Am I being overpaid?

Question

I babysit frequently for a two-income family of four. The wife is an elementary school teacher, and I don't know the husband's profession [something with a corporation?]

The daughters are 2 1/2 and 4 months, both very well-behaved and sweet.

I like babysitting for them - it's lots of fun - but lately I've been noticing I'm paid significantly more than my other friends who babysit for other families. They pay me between $7 and $9 an hour, sometimes more, and I feel guilty. I know they are well-off and can porobably afford to pay so well, but I feel like they should pay less.

Should I ask them to do so, or just accept the extra pay?

Answer 1

just take it, they wont like it if they find out your trying to figure out what they make and if they can afford you or not. they could take it as an insult. you should be glad you feel there overpaying yoo

Answer 2

You know what they say, when life give you lemons, make lemonade..... TAKE THE MONEY!!!!!

Answer 3

Keep getting paid the amount you are receiving thats alot of work to take care of thoughs ages,im sure if they couldnt afford to pay you they would say something or tell you they need to cut your pay.

Answer 4

They really like you.  You might mention that you feel you're being overpaid if you want, given the kind of family that they are, already paying you well, I doubt they will actually reduce your pay.

In the meantime, feel gratitude, and do your very best on account of it.

It's also possible that your friends are underpaid, depending on what area you're in, and how old you all are.  Because of this possibility, I would be very careful of stepping on someone else's feelings by discussing this too much with them.

Also be aware that in a metro area, a good nanny (this would be an adult) can get $25 an hour, maybe even more.  And that the minimum wage in some areas is in line with what you're getting.

Answer 5

lots of people dream of getting better paid and your worried about being overpaid?! i would just say nothing and keep accepting the cash.if the parents are giving you this money it obviously means they appreciate your work with their kids and the amount of pay they give you shows that.

Answer 6

accept it! they are doing this because their children are so young. as they get older, they will pay you less. although they are good children, they still require constant attention since they are so young. enjoy it now!

Answer 7

Well, 7-9 $ an hour is pretty regular, although if you're younger than most babysitters then it might be a little much...  If you feel uncomforatable just ask to always be paid $7/hr, which is very reasonable.  

It's nice to know there are people out there who care more about others than money

great job and great honesty!!!

Answer 8

well since the kids are young you will be payed more..diapers and bottle feeding sometimes add to an amount. You are probably great with them so thats why they keep having you back...(the kids would cry when they leave if tehy didnt like you)...