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.

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.

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

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

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!

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?