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Small Business Payroll & HR Guide

Minimum wage, payroll taxes, new hire reporting, and pay requirements — what every small business owner needs to know, state by state.

Minimum Wage by State

Current rates for all 50 states + DC. Tipped wages, CPI indexing, local city rates, scheduled increases, and exemptions.

How to Set Up Payroll

Step-by-step guide to running payroll for the first time. Software options, tax registration, and pay schedules.

Payroll Taxes

What employers owe: Social Security, Medicare, FUTA, SUTA, and state withholding. Rates and deadlines.

New Hire Reporting

Every state requires you to report new hires. Deadlines, forms, and how to submit.

Direct Deposit Laws

Can you require direct deposit? Rules vary by state. Some require paper check options.

Pay Stub Requirements

What must appear on a pay stub? Itemization rules differ by state. Penalties for non-compliance.

Payroll Frequency Requirements

How often must you pay employees? Weekly, biweekly, semi-monthly, or monthly — state rules vary.