Editorial standards

Our standards for researching, reviewing and correcting hiring cost estimates.

Who we are

We are an independent editorial team researching what hiring really costs US employers. We take no recruiter sponsorships, accept no referral fees and do not resell leads. Our purpose is to help readers plan a hiring budget, not direct them to a supplier.

How we build estimates

We use published government data, payroll tax tables, benefits surveys and practitioner reported figures. We separate statutory costs from costs that vary by employer and model estimates as ranges, not quotes. Our methodology explains the assumptions, exclusions and range logic behind the calculators. Readers should confirm their own rates before committing to a budget.

How often we update

Every page is reviewed at least quarterly, meaning every 3 months, and dated. Calculator, guide and state pages display their last review date below the heading. A review checks figures, assumptions and links, even when the conclusions have not changed. We also review affected estimates when we become aware of a relevant change.

Corrections

Readers can report an outdated figure through the contact page. Please include the page, the figure in question and a source or explanation where possible. We review reports and update outdated figures within 14 days. If a report does not support a change, we explain why. Corrections are acknowledged rather than treated as an opportunity to hide an error.

Independence

Display advertising funds the site, but no advertiser influences any estimate. Advertisers cannot pay to change a figure, select our assumptions or approve content before publication. We do not accept recruiter sponsorships, referral fees or lead resale. Editorial decisions are made for readers, independently of advertising.