeeping, preparing meals for the children, running errands, caring for pets, or doing laundry.
5. Confidentiality clause
Privacy Protection
Include a clause ensuring the confidentiality of the family's personal information, including financial details, family affairs, location or schedule, or any information gained during employment.  The clause should also explicitly prohibit sharing information or photos on social media without explicit consent.
6. House rules
Household Guidelines
Detail any specific household guidelines or rules the nanny is expected to follow.
7. Transportation
Driving Responsibilities
If the nanny will be driving the children, include clauses addressing driving responsibilities, proof of a valid driver's license, and insurance requirements.
8. Nanny cameras
Camera Usage
If nanny cameras are used in the home, a clause acknowledging their presence and usage can be included for clarity.
9. Performance reviews
Review Process
Specify whether performance reviews will be conducted and how frequently.
10. Termination policy
Termination Procedures
Outline the procedures for termination by either party, including required notice periods, except in cases of immediate termination for cause.
Grounds for Immediate Termination
List specific grounds for immediate termination without notice, such as compromising a child's safety, consistent non-performance of duties, dishonesty, theft, or misuse of property.
11. Amending the contract
Modification Clause
Include a clause detailing how the contract can be amended or modified, emphasizing the need for written agreement and signatures from both parties.
12. Legal considerations
Legal Compliance
Ensure the contract complies with all applicable federal, state, and local labor laws, including minimum wage, overtime, and domestic worker rights. Consulting with a legal expert, such as Rocket Lawyer, can help ensure legal compliance.
This structured approach, including robust benefit provisions, ensures a clear and professional working relationship between the family and nanny. Remember to customize the template to fit your specific needs and situation