Payroll Qs & Indep. Cont. Qs--When I am doing payroll, how do I figure out the amount the employer has to pay?

Question

I have never done payroll where I have to figure out how much the employer owes for each pay period. I have figured out what the deductions are for the employees, but not for the employer. I think I read that it differs from company to company depending on the size of the company. Small and new companies pay less than well-established large companies. We are a small company in California with 2 employees (the other 2 people in the office are independent contractors). Can someone please help me figure it out?
Also, does a pay stub need to be attached to each check? And if so, can you just enclose a piece of paper with the check that shows all of the employee withholdings?
Lastly, I was misclassified as a Independent contractor last year and need to file a 1099 and my boss hasnt given it to me yet. I think I read that he was supposed to give a 1099 to me by Jan 31st. Will I be assessed a late fee??

Answer 1

As far as federal we are responsible for 7.65%, the other 7.65% is taxed to the employee as FICA-Medicare 1.45%, FICA-Soc. Sec. 6.2%. 1099's are responsible for all 15.3%. There is also State's unemployment and Federal unemployment (.08% up to the first $8500.00).

A paystub or detail reflecting how much they've been paid gross per pay period and year to date, all deductions (taxes, health care, retirement plans, etc.) is required in my state, you would have to find out for your own.

All 1099's and W2's must be postemarked by Jan. 31, not received. Many employer's think they are not supposed release the W2/1099 until Jan. 31.