Au pairs rarely send estimates, since the stipend and hours are set by the program or an agreement. An estimate or quote comes up in private live-in arrangements, when a family wants to compare a proposed weekly rate, or when you quote extras such as a family vacation or a school-break schedule. Families usually compare the weekly pay, hours expected, days off, and what is covered by them, such as phone, car use, and meals.
When to use estimates: Use estimates to provide project quotes and get client approval before starting work. Once approved, convert your estimate to an invoice with one click to collect payment.
Create an invoice for payment collection
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PDF will be generated with filename:
Invoice_1001_Client_2026-10-14.pdf
Sets the baseline so the family and the au pair agree on what is regular time and what is extra.
Childcare tasks like school pickups and children's laundry should be listed, and general housework or pet care should be addressed to avoid disputes.
Specifies weekends off, paid vacation, and holidays, which the family should account for in the budget.
Gives a known price when the family needs additional coverage, so they do not have to negotiate it each time.
Spells out the private room, meals, phone plan, and access to a car, which affect the cash rate.
States whether you will drive, which car, who pays for fuel and insurance, and the mileage rate if using your own car.
Notes any sponsor rules on hours, pay, and outside work so the quote stays within them.
| Service | Priced | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Weekly live-in childcare (up to 45 hours, room and board provided) | per week | $200-350 |
| Part-time live-in or partial au pair (about 30 hours) | per week | $150-275 |
| Extra evening or date-night babysitting beyond scheduled hours | per hour | $12-20 |
| Weekend overnight childcare | per night | $70-120 |
| Extra full day during school breaks (within legal hour limits) | per day | $80-140 |
| Driving to activities with your own car | per mile | $0.50-0.70 |
| Language practice or homework help sessions | per hour | $15-25 |
| Out-of-town family trip coverage | per day | $90-150 |
Typical US ranges. Rates vary by region, experience, and job size.
If you are on a J-1, the stipend floor and hour limits are set by the program. A quote should never go below the sponsor's required amount, and extras need sponsor approval.
List overnight, weekend, and break coverage as separate lines with their own rates so the base price stays comparable between candidates.
A private room, meals, and phone can offset a lower cash rate, but state them so the family sees the full package.
Add an expiry date, such as 14 days, and a start date. Childcare needs often depend on school schedules and move-in dates.
A written, accepted quote is a clear record of what was agreed, but it is not a replacement for a program agreement. If a sponsor is involved, follow the sponsor's terms.
List the dates, daily hours, a daily rate, and who pays for travel, lodging, and meals. Confirm any visa or sponsor limits on hours and travel before accepting.
A fixed weekly rate for set hours is easier for both sides. If hours may vary, give the base rate for the agreed hours and a separate hourly rate for extra time.
Use the Au Pair invoice template to bill the client, or convert this estimate once it's approved.
Au Pair invoice template