As summer approaches, families are busy planning vacations, summer camps, and activities to keep the kids engaged while school’s out. But what about the weeks that aren’t filled with structured programs — or when your family prefers a day with more flexibility, individual attention, or a break from the large-group setting? For many families, hiring a summer nanny is the perfect way to ensure consistent, personalized care.
If you're thinking about hiring a summer nanny this year, there are a few key things to keep in mind — especially when it comes to payroll, taxes, and setting expectations for the role.
What Is a Summer Nanny?
A summer nanny is typically a temporary, full-time or part-time caregiver hired to work during the summer months. They’re often college students, teachers on break, or experienced caregivers looking for short-term work. This isn’t occasional babysitting — summer nannies provide consistent, day-to-day care, sometimes including transportation, planning outings, preparing meals for the children, or helping prevent that summer slide with educational activities.
Yes, You Need to Pay Summer Nanny Taxes
Even if your nanny is only with you for several weeks, you become a household employer the moment they start working in your home — and that comes with payroll tax responsibilities.
- If you pay them $2,800 or more in 2025, you’re required to withhold and pay Social Security and Medicare (FICA) taxes — 7.65% from your nanny, and 7.65% from you as the employer.
- If you pay an employee more than $600, or if taxes are withheld or paid on the employee's behalf, you must issue a Form W-2 in January and file appropriate year-end forms with the IRS and state tax authorities.
- If you pay them as little as $750 (depending on your state) You are required to pay federal and state unemployment taxes (FUTA/SUTA) — typically around 2% - 4%, depending on your state.
Some families think they can skip this because it’s “just for the summer,” but failing to pay legally can lead to IRS audits, back taxes, and penalties. And equally important: paying your nanny legally gives them access to benefits like Social Security, unemployment insurance, and verifiable income.
Need help setting up payroll? That’s exactly what we do at HomeWork Solutions — we handle tax account registrations, withholdings, and payroll tax filings, so you can enjoy summer, tax-stress free.
Create a Written Work Agreement
Even for short-term roles, a written agreement sets the tone for a successful working relationship. We recommend including:
- Start and end dates
- Weekly schedule and hours
- Pay rate (including overtime when applicable)
- Job responsibilities (driving, meal prep, tidying up after activities, etc.)
- Expectations for vacations or time off
- Any benefits or reimbursements (mileage, outings, etc.)
This not only keeps both parties on the same page but also helps avoid misunderstandings later on.
Pro Tip: If your nanny will be joining you on vacation or caring for your kids at the beach or pool, make sure they’re comfortable with swimming, CPR-certified, and clear on expectations for those environments.
When to Start Hiring? The Sooner, the Better
The best summer nannies get booked early — many start searching in April or May. If you haven’t hired yet, don’t panic, but move quickly.
Look for candidates with:
- Prior childcare experience (nannying, teaching, camp counseling)
- CPR/First Aid certification
- Strong communication skills
- A valid driver’s license (if they’ll be transporting your children)
Reach out to local nanny placement agencies, parenting groups, and college job boards. Always conduct interviews, reference checks, and background checks, even for a short-term hire. Nanny agencies will take care of these screening steps for you as part of their service.
Make Payroll Simple (We’ll Help)
If you’re thinking, “This sounds like a lot,” we get it — managing payroll and taxes can be overwhelming. That’s where HomeWork Solutions comes in.
For over 30 years, we’ve helped busy families pay their nannies legally and easily, whether it’s for the summer or the long haul. We handle every step — from tax registrations and paystub creation to filings and W-2s. Our service plan options are designed to fit your needs, even for seasonal employment.
Need help setting up summer nanny payroll? Call us at (800) 626-4829 or schedule a free consultation here — we’ll walk you through it with no pressure.
Final Thoughts
A summer nanny can bring peace of mind, structure, and fun to your family’s summer. When you pay legally, everyone benefits — your nanny builds their work history and future benefits, and you stay compliant with tax laws.
Let us handle the paperwork, so you can enjoy your summer.