Terms of Service

These Terms of Service ("Terms") outline the conditions under which individuals residing in the United States may access and utilize the Speedysitter service ("Service"). Certain services provided by Speedysitter may also be subject to additional terms and conditions, which you may need to accept as a condition of using those services ("Additional Terms").

Please read these Terms and any applicable Additional Terms carefully before utilizing the Service. By accessing or using the Service, you agree to comply with these Terms and any Additional Terms, whether or not you register as a user of the Service.

1. Description of Services; Limitations; User Responsibilities

1.1 Overview of Services

Speedysitter provides a service that connects caregivers seeking urgent or occasional childcare with independent, relevant childcare providers by supplying contact information. Caregivers may submit requests based on specific criteria, and Speedysitter facilitates the matching of these requests with childcare providers who meet the caregivers’ specified requirements.

Speedysitter does not employ childcare providers and does not oversee or control the services they offer. Caregivers are responsible for conducting their own vetting, background checks, and ensuring that selected childcare providers meet their specific requirements.

Once contact information is provided, Speedysitter does not supervise, manage, or facilitate any further communication, coordination, or care arrangements between caregivers and childcare providers. All subsequent interactions, communications, and agreements are the sole responsibility of the caregivers and the childcare providers.

1.2 Limitations of Services

No Employment Relationship: Speedysitter does not employ childcare providers and is not responsible for their conduct, actions, or performance.
No Oversight or Control of Services: Speedysitter does not oversee or control the services provided by childcare providers. The scope and quality of services are exclusively determined by the caregiver and childcare provider.
No Endorsements: Speedysitter does not endorse, recommend, or guarantee the qualifications, quality, or suitability of any childcare provider. Caregivers are responsible for ensuring that their selected provider meets their specific requirements.
No Employment Agency Services: Speedysitter does not function as an employment agency and does not provide professional, medical, diagnostic, treatment, or licensed services.
Verification Limitations: Speedysitter’s verification of information provided by childcare providers is limited to self-reported details and does not guarantee accuracy or completeness.

1.3 User Responsibilities

Caregivers are responsible for conducting their own vetting and background checks to ensure that any selected childcare provider meets their specific standards and requirements. Speedysitter does not participate in, guarantee, or oversee any vetting or verification processes.

2. Eligibility to Use the Service

By requesting access to, signing up for, or utilizing the Service, you affirm that you have the legal right, authority, and capacity to agree to these Terms and commit to adhering to all terms and conditions outlined herein. Additionally, you represent and warrant that you meet the following eligibility criteria:

Intended Use: You intend to use the Service solely to seek, provide, or manage childcare-related services.
Minimum Age: You are at least 18 years old.
Residency: You are legally residing in the United States or the territory of Puerto Rico.
Work Authorization: If registering as a childcare provider, you confirm that you are legally authorized to work in the United States or Puerto Rico.
Legal History: You and any members of your household must not have been subject to any legal actions involving:
- Any felony;
- Any criminal offense involving violence, abuse, neglect, theft, or drugs;
- Any offense endangering the safety of others or involving fraud or dishonesty.
Sex Offender Status: You confirm that you and no member of your household are registered or required to register as a sex offender with any governmental entity.

3. Rules for User Conduct and Use of Services

3.1 Information Submission and Communication

Users are responsible for providing accurate, current, and complete information when using the Service. Speedysitter supplies caregivers with a list of childcare providers based on completed request forms. Speedysitter does not arrange introductions or oversee any communication; all further interactions are managed solely by caregivers and childcare providers.

You agree not to submit false, misleading, defamatory, or illegal information.

3.2 Exclusive Use of the Service

The Service may only be used to find or manage childcare for family members or individuals under your guardianship. Users are responsible for ensuring the accuracy of all information submitted through requests and communications, whether seeking or providing childcare services.

3.3 Prohibited Uses

By using the Service, you agree that you will not:

Use the Service in any abusive, threatening, obscene, or otherwise objectionable manner.
Use the Service for any fraudulent or unlawful purpose unrelated to arranging childcare.
Harass or harm another person through communication facilitated by Speedysitter.
Attempt to interfere with the proper functioning of the Service or use automated means to access the Service.

4. Identity Verification and Responsibilities

4.1 Verification Process

ID Submission: Childcare providers must submit a government-issued ID during registration to verify their identity. This is an additional verification step and does not replace comprehensive background checks.
Social Media Profile Link: Childcare providers are required to provide a link to a social media profile, which will be shared with caregivers seeking services. This helps caregivers make more informed decisions.
Verification Review: Speedysitter will review submitted IDs and social media profiles to ensure consistency with the information provided by childcare providers. This review is intended solely to enhance user accountability and does not constitute a background check or endorsement of the provider’s suitability.
Data Handling: All submitted IDs and social media links are securely stored using encryption, with access restricted to authorized personnel. This data is retained only for the duration necessary for verification and is securely deleted afterward.

