should I ask for a contract?

Question

I recently started a job as a nanny/sitter. It is full-time and my only source of income. Should I ask them to sign a contract? I'm a little nervous not working for a company or school district. They seem very reliable and come recommended by a previous nanny who retired, but I worry that they will decide that the mom will quit work or they will ask a grandmother to watch the kids, or any nimber of things that could happen. I did not go through a nanny agency, my college helped me find them. Any advice? If I do decide to have them sign a contract what should be in it? Any idea where I could find a standard one if there is such a thing? Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

Well, you're free to create a contract but of course, this may simply lead to the parents deciding to hire another nanny, so weigh your options carefully. It is not unreasonable for a mother who decides to stay at home to decide she does not need a nanny to help, so I'd expect a contract wouldn't help much since a smart parent would include an "out" clause in the contract.

As for advice on how to draw one up, you could probably search the web for samples, or peruse a local bookstore for books with contracts in them. Your safest bet is, of course, a lawyer, who could create a rock-solid contract for you that covers all your needs. Be prepared for the parents to take it to their lawyer for revision if they're smart.

Be very careful with a contract, though. You may end up causing yourself to be classifiable as self-employed, and you may become subject to self-emplyment taxes - federal, state, and local depending on your state, county, and town - over and above typical income tax you would owe. Granted, the likelihood of discovery is not high, so you may be fine.....

Answer 2

I would you are taking care of kids oh yeah

Answer 3

yes ask them to sign one it is watching out for your own *** and they should understand