TaxStache 2026 Employer Payroll Setup Checklist

This checklist is organized by timeline because order matters. Some obligations begin accruing before you run your first payroll. Some deadlines arrive faster than you expect. A few penalties are personal. Work through each phase in order and flag anything that needs professional guidance before you proceed.

Important reminder: Running payroll involves more than paying people. Federal, state, and, in some cases, local obligations all kick in simultaneously.