This Payroll Setup Checklist is a step-by-step guide designed to help small business owners understand the foundational components of setting up and running payroll correctly. From getting your business payroll-ready and classifying workers properly to choosing a payroll system and staying compliant with tax filings, this checklist covers the essential tasks every employer should complete. Whether you’re paying yourself or a team, this tool will help you build confidence and clarity in managing payroll—while reminding you that compliance is key at every stage.