Do I need an EIN to pay a nanny?
Updated November 6, 2026 · For 2026 · General information, not tax or legal advice
Yes. An employer identification number (EIN) is required on your nanny's W-2, on Schedule H, and on your state unemployment registration. Your Social Security number will not work.
How to get one
Apply online at IRS.gov between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. Eastern. It is free; ignore sites that charge for it. Choose "household employer" as the reason, enter your name and address, and the number is issued on screen. Save the confirmation letter (CP 575) as a PDF; you will need it for state registrations.
Pick the person whose return will carry Schedule H as the "responsible party." For a married couple filing jointly it does not matter which spouse.
What to do next
- Register for state unemployment tax with your state's workforce or revenue agency. Each state guide has the link and the threshold.
- File the new-hire report with your state within the deadline (often 20 days, some states fewer).
- Have your nanny complete Form I-9 within three business days of starting, and a W-4 if they want federal income tax withheld. Keep both in your files; do not mail them anywhere.
- Set up payroll. Decide the pay period, the rate, overtime and any guaranteed hours, and start withholding 7.65% from the first paycheck.
If you already had an EIN
An EIN from a prior nanny or a sole proprietorship can be reused for household employment. Do not apply for a second one; the IRS issues one per responsible party per day and duplicates cause filing confusion.
CareTab's onboarding walks through these steps for your state and sets reminders for the registrations. Start with the calculator to see the paycheck first.
Frequently asked
Can I use my Social Security number instead of an EIN?
No. The W-2 and state unemployment registration require an EIN. Using your SSN on forms your nanny receives also exposes it unnecessarily.
Does getting an EIN make me a business?
No. A household employer EIN is just an identifier. You still file nanny taxes on Schedule H with your personal return, not a business return.
How long does it take?
Online at IRS.gov, the number is issued immediately during the session. Mail or fax takes weeks.
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