christmas bonus for nanny - cash or declared?

[chisigirl]

Hi. I've got a question for all those of you who are nannies or who employ a nanny...

I plan on paying our nanny a Christmas bonus of one week's pay. Our nanny is paid legally (ie taxes and NI contributions sent to the tax office, etc). Do you think I should pay the bonus as salary as well (ie fully taxed) or pay it in cash (untaxed) so that she gets more?

many thanks in advance for your input...

I don't know anyone who doesn't get a bit peeved about the amount of tax they loose in their Xmas bonus, so I would give cash - if I had a nanny

Wonder if Gordon Brown gives his nanny a cash bonus? Bet he does!

I get my bonus in cash.