If you're hiring a nanny, senior caregiver, or other household employee, you're not just providing a paycheck; you’re also responsible for certain tax withholdings. In 2026, if you pay a household employee more than $3,000, you're required to withhold Social Security and Medicare taxes (FICA) from their wages.

Topics: caregiver payroll, nanny, nanny payroll, nanny tax, senior, CPA, homework solutions, household employer taxes, 2026 W-4 form, household employee withholding, IRS tax forms, how to fill out a w-4 form, 2026 tax updates, W-4 form

Whether you're employing a nanny, senior caregiver, or housekeeper, understanding when your employee is on the clock—and legally entitled to be paid—is an essential part of running a compliant household payroll.

Topics: nanny, nanny payroll, household payroll, agency, senior, CPA, household employment, senior care payroll, Domestic Workers, Compensable Time, Live-In Employee Laws, Household Employer Guide

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.

Topics: nanny, nanny payroll, summer nanny, nanny work agreement, temporary nanny, agency, hiring a summer nanny, summer childcare

Tax season can be stressful, especially if you end up owing more than expected. Many nannies and other household employees find themselves with a surprise tax bill, often because of how income tax withholding is handled throughout the year.

Topics: nanny share, nanny agency, nanny, nanny payroll, homework solutions, W-4 mistakes, nanny share taxes

Feeling like there’s never enough time in the day? You’re not alone. Between work, family, and everything else on your plate, managing your household’s payroll and taxes can feel overwhelming. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to do it all yourself.

Topics: household employee taxes, caregiver payroll, nanny, nanny payroll, nanny background screening, agency, senior, outsource household payroll, stress-free payroll solutions

At HomeWork Solutions, we know that managing taxes can be confusing, especially when you're working as a nanny or caregiver. You might be tempted to try to simplify things by claiming "exempt" on your W-4 tax withholding form, thinking that it will allow you to keep more of your paycheck. However, this decision can lead to serious financial and legal consequences down the road.

Topics: caregiver payroll, household employee, nanny payroll, nanny taxes, household payroll, homework solutions

When you hire a new household employee, it's important to handle the process carefully and thoroughly. Whether you're welcoming a nanny, a senior caregiver, or a household chef, understanding the key steps can help ensure a smooth integration into your home and family life. Here are several essential considerations to remember as you begin this important journey.

Topics: household employee taxes, caregiver payroll, household staffing agency, household employee, hiring a nanny, nanny employment practices, nanny payroll, nanny payroll tax, nannies, nanny tax, nanny employee, domestic employer legal responsibilities, household payroll, Hiring Elder care, hiring care for seniors, domestic worker, caregiver management

After hiring a nanny or senior caregiver, families often turn to Certified Public Accountants or other tax preparers with questions about what to do next. “How do I handle payroll,” and “Do I have to pay taxes,” are common questions.

Topics: caregiver payroll, accountants, nanny payroll

If you recently hired a household employee, you know that you have employment tax obligations. One of those is to pay Federal and State Unemployment Insurance tax. This benefit program is confusing to most, so here we will break down some essential things to know about it.

Topics: nanny w-2 form, household employee taxes, nanny undocumented, nanny unemployment insurance, nanny payroll, nanny benefits, W-4, pandemic

Life is busy, and sometimes hiring household employees to help around the house is a necessity. If you are considering hiring a nanny, house cleaners, senior caregiver, personal chef, or some other type of experienced domestic employee, there are a few things to keep in mind. 

Topics: housekeeper, nanny agency, hiring a nanny, nanny payroll, caregiver background screening, caregiver, senior home caregiver, domestic worker, agency, what to expect