How Do I Negotiate a Contract with My Nanny?

How Do I Negotiate a Contract?

We have all been there- it is MLK Jr Day and the nanny thinks it is a holiday and you have to be at work. What solves this problem? A well written contract!! A nanny contract is essential for a professional, lasting relationship. It reduces misunderstandings and shows respect for the nanny’s role. TLC has guided thousands of families through contracts that cover all the right details without being overwhelming. Then, you can show nanny that MLK Jr Day is a regular work day for her!

Key Elements to Cover in Contract:

• Salary & pay schedule: Hourly vs. salaried, overtime, and whether you’ll use payroll service (TLC recommends families follow legal tax/payroll guidelines).  
• Hours on duty: Typical schedule, flexibility for evenings/weekends, travel days. 
• PTO & holidays: How many vacation days, whether they are fixed or flexible, how sick days are handled, and which holidays are paid. Be specific on the days off that are paid and how the nanny can ask for additional days! 
• Trial period: Usually 2–4 weeks to confirm the fit. 
• Performance reviews: Formal check-ins every 6 months to adjust responsibilities or discuss raises. It is nice to include how this system will work, do you have a form? 
• Travel expectations: Compensation for overnight stays, per diem for food, and travel expenses covered. Privacy outlined for the nanny on a trip. 
• Household rules: Confidentiality, phone use during work hours, guidelines for visitors. This is where you can outline nanny supervising occasional workers. 
• Termination clause: How much notice is expected from either side. Will she be paid for the vacation not used yet? 

TLC Tip (from 40 years of placements): Approach the contract as a partnership agreement — not just a list of demands. The best contracts are clear, fair, and balanced. Families who revisit the agreement regularly (at least annually) tend to have the most stable, long-term placements.