Hiring a Nanny in Bend, Oregon: A Complete Guide to Laws, Payroll, and Peace of Mind
Bend is known for its laid-back charm, active families, and outdoorsy lifestyle—but when it comes to hiring a nanny, you still need to get everything legally buttoned-up. Whether you're a first-time parent returning to work or a growing family managing multiple kids and schedules, this guide will walk you through what it takes to legally and ethically hire a nanny in Bend, Oregon.
From understanding labor laws and taxes to writing a professional contract and building a respectful working relationship, here’s everything you need to know.
Step 1: Know the Law – Oregon Domestic Worker Rules
In Oregon, nannies are classified as household employees, not independent contractors. That means you, as the employer, are responsible for tax reporting, wage laws, and employment practices under both federal and state law.
Key Legal Guidelines in Bend:
Minimum Wage (Deschutes County): $14.70/hour as of July 2025. However, most nannies in Bend earn $25–$35/hour, depending on experience, duties, and household complexity. More advanced career nannies are typically asking $40+/hr.
Overtime Pay: Required for non-live-in nannies after 40 hours/week, and for live-in nannies after 44 hours/week, paid at 1.5x the regular hourly rate.
Rest Periods: Nannies must receive at least 24 consecutive hours off each week. If they work during that time, they must be paid overtime.
Live-in Caregivers: Must be provided with 8 consecutive hours of rest per 24-hour period and a suitable place to sleep.
Paid Sick Time: Required by law. Nannies earn 1 hour of sick time for every 30 hours worked, up to 40 hours/year. Employers with fewer than 10 employees can provide this unpaid, but it must still be tracked and honored.
Paid Time Off (PTO): Not legally required beyond sick leave, but after one year of employment at 30+ hours/week, nannies are entitled to three paid personal days per year under Oregon law. Offering PTO does keep your position competitive and most nannies will ask for this benefit.
Workers' Compensation Insurance: Not required unless you employ more than one person in your home, but some families choose to provide it voluntarily for added protection.
Step 2: Set Up Legal Payroll (Yes, You Really Have To)
Setting up payroll correctly is one of the most important steps in hiring a nanny. Oregon requires you to comply with both state and federal tax laws.
What You Need to Do:
Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS.
Register with the Oregon Department of Revenue and the Oregon Employment Department.
Complete Form I-9 to verify your nanny is legally allowed to work in the U.S.
Withhold and Pay Taxes, including:
Social Security & Medicare (FICA)
Federal income tax (if requested)
Oregon state income tax
State Unemployment Insurance (SUI)
Provide a W-2 to your nanny by January 31 each year.
File Schedule H with your personal tax return.
Using a nanny payroll service is highly recommended. It takes the guesswork out of filings, payments, and compliance.
Step 3: Write a Clear, Legal Contract
A good nanny contract helps prevent misunderstandings and protects both the family and the caregiver. It should include:
Work schedule and regular hours
Hourly pay, overtime rate, and payment schedule
Duties and responsibilities
Benefits: PTO, sick leave, holidays, health stipends, mileage reimbursement
House rules and expectations
Termination policy and notice period
Step 4: Offer Competitive Benefits
Even though some benefits aren’t legally required, offering them makes a huge difference in attracting and retaining great nannies in Bend.
Paid Vacation: 2 weeks minimum is standard for full-time roles
Paid Holidays: Federal holidays or those mutually agreed upon
Sick Days: 3–5 paid sick days is common (in addition to accrued Oregon sick time)
Health Stipends: Many families offer $100–$300/month toward health expenses
Guaranteed Hours: Ensures your nanny has financial stability, even if you don’t need them all week
Overtime Pay: Always at time-and-a-half, even if your nanny agrees to extra hours
Step 5: Where to Find the Right Nanny in Bend
Finding a great nanny takes more than a Facebook post. Families in Bend often look for caregivers who embrace nature, are CPR certified, and align with gentle parenting values.
That’s where The Natural Nanny Collective comes in. We connect Bend families with experienced, vetted nannies who align with your routines, values, and lifestyle—including those trained in RIE®, Waldorf, Montessori, or Reggio Emilia. Whether you're hiring a full-time nanny, a family assistant, or a travel-ready ROTA nanny, our team supports every step of the process.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a nanny in Bend isn’t just about filling a role—it’s about creating a long-term partnership built on trust, communication, and shared values. With the right knowledge and systems in place, you can provide a legal, respectful, and rewarding employment experience for both your family and your caregiver.
Have questions or ready to start the search? Fill out our family application to get started!
Note: This guide is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal concerns, consult a professional.
