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How does payroll work for your first employee?

verified Last reviewed 1 Jul 2026Rates current as of config 2026.2
bolt The short answer

Every payday you must work out tax and National Insurance, report the pay to HMRC on or before the day you pay, and give an itemised payslip — however you pay, including cash.

Every payday you must work out tax and National Insurance, report the pay to HMRC on or before the day you pay, and give an itemised payslip — however you pay, including cash.

The full plain-English guide is being written and reviewed. Meanwhile, the official guidance below covers the essentials, and the FirstEmployer app walks you through this step with the exact law on screen.

This guide is being expanded and solicitor-reviewed. The answer above is current as of config 2026.2.