Understanding the Latest Changes in Casual Employment in Australia Casual employment plays a crucial role in Australia’s workforce, providing flexibility for both employees and employers. However, recent changes in casual employment laws, implemented between 26 August 2024 and 26 February 2025 as part of the “Closing the Loopholes” legislation, aim to enhance clarity and security… Read more »
Polyglot Group Shines at the HR Summit 2025 Polyglot Group proudly represented at the HR Summit 2025, held on the 1st and 2nd of April at the ICC Sydney. Our vibrant booth was a hub of activity, where we connected with industry leaders, learned from other organisations, and shared our expertise. At the HR Summit,… Read more »
As the end of the financial year approaches, businesses are confronted with a multitude of tasks, with payroll management being one of the most critical and time-consuming. Managing payroll is a complex and tedious process that demands precision, adherence to tax laws, and a thorough understanding of employee benefits. For many businesses, the answer lies… Read more »
In the competitive landscape of modern business, attracting and retaining top talent is more crucial than ever. One effective strategy that Australian employers can leverage is salary sacrificing. Salary sacrificing, also known as salary packaging, allows employees to allocate a portion of their pre-tax salary towards various benefits, such as superannuation, vehicles, or electronic devices.… Read more »
Navigating the complexities of French labour laws can be a daunting task for international businesses. With a unique blend of regulations, including the 35-hour workweek, stringent employee protections, and comprehensive collective bargaining agreements, understanding these laws is crucial for any company looking to establish or expand its operations in France. This guide will provide you… Read more »
Australia’s regulatory landscape is known for its complexity and stringency, posing significant challenges for businesses. Navigating this environment requires not only a thorough understanding of the laws but also strategic foresight to anticipate and adapt to regulatory changes. In Australia, regulatory compliance spans across various sectors, each with its own set of rules and standards.… Read more »
As of 1 January 2025, wage theft in Australia is classified as a criminal offence. Employers must now navigate this new legal landscape to avoid severe penalties. Wage theft, including underpayment of wages and withholding entitlements, has been a persistent issue. The new legislation aims to ensure fair treatment of employees and holds employers accountable… Read more »
Announcement of Finalist Selection Polyglot Group is proud to announce that our CEO, Corinne Bot, has been selected as a finalist in this year’s French-Australian Excellence Awards 2024 in the Diversity, Inclusion & Gender Equality and High Impact Business & Leadership categories. Award Significance These awards are given for outstanding achievement by an enterprise led… Read more »
Celebrating Excellence in Munich: Double Recognition for Our Team Last week, Michelle, our Global Head of Payroll Services, had the pleasure of attending a special event in Munich. We’re excited to share that she brought back two incredible awards on behalf of our team. We received a Certificate of Achievement for Performance Excellence, highlighting our dedication… Read more »
Located in North America, the United States is the 3rd largest nation in the world.
The United States (US) comprise 50 states and 1 federal district. This includes Hawaii and Alaska, although they do not share geographical borders with the country.
The US does border separate nations Cuba, Canada and Mexico.
The US population is approximately 335 million (2020), which makes up just under 5% of the global population. High levels of immigration mean that it continues to grow, with a projected 417 million by 2060.
The nation has a density of 34 people per square kilometre and the most populated states are California, Texas and New York City.
Due to its history, the US has a very diverse and multicultural population.
The US has the world’s largest economy.
It represents about 20% of total global output. It is the world’s largest economy by nominal GDP and the second-largest by purchasing power parity (PPP).
The US is forecasted to remain at the top of the global economy and one of the world’s most powerful countries.
However, its main rival, China, is expected to surpass the US to become the world’s largest economy by 2032.
The US benefits from its trade relationships with many countries. Its main ties remain with Europe and Asia.
The United States is the world’s second-largest trading nation and is among the top three global importers and exporters.
In 2020, America’s import value is at 2.809 trillion and export value at 2.127 trillion.
Note that the recent US-China trade war continues to impact national and global trade relations.
US top imports are machinery (including computers), electrical machinery, vehicles, mineral fuels (including oil) and pharmaceuticals.
Pharmaceuticals had the fastest-growing increase in value among the top 10 import categories.
Six of the top 10 US imports also represent its top exports.
Top exports include machinery (including computers), mineral fuels including oil, electrical equipment, aircraft and spacecraft, and automotive vehicles.
As a key player in the international trade landscape, the US has free trade agreements with 20 countries
One of them is the NAFTA, The North American Free Trade Agreement. It was created in 1994 and is one of the largest trade blocs in the world.
Another agreement exists between Australia and America, by which US companies with Australian subsidiaries can trade with these countries with reduced or no tariffs (in specified industries).
Expanding to the US? Here is a breakdown of the key things to keep in mind.
Boasting the largest economy in the world, the US provides a very strategic and opportune environment to set up your business.
You don’t have to be a US citizen or to be a US resident or to have a green card to start an LLC or a corporation in America.
The first thing, as for every country, is to choose the right business setup for you. Then, you need to choose a state to register your company. Depending on your needs, some states might be more appropriate or convenient.
You must then complete the certificate of incorporation and get your Employer Identification Number. This number is necessary not just to hire workers, but to open a bank account, pay taxes, or often to get a business licence. It is free and you can apply directly with the IRS.
To simplify setup and ensure you are getting the right solutions for your business, consulting a local partner is very beneficial.
In the US, payroll tax is state-based. Every company must register for payroll tax in its state of formation.
There is no federal government standard regarding how frequently employees should get paid. Each state can implement its own law.
However, payroll regulations in the US do apply at both the state and federal level requiring employers to withhold income tax from wages.
Some of the taxes under payroll come under FICA taxes (Federal Insurance Contributions Act). These are taxes levied on both employers and employees and include Social Security and healthcare contributions.
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) provides guidelines to employers about employment and compensation. From one state to another, laws may vary.
The unemployment rate is at roughly 3.6% in 2019, forecasted to reach 3.8% by 2021.
Many employees work part-time and job opportunities have increased only in lower-paying retail and food service industries. The minimum wage is US$7.25 (2019).
Historically, the American population and society has always been shaped by immigration.
US work visas are broken into two main categories:
Popular work-related visa options include the E2, E1, L1, and H1B. For businesses wishing to set up in the US, this can be done at a low cost under the L1 intracompany transfer visa or E2 Treaty Investor Visa or E1 Treaty Trader visa scheme. Permanent residency comes at a higher cost.
Income tax is charged at both federal and state levels. At the federal level, rates range from 10% to 37% depending on earnings. At the state level, income tax is charged on employee earnings at rates set by individual state legislatures.