Household Employer Getting Started Tips
I-9 form: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9
Have your employee fill this out at time of hiring. You do not submit this to anyone, just keep it safe for your records in case you are ever audited.
W4 form: https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw4.pdf
Have your employee fill this out at time of hiring. The W4 information, such as the filing status and number of dependents, can be entered into the employee’s profile. You do not submit this form to anyone, just keep it safe for your records.
Ensure you have Worker’s Compensation insurance, in case your employee gets sick or injured on the job. You may already be covered through your homeowner’s or renter’s policy. New York and Washington residents get coverage in a different way.
Having a contract reduces awkwardness and misunderstandings, especially as things come up you just didn’t anticipate. If you don’t have a contract with your employee, you can download this one and modify for your situation. This one is for a nanny, but you can easily change out the role of the employee, such as for a housekeeper or caregiver, making it work for you.
Additionally, Hand In Hand, a non-profit that supports domestic employers + employees, is a great resource. Take advantage of their excellent and free sample contracts and guide books.