Payroll for one employee

What is the easiest payroll software to use?

There are dozens of payroll companies out there, all offering varying levels of usability. Some are more DIY while others may send a company representative to your business to train you on the product. The easiest solution for you will depend on your business’s unique needs.

How do I do payroll manually?

As opposed to using a payroll provider like ADP, processing payroll manually requires painstaking data entry, flawless recordkeeping and the ability to consistently meet deadlines. If you choose to do payroll this way, you’ll need to:

1. Agree upon a salary or hourly wage
2. Use a time clock or other means to track hours worked
3. Calculate gross wages
4. Deduct health care and any other pre-tax benefits you offer
5. Withhold income tax, FICA taxes and any state taxes that apply
6. Calculate employer contributions to FICA and unemployment tax
7. Deduct garnishments and post-tax benefits, if applicable
8. Pay your employee via check or direct deposit

Keep in mind that even with just one employee, there’s a chance you can make a mistake when processing payroll manually, which may result in fines from government agencies.

How much does payroll for one employee typically cost?

The price will hinge on which of the specific services your company requires, and elements such as integrations and related products can also affect price. It's worth keeping in mind that comprehensive payroll services generally save money in the long term—not to mention time. And with ADP, there are no fixed fees, no contract, and no need for an accountant, giving you ultimate flexibility, whether you’re paying yourself through an S corp or running payroll for another type of one-person business.

How long does it take to set up payroll for one?

If you have all the required documentation, you can self-onboard in just minutes and begin processing payroll days after that. This streamlined setup process stands out in an industry known for long lag times.

How do I set up payroll for one employee?

To run payroll for one employee, whether you’re doing it yourself or working with a payroll service provider, you’ll need:

• Employer identification number (EIN)
• State and local tax ID numbers, if applicable
• State unemployment ID number
• Employee’s I-9 and W-4 forms
• Employee’s state withholding allowance certificate
• Department of Labor records
• Defined pay periods

What kinds of owners typically use ADP for payroll for one-person businesses?

We are proud to support owners across a number of industries, including S corp owners as well as other one-person businesses that need to pay themselves correctly. Some of our payroll-for-one customers include financial services providers, those in the trucking industry, retail owners, and more. Whatever your business, ADP can help.

I hope to rapidly grow my business over the next several years. Can ADP still support me if I do?

Our products and services are designed to grow more robust as you bring on more employees. Along with payroll, our HR and hiring tools can help you manage a growing team.

What kinds of owners typically use ADP for payroll for one-person businesses?

We are proud to support owners across a number of industries, including S corp owners as well as other one-person businesses that need to pay themselves correctly. Some of our payroll-for-one customers include financial services providers, those in the trucking industry, retail owners, and more. Whatever your business, ADP can help.

Do you offer payroll for S corps as well?

Yes. Learn more about S corps here, or speak with one of our representatives to help you determine if designating your business as an S corp can benefit you.