Steven Hayes
Senior Finance Writer
BA Journalism
Steven Hayes is a senior finance writer covering taxes, payroll, and small-business finance. Steven has written hundreds of explainers helping workers and employers make sense of the rules.
Articles by Steven
IRS Tip Compliance Rate: What Tipped Workers Pay in 2025
There's no special IRS tip compliance rate — tips are taxed at ordinary brackets plus 7.65% FICA. Here's what tipped workers actually pay in 2025.
TTOC Codes for Salon and Spa Workers: Which Code to Use
Salon and spa workers fall under TTOC codes 601–607: stylists 603, nail techs 605, massage 602, skincare 601. How to pick the code and report it on the W-2
No Tax on Tips in 2026: What Every Employer Must Do Before Year-End
The OBBBA 'no tax on tips' provision is now in effect. Here's exactly what employers must do for 2026 W-2 reporting — deadlines, TTOC codes, and penalties explained.
TTOC Codes vs SOC Codes: What's the Difference?
TTOC and SOC codes both classify occupations, but they serve very different purposes. Here's what employers need to know about each.