Nanny bonus for nanny who worked portion of the year

[Anonymous]

We plan on giving our nanny a bonus (1-2 weeks pay) as she has been wonderful. She started with us in October, so is the full amount still expected? Or is it okay to prorate it? I don't know if her previous employer gave her a bonus when she let her go (I assume so because they had a long positive relationship - the only parted because her kids went to school), but I can't be sure. I could email the previous employer and ask, although that is probably inappropriate. Thoughts?

[Anonymous]

MB here. I wouldn't assume the previous employer gave a bonus and I wouldn't ask. I think some pro-rating would be ok, mabye equivalent to 50-75% of a week's pay? But if you can afford it and are really happy with her, do a week!

[Anonymous]

I would give a 25% bonus based off one week. Do not ask someone if they gave a bonus. Totally inappropriate.

[Anonymous]

If you state you are going to give your
nanny one to two weeks pay, why are
you asking if you should prorate?

[Anonymous]

I would prorate. She has only been with you a quarter of the year so 25% of a week's salary sounds right.

Of course, a bonus is a bonus for work well done and you can give her any amount you want.

[Anonymous]

I wouldn't e-mail the previous employer...That would be extremely out of line for you as her new employer.

Talking money issues is just nobody's business really.