Register as an employer before your first hire
If you're taking on your first employee, you'll need to register as an employer with HMRC before their first pay day. This needs to happen in good time, not on the day they start.
Set a payroll schedule that suits your business
Weekly, fortnightly, and monthly are all common. Whatever you choose, consistency matters more than frequency. Employees rely on knowing when pay will land.
Understand PAYE and Real Time Information
Each time you run payroll, HMRC needs to be told what's been paid through Real Time Information (RTI) submissions. Getting this right on time avoids penalties and keeps employee tax records accurate.
Check whether auto-enrolment applies
Most employers have automatic enrolment duties for eligible staff. These duties start from an employee's first day, so it's worth understanding them before, not after, your first hire.
Keep it confidential and consistent
Payroll touches sensitive personal information. Whether run in-house or outsourced, a consistent and confidential process builds trust with your team as it grows.
