Countless Americans hire someone to help in their house, whether to care for their young children, their older children with special needs, or elderly family members. Even in a down economy, hiring such help remains a necessity for many families—even more so for those who can no longer afford to have one wageearner stay at home, or to pay for an elder to enter an assistedliving center. The book will contain legal and practical advice on: Deciding when it makes financial sense to hire a nanny or caregiver; When you legally become an "employer," and what that means for your tax and other obligation;What to put in a contract, with sample agreements tailored to different caregiving situations, as well as advice on renegotiating contracts if your financial situation changesIssues concerning hiring immigrants (legal or not); Advice on sharing household help with others; Tips and anecdotes from real households. For many readers, hiring child or eldercare will be the first time they've acted in a managerial or employer relationship toward anyone. This book will ease their uncertainties, and help them act responsibly, knowing what the law allows and requires.
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