Accounting & Finance
How to Set Up a Payroll: A Simple Guide for Startups
When you start a new business, there will always be a great deal to think about. But there is one thing you cannot overlook.
If you can’t get a grip on your payroll process, you could lose the talent you worked hard to acquire. Your employees work for you in exchange for compensation for their time and talents.
When you start out, you’re not going to be a payroll expert unless you’ve worked intimately with a payroll in the past.
Do you need to learn how to set up a payroll? Continue reading to find out more about how to do so.
Tips for How to Set Up a Payroll
Setting up payroll may not be as easy as it sounds. Many new entrepreneurs find themselves with a fundamental misunderstanding of the payroll process. The steps you need to take are as follows:
Employee Information and W-4s
In order to complete the necessary tax information, you need to have your employees’ information. This includes each employee’s social security number (SSN) or tax identification number (TIN).
Each employee should fill out a W-4. This will determine how much money you should withhold from each paycheck. You will withhold less money for those workers who have more allowances or dependents.
Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Every employer must have an EIN. You may need to apply for one with the IRS. This will serve as a sort of SSN for your business.
Know Your Dates
There are a few dates you need to keep in mind. You need to know when you pay your employees, when you pay your taxes, and when you file.
Mark your calendar and never forget these important dates.
Calculate and Withhold Taxes
Make sure to keep track of how much in taxes you should withhold from your employees’ paychecks.
You can use an IRS withholding calculator to determine how much federal and state tax you should withhold.
You may need to submit monthly tax deposits on the federal, state, and local levels.
Prepare and File All Tax Forms
You can never forget to file your tax returns each quarter and prepare your employees’ W-2s at the end of each year.
Issuing Paychecks
Some startups may choose to issue paper checks, even though the direct deposit is readily available. This is because paper checks may be cheaper for the time being.
Each paycheck should come with a paystub, which outlines employee wages, time, and withholdings. You may find a paystub generator to be a useful tool for this process.
Payroll Processing Doesn’t Need to Be Hard
At first, you may think payroll is an intimidating and overwhelming process. You’ll find there’s more to it than you originally thought.
There is more to learn about handling your business finances. From how to set up a payroll to managing your cash flow, you must know it all!
It’s time to sit down and do some necessary homework. To learn more about managing your finances, visit our section on accounting and finance.
