The first-ever national survey of domestic workers in the United States has revealed substandard working conditions faced by a largely female workforce that goes almost entirely unprotected by labor laws. According to a survey of more than 2,000 nannies, caregivers and house cleaners, nearly a quarter of U.S. domestic workers are paid less than the state minimum wage. The survey found particularly dire rates for live-in workers, who make a median hourly wage of $6.15. Domestic workers receive almost no benefits, with only 4 percent getting employer-provided insurance. Many also reported being forced to silently endure verbal and even physical abuse out of fear of being fired or reported to immigration authorities if they complained.