What steps do I need to take in order to legally hire employees in Pennsylvania?

In order to legally hire employees in Pennsylvania, there are several key steps that an employer must take to ensure compliance with state and federal employment laws.

1. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS: Before hiring employees, an employer in Pennsylvania must obtain an EIN from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This unique nine-digit number is used to identify the employer for tax purposes.
2. Register with the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue: All employers in Pennsylvania are required to register with the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue for tax purposes. This includes paying state and local taxes such as unemployment compensation and workers' compensation insurance.
3. Verify the eligibility of all employees for employment: All employers in Pennsylvania are required to verify the eligibility of all employees for employment in the United States. This is typically done by completing Form I-9, which verifies the employee's identity and employment authorization.
4. Obtain workers' compensation insurance: In Pennsylvania, all employers are required to provide workers' compensation insurance coverage for their employees. This insurance provides medical and wage replacement benefits to employees who are injured on the job.
5. Comply with wage and hour laws: Employers in Pennsylvania must comply with state and federal wage and hour laws, including minimum wage and overtime requirements. Under Pennsylvania law, the minimum wage is currently $7.25 per hour, the same as the federal minimum wage.
6. Provide a safe working environment: Employers in Pennsylvania are legally responsible for providing a safe working environment for their employees. This includes complying with all applicable state and federal workplace safety regulations.

It is important to note that there may be additional requirements depending on the specific industry and type of employment. Employers in Pennsylvania should consult with a licensed attorney or employment law professional for specific guidance tailored to their unique situation.

In addition to the above steps, employers in Pennsylvania should also develop written policies and procedures for hiring, managing, and terminating employees. This can help to minimize legal risks and ensure compliance with state and federal employment laws.