Do You Need an EIN for Paying a Nanny or Household Employee?

The short answer, when exactly you need one, and how to get it free — for 2026.

By the Easy Guides Editorial Team · Updated for 2026

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Quick answer

Yes. Here's exactly when you need an EIN for this, and how to get one free.

Do you need an EIN for this?

If you pay a household employee — a nanny, housekeeper, or in-home caregiver — cash wages over the annual threshold (about $2,800 for 2026), you're a household employer and need an EIN. You use it to report and pay the 'nanny taxes' (Social Security, Medicare, and unemployment) on Schedule H with your personal return. Your personal SSN can't be used for employment tax reporting.

How to get your EIN — free, in about 15 minutes

However you answer above, getting an EIN is free. Apply directly on the IRS website and you'll have your number immediately — never pay a third-party site that charges $100–$300 for a free government service. See how to apply and why the paid sites are a scam.

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Frequently asked questions

Yes, if you pay a household employee more than the annual threshold (about $2,800 in 2026). You need an EIN to report the nanny taxes on Schedule H — your SSN can't be used for payroll reporting.
Almost always an employee, not a contractor, because you control how and when the work is done. That's why you (not the nanny) owe employment taxes and need an EIN — a W-9/1099 arrangement is usually incorrect for household workers.
Yes — free from the IRS, issued immediately online. You'll use it every year on Schedule H.

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