ROTA Nannies and Live-In Positions

A rotational nanny (ROTA nanny) is a live-in nanny who provides care for a pre-determined amount of time – usually one-to-two-weeks – before having a non-working day. When that time is up, the nanny gets an extended period of time off, usually at least 7 days. Rather than the family going without a nanny during that time, another ROTA nanny takes over in their absence. These two nannies each live in the home during the time they’re working and will switch off on that rotating system.

Of course, each family has different needs, so there can be variations to the schedule, or details of these rotational positions. For example, sometimes a ROTA nanny will work 12 days, while another nanny comes in to handle the next 12 days.

Why hire ROTA nannies?

Families that can benefit from a ROTA nanny are those that need continuous childcare for their children. This type of position is often requested by particularly busy families, or those who travel between multiple households or locations. Having a nanny team to help keep the children’s schedules consistent, and the children engaged and active while they grow and learn is a huge benefit!

Things to keep in mind:
Live-in nannies, including ROTA nannies, are domestic employees that either live on the premises as their sole residence, or live there for extended periods. Under the law, an extended period of time is when the nanny lives, works and sleeps on the employer’s premises for five days a week (120 hours or more). These parameters are set out in the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Under this act, the employee must be paid all hours worked, and overtime at time and a half of the regular pay, for all hours over 40 in a work week, unless they are subject to exemption. Details on exemptions are explained more here. State laws may also require daily overtime, in addition to federal weekly overtime, or may set their own exemptions.

As with all household employment positions, ROTA positions should always be well defined in a written work agreement that is signed by all parties. This agreement outlines the employee’s work schedule, duties of the position, wage and tax information, benefits, and separation terms.

And last, be sure to pay your ROTA nannies on the books. As an employer, you are required to pay them accurately and withhold all proper taxes from their paychecks. You will also have employer taxes that need to be remitted to state and federal authorities as well. Unsure of where you should start regarding legal pay? Contact us today at 1-800-626 4829 or info@homeworksolutions.com to take the right steps toward paying your nanny the right way.