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Does an Au Pair need to pay taxes in the USA?

Au Pairs in the USA receive a stipend subject to taxes. Fulfilling tax obligations and following IRS regulations is essential to maintain legal status during the program.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on February 9, 2026
2 min read
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Participating in an Au Pair program in the United States involves various responsibilities, and one of them is fulfilling tax obligations. Although the program is a cultural and exchange experience, Au Pairs receive a stipend for their services, and this income is subject to US taxation rules.

In practice, the money received from host families is considered income and may be subject to federal taxes and, depending on the location, also state and local taxes. Generally, Au Pairs are classified as non-residents for tax purposes and therefore need to report their earnings using the appropriate form, such as the 1040NR.

It is important to emphasize that, despite being a cultural experience, being an Au Pair does not exempt one from tax responsibilities as workers; Au Pairs must be aware of these obligations during their stay. Furthermore, it is essential to follow all regulations established by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as well as US immigration laws.

Seeking accurate information and, when necessary, consulting official sources or reputable specialists can help you avoid scams or unfounded promises offering easy solutions. Each situation has its particularities, and complying with tax obligations is crucial to maintaining your lawful status in the country.

Keep your documents organized, stay attentive to changes in tax regulations, and respect current immigration laws. Paying attention to these details not only ensures a smoother experience in the United States but also contributes to your personal and professional growth during the program.

Learn more about J-1 Visa

Type
Cultural exchange
Duration
Program duration
2-year rule
Applies in some cases
Processing
2-6 weeks
All about J-1 Visa
Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.

Victoria's tips

Does an Au Pair need to pay taxes in the USA?

Au Pairs in the USA receive a stipend subject to taxes. Fulfilling tax obligations and following IRS regulations is essential to maintain legal status during the program.

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