How do I politely ask for more money when I don't get paind enough for babysitting?

Question

I was babysitting a child for eight hours and only got paid thirty dollars. I don't want to be rude, but I think that's a little low.

Answer 1

That is a little low! You can't very well ask for more money now, that's just rude. But if you babysit for them again, you can tell them that you raised your going rate. That way, they won't feel awkward about having underpaid you before, but you'll get more money. And if they say they don't want to pay more than 4 bucks an hour, they're cheapskates. Have courage in your convictions- be polite, but don't back down. Okay, one last thing. A lot of people are saying that you should ask $10 an hour. Don't. Usually, teenage babysitters get paid somewhere around minimum wage, unless you get lucky. I suggest asking $7 an hour, and perhaps ading on some kind of exhaustion charge if you're babysitting for more than a certain amount of time. (8 hours? seriously?)

Answer 2

um.... thats why u have to tell them what u want in the first place when u first started!!

Answer 3

Before you sit next time, say: "My rates have gone up. I now charge __$ an hour (whatever you think is fair). I hope that's alright." After you've accepted payment, it is too late to change to price.

I would also keep a short log of everything you do with the child (make this during nap time or after the kid is in bed), so that the parents can see everything you have done and that you are worth it!

Answer 4

You also need to take into consideration how much the parents make.  I never had a set rate.  I got paid what I was paid, and never complained.  My parents were poor, as were so many others who I babysat for.

Answer 5

Quit and say sorry the money I'm making is not enough so I'll have to find another job. If they need you they will pay more. But 8 hours you should get like $80 atleast.

Answer 6

Depends how long have you been working for them,if its been say 6 months think of what you should get paid then lower it

Answer 7

that is kinda low you like deserve 60 to 70 dollars

Answer 8

This is so funny that you would just ask this because I literally JUST finished reading my new seventeen magazine and there was an article on tips on how to ask for more babysitting money. It said the going rate (varying btwn states) is anywhere from $6-$10 per hour. It said if you want to ask for more money you should state why you deserve more money (mention how long you've known or been working for the family and how responsible you are) and be polite. I don't know if this really works as I'm just copying it from a magazine article and I don't babysit but I figured I might as well tell you what the magazine said...oh yeah and it also says that when asking for a raise it should be around $1-$1.50 more...well, good luck!

Answer 9

You could just tell them that with the gas prices and everything else going up, you feel you need to be paid a little more for your job. Tell them you hate to ask but you know that even with a raise, they will still be getting a good rate and that you love keeping their child and would hate to lose the job.

In your own words they need to know that you May have to find someone else to keep if they are unable to increase your pay. I do not know how long you have been baby sitting for them but if it has been a while, you really have a reason to ask for an increase.

It is true that everything is going up and that you have to feed the child and with your expenses and long hours, you feel you must ask for a little more for keeping their child.

It is difficult to find anyone to baby sit and the rates at the nursery's are outrageous. You would be more than justified for asking for more and I am sure they know they are getting a very good deal. They should have already offered. But, I do not think you will have a problem for asking for more. They will be glad to pay it for the personal service and attention they are receiving for their child and not having to pay the high rates at a day care center.

Don't be shy about asking. Ask for it as if you are assuming they will pay with no problem. Do not back down. You have good reason to ask for more. I am sure they get raises on their job and if you are keeping this child in your home and feeding it your food, it cost you to keep it. I do not think they will hesitate to pay a little more. I would try to be reasonable with the increase you want and it will make it easier for them to agree to your request.

Answer 10

The only thing you can do is put in your 2 weeks notice and tell them you can't afford to work for less than minimum wage. Say in your letter you are willing to stay for minimum wage if they like.

Answer 11

I think you guy are nuts.. $10/hr???  Minimum wage isn't even $7.00.  There are adults that work jobs that don't even make $10 or are just making $10.  I think $5 is plenty... 1/2 of the time you are sitting there, watching their TV, eating their food and talking on their phone while the kids are sleeping.  I don't know where you people live, but I couldn't afford to pay a babysitter $30 to go see a $10 movie @ the theatre.. it's crazy.

Answer 12

thats why you should have discussed that BEFORE you start !

Answer 13

well i babysit alot and that has happened to me b4....now when i babysit i make it clear that i charge 10 dollars an hour....set an amout per hour and let them know for next time....hope this helps