4.2 Limitations of ID Verification

The ID verification process is limited to confirming the accuracy of the submitted identification and does not cover criminal history checks or qualifications. Speedysitter encourages caregivers to conduct their own due diligence, including criminal background checks and reference verifications.

4.3 Data Security and Privacy

Speedysitter is committed to protecting personal information. All data, including ID images and social media profile links, is handled in compliance with privacy laws and industry best practices. Users may request access, correction, or deletion of their personal information by contacting admin@speedysitter.com.

4.4 Release of Liability

Users acknowledge that Speedysitter’s identity verification is limited and does not guarantee the safety, qualifications, or suitability of childcare providers. By using the Service, users agree to indemnify and hold Speedysitter harmless from any claims, damages, or liabilities arising from the use of the Service, including interactions with childcare providers.

5. Termination of Service

5.1 Termination Rights

Speedysitter reserves the right to suspend or terminate access to the Service at its sole discretion, with or without prior notice, for any reason. Reasons for termination may include, but are not limited to, failure to meet eligibility criteria, violation of these Terms, or misuse of the Service.

5.2 Effect of Termination

Once access is terminated, Speedysitter will no longer process caregiver requests or match providers with job opportunities. Caregivers will not receive contact information for childcare providers, and providers will no longer be included in matching efforts for new childcare opportunities. Any existing arrangements or agreements between caregivers and providers that were facilitated before termination remain the sole responsibility of the involved parties.

5.3 Notification of Termination

Users acknowledge that Speedysitter may, but is not obligated to, inform other users with whom the terminated individual has corresponded of such termination. Any notice provided does not reflect or imply judgments about the individual’s character, reputation, or personal attributes. Speedysitter’s decision to terminate access is final and at its sole discretion.

6. Privacy Practices

6.1 Information Collection and Use

Speedysitter collects personal information, including but not limited to names, contact details, preferences, and availability, for the purposes of facilitating the matching of caregivers with childcare providers and ensuring the efficient operation of the Service. This information is utilized to enhance service functionality, communicate with users, prevent fraud, and uphold the safety and integrity of the Service.

By creating an account and using the Service, both parents and providers consent to the collection, use, and processing of their personal information as described in these Terms. Parents provide consent when submitting requests, while providers provide consent when registering to be listed on the platform. Consent is considered ongoing for the duration of the user’s engagement with the Service unless expressly revoked as provided under these Terms.

6.2 Verification and Fraud Prevention

Speedysitter may use third-party services to verify user information, such as identity or self-reported details. This process may include cross-referencing user data with publicly available records or fraud prevention databases.

By using Speedysitter, users consent to identity verification and understand that their data may be shared with third-party verification services to ensure accuracy and safety.

6.3 Information Sharing

Speedysitter does not sell personal information to third parties. However, information may be shared:

With third-party services for identity verification.
As required by law, such as to comply with legal obligations or address safety concerns.
To fulfill the Service, such as sharing provider names, social media profiles, and phone numbers with parents submitting childcare requests.

All data sharing is conducted in alignment with the purposes outlined in these Terms. Any changes to these practices will be communicated through updates to the Terms.

6.4 User Rights and Choices

Users have the right to request updates, corrections, or deletion of their personal information by contacting Speedysitter at admin@speedysitter.com. While certain information can be removed upon request, Speedysitter may retain data for legal or business purposes, such as fraud prevention or compliance with applicable laws.

Users may also withdraw consent for the use of their personal data at any time by contacting admin@speedysitter.com. Please note that withdrawing consent may limit or prevent access to certain features of the Service.

Users can opt-out of marketing communications through the unsubscribe link provided in emails or by contacting Speedysitter directly.

6.5 Data Security

Speedysitter uses industry-standard security measures to protect personal information. However, no system is entirely secure, and users agree to assume some risk in transmitting data.

6.6 Updates to Privacy Practices

Speedysitter reserves the right to modify its privacy practices. Material changes will be communicated through updates to these Terms or other appropriate channels.

Speedysitter will notify users of significant changes to privacy practices through email or prominent notices on the website. Continued use of the Service after updates signifies acceptance of the revised terms.

6.7 Contact Information

For privacy-related inquiries, to exercise your privacy rights, or to withdraw consent, contact Speedysitter at admin@speedysitter.com.

6.8 SMS Messaging Consent

By providing their phone number and using the Service, users consent to receiving SMS messages from Speedysitter. These messages may include:

Updates about childcare requests, including lists of matched providers;
Notifications regarding job submissions, such as confirmation of being submitted for a job or notification that their contact details have been shared with parents actively seeking care;
Other essential communications necessary for the operation of the Service.

Users acknowledge that SMS messaging is a core functionality of the Service. Opting out of SMS messages will result in the inability to use Speedysitter’s services.

To withdraw consent or for privacy-related inquiries, users can contact Speedysitter at admin@speedysitter.com.

