Frequently Asked Questions

All The Answers For Those Burning Questions

How long does it take to match a family with a nanny?

Each situation is distinct, and the availability and interest of nannies and sitters will vary based on your specific requirements, including the hours and type of care needed. While our primary role is to facilitate the search process and connect you with an excellent match, we cannot guarantee immediate availability. Typically, the search and matching process takes approximately 3 to 5 weeks, although it may extend beyond this timeframe. To maximize your chances of finding the right fit, we recommend initiating your search 6 to 8 weeks in advance of your childcare needs.

Our service may not be suitable for families requiring immediate childcare, as we do not maintain a pool of candidates available for instant placement. Each search is tailored to your family’s unique needs. However, we can accommodate rush searches, on a case-by-case basis, with an applicable rush fee. For further details, please refer to our pricing page. Please note that not all rush searches will result in a successful placement.

How much is your fee?

Thanks for asking! We're happy to share. Check out the 'Pricing' page for full details.

Our goal will always be to remain as affordable as possible, and our price point/payment structure allows us to work with families who are serious and committed to hiring great childcare. Please keep in mind that most Nanny Placement Services/Agencies charge upwards of $2,000 for similar searches.

What are the going rates for childcare?

Childcare rates can vary significantly depending on your location, so it’s essential to have a clear understanding of typical costs when hiring. At Nanny Search LLC, we prioritize partnering with families who are prepared to offer competitive market rates, as this greatly enhances the likelihood of attracting qualified candidates. With that being said, pay rates should always be commensurate with experience. As a former nanny, I firmly believe in the importance of fair compensation for childcare providers. Thank you for your understanding!

Middle School Age Sitter | $12+ per hour
High School Age Sitter | $14+ per hour
Ages 18-20 | $18+ per hour
Ages 20+ | $22+ per hour | Typically offered to candidates with a minimum of two years experience as a nanny and/or those who possess a relevant college degree in Childhood Development or Education.
Career Nannies | $25+ per hour and some form of benefits (yearly increases, paid holidays, sick days, and payment for any regularly scheduled work days that a family chooses not to use help) | Typically seeking payment on the books*

Please note that at Nanny Search LLC, we do not work with candidates under the age of 16. All candidates are required to have a valid driver’s license or government-issued ID.

What if you can't find us a nanny?

If we are unable to find a suitable match for your family by your desired start date and you choose to discontinue our search, you will have only paid your non-refundable deposit and owe us nothing further.

However, please note that we do not stop the search process unless instructed to do so by your family. We strive to provide up to five candidates per search and continue sourcing until we reach this maximum or until you inform us that our services are no longer needed. We ask families to keep us informed throughout the process, especially if there are any changes in details or circumstances.

What if our nanny quits?

Great question! While it can be challenging when a nanny decides to leave, we understand that sometimes life happens. It’s important to be realistic about these situations. Here’s how we can assist you:

If it’s been less than 30 days: We’re here to help! Just let us know what’s going on, and we’ll repost your job and begin the search for new candidates immediately.
If your nanny or sitter quits unexpectedly between 30 and 60 days: We can assist with a new search for an additional finder's fee of $100.
If it’s been more than 60 days: We’re happy to support you again, but we will need to process a new non-refundable deposit and finder's fee. Since a significant amount of time has passed, we will essentially be starting from scratch.

Disclaimer: Nanny Search LLC does not provide binding contracts. A nanny or sitter is free to leave any job, just as your family has the right to terminate a nanny or sitter if things don’t work out. Pennsylvania is an at-will employment state, which means that employers can terminate employees at any time, without cause, as long as they don't violate the law. Employees can also resign at any time, for any reason.

What if we're not satisfied with the nanny we hired?

It's important to remember that interviewing a nanny is different from seeing them in action with your children. Sometimes, candidates may seem ideal but don’t turn out to be the right fit. If you find yourself unhappy with your nanny or babysitter, you have the option to let them go and restart your search. Here’s how we can assist you:

If your nanny has worked for you for 30 days or less: We’re happy to help you conduct a confidential search for a replacement at no additional charge.
If your nanny has worked for you for between 30-60 days: We can assist with a new confidential search for an additional finder's fee of $100.
If it’s been more than 60 days: We’re still here to help, but we will need to process a new non-refundable deposit and finder's fee, as we’ll be starting the search from the beginning.
If you hired an occasional sitter through Nanny Search LLC and only used them once or twice: We’re glad to help you find someone else at no additional charge.

Disclaimer: Please note that Nanny Search LLC does not handle the termination of nannies or sitters; this responsibility lies with the family. There is no binding contract for nannies or sitters obtained through Nanny Search LLC. Pennsylvania is an at-will employment state, which means employers can terminate employees at any time without cause, as long as they comply with the law. Employees can also resign at any time, for any reason.

What are the steps to the search process like?

For detailed information on our match process, please visit the 'Services' page. This service is best designed for families who do not have an urgent need for a caregiver. Typically, the search, screening, and hiring process takes a minimum of three weeks.

Do your services expire?

Yes, they do! Once you hire a nanny or sitter that we matched you with, we step back from the parent/caregiver relationship. However, we’d love to hear from you about how everything is going from time to time!

The finder's fee covers one nanny or sitter. If you require additional caregivers for other roles—such as a full-time nanny and a date-night sitter—you’ll need to book our services again for an additional fee, as this involves searching for different positions and candidates.

If any issues arise with the nanny or sitter you hired through Nanny Search LLC, please consult our other FAQs or contact us immediately for assistance.

Disclaimer: Nanny Search LLC does not provide contracts between families and nannies or babysitters, nor do we negotiate pay rates on behalf of either party. We are not liable for any issues that may arise between families and nannies or babysitters, and we do not handle the termination of caregivers. Furthermore, Nanny Search LLC cannot be held responsible if a nanny or babysitter chooses to leave their position. Pennsylvania is an at-will employment state, which means employers can terminate employees at any time without cause, as long as they comply with the law. Employees can also resign at any time, for any reason.