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What do I need to do before hiring my first employee?

Short answer

Get an EIN, register with your state for payroll taxes, get workers’ comp insurance, and set up payroll.

Rules differ by state. This is general information, not legal or professional advice.

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Official sources

SBA: hire and manage employeessba.gov
IRS: apply for an EINirs.gov
USCIS: Form I-9uscis.gov
U.S. Department of Labor: wages and hoursdol.gov