23 Year Old Babysitter Screwed Over

I am a 23-year-old from NY, working part-time in childcare and attending school part-time.

In February 2024, I was hired to care for a family friend’s (B) sister’s (L) daughter, who has severe ADHD and suspected autism. My duties included waking her up, preparing her meals, and ensuring she got to school on time (by bus or driving her). I also fed their pets, did light cleaning (dishes, laundry), and often helped L, who is a disabled mother with household chores for an additional ~3 hours. I woke up at 4:30 AM to arrive by 6 AM, Monday through Friday.

In May 2024, I was in a serious car accident and missed two weeks of work. Despite ongoing pain, I returned and worked as usual, even worsening my injuries, which now require surgery. My responsibilities went beyond childcare, like hauling heavy garbage bags (the parents refused to take out trash), cleaning filthy litter boxes that were rarely cleaned, building furniture, and other tasks far outside my job description.

In July 2024, things changed. My hours were cut to 3–4 days per week, and I could arrive later in the day. Around this time, B and my mother had a disagreement that ended their relationship. L assured me this wouldn’t affect my job and emphasized I was “very much needed.” We agreed to remain uninvolved in their conflict for the child’s sake.

After working another week, I texted L on Saturday to confirm the schedule and submit my hours for payment. She didn’t respond. Over the next week, I sent texts, called, and even left a voicemail but heard nothing back.

Since then, I’ve struggled to find work that accommodates my temporary disability. I’ve depleted my savings, and I feel betrayed. I went above and beyond for this family—cleaning their home, taking care of their child, and showing up early every day for six months—only to be ghosted and left unpaid. They owe me hundreds of dollars for my last week of work.

I’ve filed a report with the Department of Labor. I was paid via PayPal, but the father’s company reimbursed him for childcare, so they have my SSN.

My question: Is it worth pursuing civil court action against my former employer? I understand I can’t sue for emotional distress, but I believe I was wrongfully terminated, and I’ve suffered lost wages from the withheld pay. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.