What defines a household employee?

A household employee is best defined as an individual who performs nonbusiness services in a taxpayer's home. This category typically includes roles such as caregivers, housekeepers, and landscapers who provide services specifically designed for the personal benefit of the homeowner rather than for a commercial or business purpose.

In contrast, other options reflect services rendered in professional or business contexts. For example, an individual performing business services in a taxpayer's office would be classified as a regular employee rather than a household employee. Similarly, managing financial affairs generally relates to a professional service, such as that provided by financial advisors or accountants, which does not fit the household employee definition. Lastly, while an employee of a home-based business may technically work from a residence, their role is tied to a business operation, thus excluding them from the definition of a household employee.

By focusing on the context of the services performed within the home and their personal nature, the definition captures the essence of what constitutes a household employee.