Employer laid off....asking me to defer paycheck

[Anonymous]

I work for a family and have become close friends with the mother. The father was recently laid off from a commission only job. It doesn't sound like he is getting any unemployment benefits.

The mother has asked if I will keep working for the family taking care of their kids, but defer getting paid until the husband gets a new job. I feel stuck because we have become friends.

How would you respond to this? I feel obligated to help them out, but I also have my own bills to pay.

[Anonymous]

Absolutely no. Does she work? They need to ask family for help, dip into savings, cut back on other expenses, take out a loan.

You have no way of knowing how long it will take him to find a new job.

[Anonymous]

What if he doesn’t get a job for 6 months?

[Anonymous]

Tell her that, unfortunately, you cannot pay your bills if you don’t get paid.

[Anonymous]

If they have no savings, they really can't afford a nanny.

[Anonymous]

No, he is off work and can watch the kids. If they cannot pay, then how are they going to pay later on. Find new job.

[Anonymous]

No. I wouldn't. Totally sucks but you have bills too.

[Anonymous]

How will you pay your bills? Have food? Get gas in your car?

No. Unfortunately start looking for a new position. Hopefully you have something to cover you til you find something

Sorry

[Anonymous]

Tell her NO. You need to get paid and if you don't this, you will never get your money. Say no and tell her immediately.

[Anonymous]

Please do not agree to work like this. Tell her you cannot afford it

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:No, he is off work and can watch the kids. If they cannot pay, then how are they going to pay later on. Find new job.

This.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:No, he is off work and can watch the kids. If they cannot pay, then how are they going to pay later on. Find new job.

This.

If he’s actively trying to find work, no, he can’t tote kids to interviews.

However, the reality is that you can’t work without pay.

[Anonymous]

I am a MB and tell her you CANNOT do that until he gets a new job. Who knows when that could be. That is a ridiculous request to tie to when he gets a new job.
You are friends, which is why she even asked and you're considering it, so tell you can do the amount you can realistically do. However many days or weeks you can do.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:If they have no savings, they really can't afford a nanny.

This too.

[Anonymous]

Have they cut back on other expenses? Sold items no longer needed? I imagine there are other areas they cut back on before expected you to work without pay. If they are unable to come up with money to pay you now, then they will only further behind by the time he is employed again.