Am I A Domestic Employer?
Hand in Hand considers you a domestic employer if there is a paid worker in your home, working full-time or part-time (even once a week or once a month—any period of time counts), cleaning, cooking, assisting, or caring for members of the household.
A domestic worker is any person who works in someone else’s home (including those compensated with government subsidies or working through an agency). Domestic workers include nannies/childcare providers, housecleaners, cooks, and home attendants who support seniors and people with disabilities.
These are not legal definitions, though, and each state may have a definition that could affect your legal responsibilities. We advocate for policies that protect domestic workers, but also encourage all of us to consider the laws a “floor” and to aim higher in our own homes.
We welcome you whether you pay directly, receive subsidies, use agencies, or all of the above. All employers are responsible for some aspects of the employment relationship; we’re here to help you find your way!
LEGAL DISCLAIMER: The answers you find here are intended to serve as suggested best practices for domestic employment, and have been crafted by Hand in Hand with the National Domestic Workers Alliance. They are designed to help you take steps toward creating a mutually beneficial domestic employment relationship—and help set a framework for conversations with the domestic worker(s) you employ. Please understand that these suggested best practices may differ based on the particular domestic employment relationship and that these possible best practices do not constitute legal advice.
