Babysitter question

[Anonymous]

I've lined up two babysitters. I'll be using their services for 2-3 hours once or twice a week (they're both busy with other things so I wanted to keep both on call as appointments, etc. come up). I know there are employment laws regarding domestic worker's pay. Be honest: do I need to do this above the table or is cash okay?

[Anonymous]

It's "casual," so no.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:It's "casual," so no.

...Cash is fine.

[Anonymous]

For such few hours and such, keep it simple and just pay in cash.

I highly doubt the IRS will go after you for this.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:For such few hours and such, keep it simple and just pay in cash.

I highly doubt the IRS will go after you for this.

[Anonymous]

I imagine you are taking little risk in terms of the IRS if you pay in cash, under the table.

The only thing to be very sure of though is that neither you nor your spouse (if applicable) have any kind of security clearance currently (or potentially in the future), or any career aspirations that might require absolutely pristine, legal management of any household staff.

There are occasions when paying under the table like this could jeopardize career opportunities, especially if you're in the DC area.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I imagine you are taking little risk in terms of the IRS if you pay in cash, under the table.

The only thing to be very sure of though is that neither you nor your spouse (if applicable) have any kind of security clearance currently (or potentially in the future), or any career aspirations that might require absolutely pristine, legal management of any household staff.

There are occasions when paying under the table like this could jeopardize career opportunities, especially if you're in the DC area.

For a maximum of six hours a week, you're off base. IRS calls it causal labor, and needn't be taxed.