Glossary · Compliance
What is State registration
Definition
Registering with a state to withhold payroll taxes and, in some states, to operate as a staffing agency. Required where your worker performs the work.
Applies to: US · Reviewed by James Doyle
In practice
Payroll tax registration follows the worksite, not your office. One placement in a new state usually triggers withholding registration, unemployment insurance and workers' compensation coverage there.
A handful of states also license or register staffing and nurse-staffing agencies specifically — healthcare is the most regulated niche in the US market.
Related terms
EOR
An employer of record legally employs a worker on your behalf in a jurisdiction where you have no entity, handling payroll, tax and compliance.
ReadWorkers' compensation
Mandatory insurance covering workplace injury. Premiums are set by state and job class code, and form a large part of employment burden in manual niches.
ReadNurse staffing licence
A state-issued licence or registration required to supply nursing and allied healthcare staff. Rules, fees and bonding requirements differ by state.
ReadPut the theory to work.
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