What would the IRS flag about how you've been paying your nanny?
Answer 12 questions. We'll check common federal and state household-employment issues and show you what needs review.
Educational only. Not tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult a licensed tax professional for your specific situation.
How Missouri household employer rules differ
Missouri has a progressive income tax with many brackets. Kansas City and St. Louis both impose 1% earnings taxes on those who work or live in those cities.
State unemployment insurance (SUI). Missouri requires household employers to register and pay state unemployment tax once wages cross its applicable threshold. New York and DC use $500 per quarter; many states use $1,000. 2026 unemployment tax rates in Missouri: 0% - 9%. Missing the registration is one of the most common audit findings.
State income tax withholding. Missouri has state income tax, which means you may need to withhold from your nanny's paycheck (it depends on whether they elect withholding on the state W-4 equivalent). If they do, you owe quarterly remittance and an annual state W-2 reconciliation.
Minimum wage. The minimum wage in Missouri is $15.00/hour. Paying below the rate that applies is a wage problem with the Department of Labor, separate from taxes and often more expensive, because you owe the back wages plus a penalty on top.
Missouri household employer questions
The state-specific rules behind every finding.