The short answer: ask early, ask kindly, and come ready with facts and a solution. Most families aren't trying to cut corners. They just don't know that hiring a nanny makes them a household employer, with payroll and tax responsibilities that come with it.

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It usually starts with the best of intentions.

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You found her. She's wonderful. The baby lights up every time she walks in the door.

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Once you hire a household employee, you take on a new role: household employer.

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