Frequently Asked Questions

The following are answers to some of the questions we hear most often from prospective clients.  If you don’t find the answers you’re looking for, we’ll be glad to respond to your questions by email or phone.  We are happy to provide all the information you need to feel comfortable using our placement services.

Why should I choose 5 Star Nannies to locate a nanny or housekeeper for my family?
Our clients tell us they particularly appreciate the quality of the candidates and the peace of mind our services provide.  We will save you valuable time by evaluating all appropriate candidates and sending you only those who match your specific requirements.  Most importantly, we carefully pre-screen and interview all prospective candidates, so you can feel secure knowing that the person you hire to care for your child or home has passed our rigorous background checks.

How long does it take to find and hire a suitable candidate?
We’ll get started on your search right away, but it’s hard to say exactly how long it will take.  Every job is different, and some families have special needs or preferences that require more time. 

When should I start the search process?
You should begin your search as soon as possible – preferably 30 to 60 days before you need the candidate to begin working.  Since most candidates are looking for immediate positions, they can usually start to work as soon as you make a hiring decision.

What if I choose not to employ any of the candidates you refer?  Do I still have to pay a fee?
Except for the non-refundable application fee you pay to start the search, there will be no other charges.  The placement fee is payable only if you elect to employ a candidate referred to you by 5 Star Nannies, Inc.

Who determines the candidate’s salary?
Although salary is agreed upon by the employer and the candidate at the time of hiring, we will be glad to offer guidance based on location, needs, and the candidate’s level of experience.  The employee’s salary is paid directly by the employer.

Do I have to pay taxes on the salary of the person I hire?    
5 Star Nannies, Inc. does not offer any tax advice.  You should contact your accountant for information on payroll taxes for household employers.

How will you decide whether a candidate is the right fit for my household position?
We will spend a significant amount of time reviewing each candidate’s qualifications and matching them to your requirements.  Although we’ll evaluate a lot of applications, only a select few – the best qualified and appropriate candidates – will be considered for your position.  Then, it’s up to you to decide whether a candidate will be the right fit for your position and with your family.

When do interviews take place?
For each candidate in which you have expressed interest, we’ll arrange a telephone interview.  Then, if desired, we will schedule a face-to-face meeting between the candidate and your family.

When are we required to pay your placement fee?
The placement fee is due and payable once you have elected to employ a 5 Star Nannies, Inc. candidate.  The fee must be paid before the chosen candidate begins work in your household. 

What if the selected candidate doesn’t work out for our family and needs to be replaced?
Under our replacement guarantee, we will replace a candidate for up to 90 days from the date of employment, at no additional charge, as specified in our placement contract.

Do you keep clients’ personal information confidential?
5 Star Nannies, Inc. does not sell or otherwise provide our databases to anyone.  All information is kept strictly confidential, and our website is fully protected and secure.