The Nanny’s Car: Primary Transportation to and from Work

Some employers expect their nanny to arrive in a reliable car, one that won’t leave her stranded on the way to work, especially on days when both parents have urgent commitments or important meetings.

In many cases, parents also rely on the nanny’s vehicle for transporting their children to and from school, doctor’s appointments, extracurricular activities, the park, libraries, and other outings. While most families offer a stipend to cover fuel and mileage, the common rate of $50 per week is rarely enough to cover the true cost of using a personal car for work.

The Reality of Using a Personal Vehicle for Work

Using a car for nanny duties causes more wear and tear than standard commuting. Even with a gas and mileage stipend, the nanny still faces higher maintenance, faster depreciation, and the long-term expense of eventual replacement.

Additionally, once one or two car seats are installed, the nanny’s back seat is no longer available for her own children or personal use. Installing and removing car seats is physically demanding, time-consuming, and this time is not compensated. Over time, car seat hardware can also damage the vehicle’s interior fabric or leather.

The nanny’s car payments, insurance, tires, regular maintenance, and unexpected repairs far exceed what $50 per week can cover. By the time she leaves a position, she may be facing the need to purchase a new vehicle to remain employable in her next role.

Employer Solutions That Make a Difference

Forward-thinking families recognize the true cost of vehicle use and adjust their approach:

Provide a Work Vehicle: Many families purchase or lease a reliable used car for the nanny to use exclusively during working hours.

Transfer a Family Car: Some pass down a safe, well-maintained older family vehicle for nanny use, upgrading their own in the process.

Increase Stipend: Align mileage reimbursement with the Standard Mileage Rate or your state’s equivalent to fairly cover expenses.

Why It Matters

When you protect your nanny’s primary form of transportation, you’re not just making her job easier; you’re helping preserve her livelihood. A well-supported nanny is more reliable, less stressed, and better able to focus on the quality of care your children receive.

Consider one of these options… your nanny will genuinely appreciate it, and you will see the difference in her dedication and performance.

Parent Checklist: Using Your Nanny’s Vehicle

Before asking your nanny to use her car for work purposes, consider:

1. Reliability & Safety

Is her vehicle large enough and safe for your children’s car seats?

Has it passed recent inspections and maintenance checks?

2. Cost & Compensation

Are you covering fuel, wear-and-tear, and depreciation fairly?

Are you matching or exceeding the Standard Mileage Rate (or your state’s equivalent)?

3. Insurance Coverage

Does your nanny’s insurance cover her while transporting your children?

Will you add her to your family’s policy as an additional driver?

4. Car Seats

Who installs them? Are they professionally installed and safety-checked?

Will you compensate for the time and effort to install/remove seats?

5. Alternative Solutions

Can you provide a dedicated “nanny car” for work use?

Can you lease or transfer a reliable family vehicle for her?

Tip for Employers: Supporting your nanny’s transportation is an investment in reliability, safety, and long-term trust.