You must withhold the right amount of taxes on employee wages when paying employees. But what if you need to pay an independent contractor? To keep tax information straight between independent contractors and employees, you need to know the difference between Form W-9 vs. W-4. Read on for the scoop.
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Paying Employees - Tips, Training, and News
How to Set up Payroll for a Small Business
Hired your first employee? Check. Set a start date? Check. Ready to process payroll? Not quite yet. Before you can start paying your employees, there are a few steps you need to know and some terms to learn. This handy payroll 101 guide explains how to set up payroll the right way so you can […]
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How to Maintain Payroll Accuracy During Periods of Rapid Hiring
Key Takeaways − Rapid hiring multiplies payroll complexity and the risk of mistakes. Standardize processes, use checklists, and centralize data to maintain accuracy. The right payroll software can automate calculations, taxes, and onboarding tasks. Regular audits, clear roles, and training keep errors from snowballing as you grow. Why payroll gets risky when you are hiring […]
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When Is Rounding Employee Time Illegal?
Key Takeaways − You can round employee time in some cases, but it must be neutral, not one-sided. Federal law (FLSA) allows rounding in small increments (e.g., 5, 6, or 15 minutes) if it does not consistently favor the employer. Rounding is illegal when it regularly shortchanges employees, especially minimum wage or overtime pay. Some […]
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Payroll Data Security in 2026 and Beyond: How Small Businesses Can Stay Protected
Key Takeaways − Payroll data is a top target because it contains sensitive details like Social Security numbers, bank info, and salary history. In 2026, the primary threats to small businesses are phishing, weak passwords, unsecured remote access, and human error. You don’t need a massive budget to stay safe; prioritize multi-factor authentication, encryption, and […]
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How Cloud-based Payroll Facilitates Remote Work and Mobile Access
Key Takeaways − Cloud-based payroll lets you run payroll from anywhere with internet access (no office, server, or VPN needed). Your team can view pay stubs, update info, and access tax forms from their phones or laptops. Cloud systems typically offer automatic updates, data backups, and bank-level security. Desktop payroll ties you to one computer […]
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Top 7 Must-Have Payroll Software Features for Your Business
Payroll has a lot of moving gears. From collecting time cards to withholding taxes, it can be, well, a lot. To simplify your payroll responsibilities and put more time back into your day for other tasks, you may consider getting payroll software. But, what’re the kinds of payroll system features you need to look out […]
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Hidden Costs of Desktop Payroll Software: Maintenance and Upgrades
Key Takeaways − Desktop payroll looks cheap upfront, but maintenance, upgrades, and IT support add up fast. Hidden costs include hardware, backups, security, patches, and time spent installing updates. Cloud-based payroll shifts work off your plate: updates, backups, and security are handled for you. If you’re spending too much time “babysitting” payroll software, it may […]
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Security Showdown: Cloud Payroll vs. Desktop Software
Key Takeaways − Cloud payroll stores your data on secure, remote servers you access via the internet. Desktop payroll stores data on your own computer(s). Cloud vendors typically provide encryption, backups, and automatic updates. Desktop gives you physical control, but you’re also responsible for backups, updates, and security. Most small businesses today opt for cloud […]
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Restaurant Payroll, Simplified: The Best Payroll Process for Restaurants
Quick Answer: To run restaurant payroll, collect timesheets and tip reports, calculate gross pay (including overtime, multiple rates, and tips), apply withholdings and employer taxes, and pay employees on a compliant schedule. For tips, require monthly reporting (at least $20 in tips) and withhold FICA and income tax; consider the FICA tip credit (Section 45B). […]
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