There's no standard nanny agency fee. It varies by city, agency and type of placement. What matters is knowing exactly what you're paying for, when it's due, and what happens if the match ends early.
Ask each agency to show you the math on a real example: your hours, your pay range, the total fee and the due date.
Agreements differ on the moment you owe the fee. It might be when you make an offer, when the nanny accepts, on the start date, or after a trial period. Many agreements also cover candidates the agency introduced who you hire later, sometimes months later. Know that window before you interview anyone.
Tammy Gold, LCSW, spent years matching families with nannies before writing Secrets of the Nanny Whisperer (Penguin). Today she works beside families, and their agencies, as a neutral expert: defining the job, interviewing candidates, checking references and setting up the first 30 days.
More on reading the agency agreement and the replacement guarantee.
The lowest fee isn't always the better value. Compare what each one actually does: Does a staff member interview candidates in person? Who calls references? Are background checks included? Will they help with onboarding? A fee that includes real screening can cost less than a cheap one that leaves the work to you.
Sometimes. It's reasonable to ask, especially about payment timing or the trial period. Get any change in writing.
In most placements, you are the nanny's employer and pay the nanny directly, often through a household payroll service. Some agencies partner with payroll providers. Ask how it works for yours.
She can walk through what the terms mean in practice and what to ask the agency. She isn't a lawyer, so for legal review of a contract, consult an attorney.
Review agency terms and candidates with a neutral expert. $189 for an hour.
$189
Screening call, reference questions, clinical interview, and trial-day checklist.
Download free ↓Questions first? Text (818) 308-1358 · info@caremapmethod.com
Tammy is not an agency and has no affiliation with, or financial interest in, any agency you use. She provides independent expert guidance; hiring decisions remain your family’s. Legal, tax, and licensing questions belong with the appropriate professional or state agency.