Helper guide

In your free time, you can work as a “helper” for Japanese families in the U.S. Whether you love cats, are great with kids or are good at heavy lifting — put what you are good at to use.

Getting started

Sign up for free and confirm your email address.
Create your helper profile. Adding a photo, concrete experience, and the days and times you are available makes it more likely you will be chosen.
Set up payouts (with Stripe).
Make offers on requests, or wait to be invited.

ID and qualification checks

Once our team has checked your photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, passport, etc.), you get an “ID verified” badge. Qualifications such as childcare worker, nurse, teaching license or CPR are also marked “verified” once we can check the certificate.

If you would like to be verified, use the contact form, choose “Other,” and write “ID verification request.” We will explain how to proceed (please do not paste images of your ID directly into an email or the form).

Work eligibility

To work for pay, you must be authorized to work in the United States.

U.S. citizens and permanent residents (green card holders): you can work.
Spouses on E or L visas: work is authorized as part of your status (please check what your I-94 says).
Spouses on H-4 visas: you need a valid EAD (Employment Authorization Document).
Student visas such as F-1, and ESTA or tourist visas: as a rule, you cannot work.

This is general guidance, not legal advice. Please check your own situation with an expert such as an immigration attorney.

Money and taxes

Helpers are not employees of Onegai USA; they take on work as individuals. Payments you receive are generally income you must report on your tax return (it is usually treated as self-employment income, subject to income tax and self-employment tax).
If you receive more than $20,000 and more than 200 payments through the site in a year, the payment provider will issue a Form 1099-K. You still need to report your income even if no form is issued.
Keep a record of what you receive each month, and keep track of expenses such as travel costs.

For tax questions, please consult a professional such as a CPA or an EA (Enrolled Agent), including those who can help in Japanese.

Tips for being a great helper

In your offer message, be specific about your experience and how you arrived at your price (for example, $28 × 12 visits).
While you work, send regular updates with photos.
Always confirm in advance how keys will be handed over, emergency contacts, pet medication and children’s allergies.
Saying up front what you cannot do builds trust.