Nanny stands up for herself after client offers $4,000 less than her usual pay

Nannies are essential for working parents, stepping in to manage childcare so parents can focus on their careers. Yet, many nannies face unfair treatment and inadequate compensation. That is exactly what happened with Sophia—who goes by @lifeofsophiag on TikTok—when a client asked her to charge $4,000 less than her usual rate. While talking with the client, Sophia decided to share her rates first so everything was clear. However, things worsened when the mom offering her employment shifted her tone. Sophia shared a series of texts exchanged between her and her client on TikTok.

The nanny began, "I had already sent my resume, which includes my rate range, references, duties, etc. — literally everything." The client told her they'd like to meet and discuss everything. Sophia replied, "That sounds great! I always like to send my rate and expectations beforehand to make sure it works for the family. My hourly rate begins at $30/hr. My rates reflect the effort and skills I have developed throughout my career as well as the high quality of care I provide. In addition to the standard industry benefits, I also require payment through W-2 with my family since I will be an employee. If all this sounds good, I look forward to speaking further with you!"

However, the client seemed unwilling to pay her that much and offered a much lower pay. "As far as the hourly goes—we were really hoping to stay under $1,000/month. I know that the regular schedule is 7-5, which could turn out to be a lot of long hours, but when we chatted, I know I mentioned we will be gone for 2 weeks in November so you'll still get your $1,000 that month. I think that's a really great deal, honestly!" the mom wrote back. The nanny explained that the rate the client was offering was much lower than what she usually charged. She expressed that it would bring her hourly compensation down to $6.25, which was minimum wage.

Furthermore, 1099 for nannies was illegal as they are not self-employed and would end up paying employer taxes on their behalf. The client responded that a thousand dollars would not be hourly, as it would be a salary. She also pointed out that Sophia was getting offers with so many benefits from anywhere as people in their area barely make that much themselves. She added, "That seems quite tedious for such an easy job." They weren't happy with the things the nanny demanded, so she asked to recommend her friends who would want the position. 

Sophia wrote that she understood their position and that they might want to look at someone who was just starting out or a young babysitter. However, she was unsure if anyone would work below minimum wage. She ended with a "Best of luck to you as well." The mom went as far as to say that she and her husband get all those benefits, but they work "very demanding jobs." She asked, "Why do you believe you're entitled to such benefits and such high pay? I know you're experienced and seem very knowledgeable, but this is not a career." 

Sophia explained that nannying was indeed a full-time career that requires a lot of knowledge and work. It isn't a side gig and also not suitable for everyone. She expressed that she wouldn't ask anyone to work at minimum wage. The woman shared, "I would not be recommending anyone as it would be recommending an illegal job in bad faith." The client answered with a laughing emoji, "This is ridiculous, I watch my kids on top of work a real job, lol. We don't need someone 'professional' because this job isn't 'professional.' My neighbor's 16-year-old has already agreed to this job and is all set to work. Thanks for all your recommendations, though!"

People took to the comments to support the nanny. @grlm55127 wrote, "Awe, how cute! She works and looks after the kids she decided to have! Good for you setting boundaries. This is ridiculous!" @april5661 commented, "I would have agreed to it as a young teenager with NO BILLS too." @michellemitchell001 remarked, "People are insane. Nannies are a luxury."

You can follow Sophia (@lifeofsophiag) on TikTok for more nanny lifestyle content.