How to Hire a Nanny: A Complete Guide for 2026

What a Nanny Costs in 2026

Get a cost estimate for your zip code with our childcare cost calculator.

Step 1: Define Your Needs

Before posting a job, clarify exactly what you're looking for:

• Schedule: Full-time, part-time, or specific days? Start and end times?
• Duties: Childcare only, or also light housekeeping, cooking, driving kids?
• Live-in or live-out? Live-in nannies cost less but require a private room.
• Start date: When do you need care to begin?
• Special requirements: Multiple languages, infant experience, special needs experience, CPR certification?
• Budget: Know your range including employer taxes (use our nanny tax guide to estimate).

Step 2: Where to Find Candidates

Step 3: Screening & Background Checks

Never skip background checks. A comprehensive check ($30–$100) should include:

• National criminal records search
• Sex offender registry check (all 50 states)
• Driving record (if they'll drive your children)
• Identity verification (SSN trace)
• Reference checks (call at least 3 previous families)
• CPR/First Aid certification verification

Most online platforms offer built-in background check services. Agencies typically include this in their placement fee.

Step 4: The Interview

Start with a 15-minute phone screen, then invite top candidates for an in-person interview (ideally with your children present).

Key Questions to Ask

• What age groups have you worked with, and for how long?
• Describe a typical day with the last family you worked for.
• How do you handle tantrums and discipline?
• What activities do you plan for different age groups?
• How do you handle emergencies? Are you CPR certified?
• What's your approach to screen time?
• How do you communicate with parents throughout the day?
• Why did you leave your last position?
• Are you comfortable with light housekeeping and meal prep?
• What are your salary expectations and PTO needs?

Tip: Schedule a paid trial day ($100–$200) with your top candidate before making a final decision. Observe how they interact with your children in your home.

Step 5: Making an Offer & the Nanny Contract

A written agreement should cover:

• Compensation: Gross hourly or weekly rate, overtime policy, payment schedule
• Schedule: Regular hours, flexibility expectations, guaranteed hours
• Duties: Childcare tasks, household tasks, driving responsibilities
• Paid time off: Vacation days (standard: 5–10), sick days (3–5), holidays
• Benefits: Health insurance stipend, year-end bonus, mileage reimbursement
• Trial period: Typically 2–4 weeks with an easier exit clause
• Termination: Notice period (standard: 2 weeks), severance terms
• Confidentiality: Social media policy, privacy expectations

Step 6: Onboarding & Payroll Setup

• Apply for an EIN at IRS.gov (free, instant)
• Have your nanny complete Form I-9 and W-4
• Register as a household employer with your state
• Set up a payroll service or manual payroll system
• Obtain workers' compensation insurance
• Create a first-day checklist: house tour, emergency contacts, routines, car seat setup, medical info

See our Nanny Taxes & Payroll Guide for detailed payroll setup instructions.

Red Flags to Watch For

• Gaps in references — Legitimate nannies have continuous work history with contactable families.
• Reluctance for background check — A non-negotiable for anyone caring for your children.
• No CPR/First Aid certification — Shows lack of professional commitment (courses take 4 hours).
• Badmouthing former families — A sign of poor professional boundaries.
• Unwillingness to do a trial day — Great candidates welcome the chance to demonstrate their skills.
• Insistence on cash payment — Suggests a desire to avoid taxes, which puts you at legal risk.

Frequently Asked Questions