California rules that apply to you
In most placements, you, not the agency, are the nanny’s employer. That makes the household-employment rules your responsibility.
Minimum wage. California’s minimum wage is $16.90 an hour in 2026. Experienced nannies typically earn well above it; it’s the legal floor, not the market rate. Check the current state rate each January.
California overtime depends on the job. Under California’s Domestic Worker Bill of Rights, a nanny who spends at least 80% of her time caring for children counts as a “personal attendant” and earns overtime after 9 hours in a day or 45 in a week. A nanny with more housework falls under a different wage order, with overtime after 8 hours a day or 40 a week for live-out workers. That’s one reason to keep the job description honest.
Paid sick leave. California’s paid sick leave law accrues at least 1 hour for every 30 hours worked.
No flat salary without hours. Because overtime applies, track hours and write an hourly rate into your agreement, even if you think of pay weekly.
Pay, tax and labor rules vary by state and city. This guide explains common practice; a household payroll provider, accountant or your state labor department can confirm what applies to you.
