How to Legally Hire Your Kids in the Family Business This Summer: Tax Strategies & Compliance Tips

Summer break is the perfect time for business owners to introduce their children to the family enterprise, providing hands-on work experience and teaching them foundational financial skills. But beyond the valuable life lessons, employing your kids in your business can offer significant tax advantages—if you follow IRS guidelines and best practices in payroll and accounting.

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Key Tax Benefits of Hiring Your Children

  • Shifting Income and Reducing Self-Employment Tax: Reasonable wages paid to your children for age-appropriate jobs are a deductible business expense, reducing taxable income for your business. For sole proprietorships and partnerships where both partners are parents, wages paid to children under 18 are exempt from Social Security and Medicare taxes (FICA), as well as Federal Unemployment Tax (FUTA).
  • Utilizing the Standard Deduction: For 2024, your child can earn up to $14,600 before incurring federal income tax liability, allowing for tax-free earnings while lowering your business income—and family’s overall tax burden.
  • Retirement and Savings Opportunities: With earned income, your child can contribute to a Roth IRA, setting them up for future financial security.
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Compliance: Setting Up Payroll and Documenting Work

  • Job Duties Must Be Appropriate and Legitimate: Assign tasks that fit your child’s capabilities—administrative tasks, filing, updating social media, or basic bookkeeping are popular choices.
  • Pay a Reasonable Wage: Compensation must reflect market rates for the actual work performed. Overpayment can lead to IRS scrutiny.
  • Maintain Thorough Documentation: Keep timesheets, job descriptions, and payment records on file for audit support. Payments should be made via check or direct deposit, never cash, to maintain transparency.
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Unincorporated Businesses vs. Corporations

If you operate as a sole proprietorship or a partnership owned solely by parents, wages to children under 18 are not subject to FICA or FUTA taxes. However, if your business is an S corporation or a C corporation, payroll taxes apply regardless of the child’s age.

Professional Guidance is Key

Before welcoming your child onto the payroll, consult with a qualified accountant to ensure full compliance with labor and tax regulations. An experienced CPA or enrolled agent can help you maximize the tax-saving strategy while remaining IRS-compliant, making this summer’s family business experience rewarding for all.

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