7. Payment and Refund Policy

7.1 Billing and Payment

By using Speedysitter’s subscription services, users agree to pay all applicable fees as specified during the registration process. You authorize Speedysitter or its third-party payment processor to charge your designated payment method for recurring subscription fees and any other charges incurred in connection with your use of the Service. Speedysitter reserves the right to correct any billing errors, including after payment has been processed. Any changes to subscription fees will be communicated in advance through email or a prominent notice on the Service.

7.2 Automatic Renewal and Cancellation

All subscriptions automatically renew at the end of the current term unless canceled by the user. To avoid being charged for the next subscription period, users must cancel their subscription before the renewal date. Upon cancellation, users will retain access to the Service for the remainder of their current subscription term.

7.3 Free Trial Offers

If a free trial is offered, users must cancel before the trial period ends to avoid being charged. If the subscription is not canceled, it will automatically transition to a paid plan at the standard rate disclosed during signup. Users are responsible for monitoring trial expiration dates to avoid unwanted charges.

7.4 Refund Policy

All payments made to Speedysitter are non-refundable. If a user cancels their subscription during an active term, no refunds or credits will be provided for any unused portion of the subscription. Speedysitter does not offer refunds for partially used services, trial periods, or subscription fees paid in advance.

8. Age Restrictions

The Service is intended for individuals aged 18 or older. By using the Service, you affirm that you meet this age requirement. If it is determined that a user does not meet this requirement, Speedysitter reserves the right to terminate their access immediately without prior notice.

9. Disclaimers; Limitations; Waivers; Indemnification

9.1 Assumption of Risk

Using the Service to find or provide childcare involves inherent risks. While Speedysitter strives to promote the safety of its services, it does not provide training, supervision, or monitoring of caregivers or childcare providers. By using the Service, you agree to assume all risks, including but not limited to injury, illness, or other potential harm resulting from any interactions.

9.2 Limitation of Liability

Speedysitter is not liable for any indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages, losses, or expenses arising from your use of or inability to use the Service. The total liability of Speedysitter for any claim is limited to the amount paid for the Service, up to a maximum of $25. Speedysitter is not responsible for damages resulting from user conduct or relationships formed through the Service.

9.3 Indemnification

You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Speedysitter and its affiliates from any claims, losses, expenses, or liabilities arising from:

Information you share through the use of the Service;
Your use of the Service in violation of these Terms or applicable law;
Any relationship or agreement formed between caregivers and childcare providers through the Service.

10. Agreement to Arbitrate

10.1 Binding Arbitration

Any dispute or claim arising out of or relating to these Terms or your use of the Service will be resolved through binding arbitration rather than in court. Arbitration is a simpler, cost-effective alternative where a neutral arbitrator determines your rights instead of a judge or jury. The Federal Arbitration Act governs this Arbitration Agreement’s interpretation and enforcement.

10.2 Individual Claims Only

All claims must be brought on an individual basis. You and Speedysitter agree not to bring claims as part of a class action, collective action, or representative proceeding.

10.3 Pre-Arbitration Dispute Resolution

Before arbitration, you and Speedysitter agree to attempt to resolve disputes informally. Send a written description of your dispute, including your name, details of the issue, and the relief sought, to Speedysitter at admin@speedysitter.com. If no resolution is reached within 60 days, arbitration may proceed.

10.4 Opt-Out Option

You may opt out of this Arbitration Agreement within 30 days of first using the Service by sending written notice, including your name and contact information, to admin@speedysitter.com. Opting out releases both parties from the arbitration terms.

10.5 Arbitration Costs

If arbitration costs are prohibitive compared to litigation, Speedysitter will cover fees to ensure arbitration remains accessible. All other costs, including legal fees, are your responsibility unless awarded otherwise under applicable law.

11. Governing Law and Jurisdiction

These Terms and any claims arising from this agreement are governed by the laws of the State of Indiana, excluding conflict of law principles. If arbitration is not applicable, disputes will be resolved exclusively in the state or federal courts of Indiana. Both parties agree to submit to the jurisdiction of Indiana courts for such disputes.

12. Consent to Electronic Communication

You consent to receive electronic communications from Speedysitter, including email and text messages, regarding important updates and notices. You are responsible for ensuring your contact information is accurate and up to date.

13. Miscellaneous

These Terms do not establish a partnership, joint venture, agency relationship, or employment relationship between you and Speedysitter. Any representations or commitments must be explicitly authorized in writing to be enforceable.

If any provision of these Terms is found invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions will remain in effect. Invalid provisions will be replaced with enforceable terms reflecting the original intent.

14. Severability

If any part of these Terms is deemed invalid or unenforceable, that portion will be replaced with a valid provision consistent with the original intent. The remainder of the Terms will continue to apply in full force.

15. Contact Information

For inquiries related to Speedysitter’s services or these Terms, contact us at admin@speedysitter.com. Speedysitter will respond promptly to your questions or concerns.