How to Budget for a Nanny or Household Employee
A Professional Financial Planning Guide for Families
Why Budgeting Matters
Hiring a nanny or household employee is not simply a childcare decision — it is a legal employment relationship and a long‑term financial commitment.
Families who plan accurately experience smoother employment relationships, stronger retention, and fewer legal or tax surprises.
Understanding Household Employment
Nannies, family assistants, household managers, and estate staff are legally classified as household employees, not independent contractors.
This classification requires compliance with wage laws, payroll taxes, and federal and state labor standards.
What Makes Up the True Cost
- Base pay and guaranteed hours
- Employer payroll taxes (typically 8–12%)
- Overtime and schedule variability
- Paid time off
- Payroll administration
Estimate Your Household Employment Costs
Connecting Budget to Role Expectations
Budgeting is most effective when paired with a clear understanding of role scope and responsibilities.
Families often benefit from reviewing how professional nanny, family assistant, and household manager roles are typically structured — including boundaries, expectations, and areas of responsibility.
When Additional Guidance Is Helpful
Some families feel confident after reviewing this information. Others find it helpful to talk through their household needs, role expectations, and budget considerations with an experienced recruiter.
Taking time to ask questions and clarify next steps can prevent mismatches and support long‑term success.
Frequently Asked Questions About Budgeting for Household Support
Is this budget calculator a quote or a commitment?
No. This calculator is a planning tool designed to help families estimate the true cost of household employment. It is not a quote, contract, or commitment to hire.
Does this include payroll taxes and employer responsibilities?
Yes. The estimate includes a general range for employer payroll taxes, which typically fall between 8–12%, depending on location and circumstances. Exact requirements vary by state and household.
Why can’t I just pay a nanny as an independent contractor?
Under U.S. labor law, nannies and household staff are classified as household employees, not independent contractors. Misclassification can lead to tax penalties, back pay, and legal risk. Professional payroll setup helps families stay compliant.
Does this budget apply to all types of household support?
The calculator provides a baseline estimate for household employment costs. Actual budgets may vary depending on the role — such as a nanny, family assistant, or household manager — as responsibilities, schedules, and compensation structures differ.
I’m not sure what type of support my household needs yet — what should I do?
Many families feel this way. Some prefer to start with a short assessment to clarify which type of household support fits their needs. Others choose to talk through their situation with a recruiter for personalized guidance. Both options are designed to provide clarity before making decisions.
Do I need to budget differently for part‑time or full‑time help?
Yes. Guaranteed hours, overtime eligibility, and benefits often differ between part‑time and full‑time roles. Budgeting accurately requires understanding both the schedule and the scope of responsibilities.
What costs are not included in this estimate?
This estimate does not include bonuses, raises, travel pay, health insurance contributions, workers’ compensation variations, or unexpected overtime. These may apply depending on your household and location.
Is this information only for families ready to hire now?
No. Many families use this guide early in the planning process to understand what professional household employment involves. Budgeting ahead can make future decisions smoother and more confident.
Can someone help me review this information for my specific situation?
Yes. Some families choose to speak with a recruiter to review role expectations, responsibilities, and budget considerations together. This optional assessment call is intended to provide guidance, not pressure.
Not Sure What Type of Support You Need?
This short assessment helps families clarify whether a nanny, family assistant, or household manager is the right fit — based on how your household functions day‑to‑day.
It’s a planning tool, not a commitment.
Get Personalized Hiring Guidance
Some families prefer to talk through their needs with a recruiter. This optional assessment call includes a review of typical roles and responsibilities, along with guidance on structure, expectations, and next steps.
Designed to provide clarity — not pressure.