We know how confusing taxes can be for au pairs and want to help simplify the process as much as possible. While we are not certified tax advisors and cannot provide tax advice, we have compiled some helpful information below.
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September 10, 2025 · 2 min read
Tax Information for Au Pairs
Overview of au pair taxes
The U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) considers au pairs to be employees of the host family for tax reasons, even though they are in the United States on a cultural exchange visa. The weekly au pair stipend1 is subject to U.S. income taxes and au pairs are responsible for declaring their income, submitting a tax return and paying taxes if necessary.
Since tax laws vary from state to state and are changed frequently, we advise host families and au pairs to speak with a local professional tax advisor for definitive answers to specific questions about state taxes that may be owed.
While Cultural Care Au Pair is not licensed to provide official tax advice or able to provide specific tax information, we are pleased to provide general guidelines for federal taxes. If you require additional assistance, we can recommend the following resources:
The IRS website has the most recent and only official information about au pairs and taxes.
IRS Help number: 1-800-829-1040 within the US, and +1-267-941-1000 outside the US.
Speak with a local professional tax advisor for more information on tax laws specific to your state.
Sprintax has created a program for nonresident exchange visitors, which includes au pairs, to be able to file their taxes. Their services include both state and federal tax filings that can be submitted directly online as well as support services to help answer any questions. The information and views of Sprintax are not endorsed by, attributable to, or affiliated with those of Cultural Care, Inc. Their contact is provided for general information purposes only.
Au pair taxes FAQ
What are au pairs’ tax responsibilities?
The U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) considers au pairs to be employees of the host family for tax reasons, even though they are in the United States on a cultural exchange visa. Therefore, the weekly au pair stipend is subject to U.S. income taxes. Au pairs are responsible for declaring their own income, submitting a tax return and paying taxes if necessary. To file income taxes in the U.S., either a social security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (“ITIN”) is needed.
How much do au pairs have to pay?
Although Cultural Care is not able to provide tax advice, we encourage you to discuss with your au pair whether to set aside additional money each week toward this tax obligation. Many au pairs find that saving $20 per week is helpful to prepare for their federal tax filing.
Where can au pairs and host families get help?
The IRS website has the most recent and only official information about au pairs and taxes.
IRS Help number: 1-800-829-1040 within the US, and +1-267-941-1000 outside the US.
IRS Chat function helps to direct you on their webpage.
How can au pairs avoid scams when filing taxes?
If using outside assistance to file taxes, au pairs should be careful of any company or individual who refuses to sign the form as the preparer, who requires payment in cash, who asks the au pair to create fake income or fake deductions or asks to have any refund come to their account. The linked IRS page has advice as well as a website that lists Federal Tax Return Preparers who have the proper qualifications.
1Monthly minimum average cost to host an au pair, regardless of the number of children the au pair cares for. This cost includes the agency fees and the minimum weekly stipend paid directly to the au pair for 52 weeks, including 2 weeks of paid vacation. Does not include incidental costs of hosting an au pair, such as meals, insurance, and other amenities.
2Au pairs pay a smaller program fee to the foreign company that screens them, but no portion of that fee is used to pay for the costs of their international airfare or domestic U.S. transportation. Au pairs may be charged additional fees in the event of special travel requests.
3The U.S. Department of State has determined that au pairs are required to receive from their host families at least $195.75 per week. Host families and au pairs are free to discuss and agree to compensation higher than the required stipend minimum; however, this cannot be in exchange for the au pair exceeding the regulatory limits on working hours (10 hours per day; 45 hours per week) or performing duties beyond childcare-related tasks. The State Department formula is based on the federal minimum wage and applicable room and board credits. Any change in the federal minimum wage or the applicable credits will result in an increase in this minimum stipend amount. Please note, should a family extend beyond the first year, they would be responsible for the stipend for each week of the extension term.
4This contribution towards an au pair’s education requirement is determined by the U.S. Department of State, and families agree to comply with any increase that is issued.
Learn more about hosting an au pair
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