While having a good nanny contract is important, it’s not the only tool needed for successful nanny care. Toward that end, we recommend the following services and products:
Finding a nanny:
One of the best ways to ensure a successful employment relationship, is to hire the right nanny. First search for a reputable local organization that places nannies in your area. If your search comes up short, we recommend using SitterCity, Nannies4Hire, Care.com, and Get Nanny Jobs.
Background Search:
Without exception, a background check should be done before a nanny is hired. However, before beginning the process of conducting a background search, know that the Fair Credit Reporting Act requires you to get your nanny’s permission before performing a search. To learn more click here. After you have complied with the necessary federal laws follow these easy steps:
First, contact a nanny’s prior employers and ask them about the quality of his or her work.
Second, do a simple Internet search, looking for good and bad information that may come up on social networking sites, etc.
Third, search public records, including criminal records. To do so, we recommend using Intelius or PeopleFinders, public records businesses with a stellar ratings with the BBB and competitive prices.
Legal Help:
An attorney may be needed to answer questions about legal issues that arise with the nanny’s employment.
To find an attorney, we recommend asking friends and work colleagues for a referral of an attorney with experience in employment law. We also recommend calling your city or county bar association, which most likely has a referral service.
Lastly, we recommend using LegalMatch, an online business with an extensive network of attorneys throughout the United States.
Tax/ Accounting Help:
One of the largest risks of having a nanny is paying the proper taxes.
If you have an accountant, ask if they can provide tax and payroll assistance.
If your accountant lacks experience with nannies or cannot provide payroll assistance, we recommend using the Nanny Tax Company or NannyPay, payroll software by Essentia.
Additional Reading:
If you’d like additional reading material, we recommend the following books (by clicking on the link, you will be taken to the appropriate purchasing page on amazon.com):
Nannies for Modern Moms: The Essential Guide for Hiring the Right Nanny for Your Child and You
Oh My, Au Pair!: A Complete Guide to Hiring and Hosting an Au Pair
Disclosure: We are a professional site that will receive compensation from some of the companies above. We test each product and service thoroughly and recommend only the very best. We are independently owned and the opinions expressed here are our own.