Understanding Hourly Compensation with ADP
Hourly compensation is a payment structure where employees receive pay based on hours worked rather than a fixed salary. This is common for non-exempt employees, part-time staff, and contractors. In the United States, the federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour, although many states have higher minimums. For instance, Washington, D.C. has set its rate at $17.95 per hour as of January 1, 2026.
Accurate calculation of hourly rates involves understanding the difference between gross and net pay. Gross pay refers to total earnings before deductions, while net pay is what an employee takes home after taxes and other withholdings. Using ADP’s payroll system can help ensure these calculations are precise, accounting for federal and state deductions, such as FICA taxes and state unemployment taxes.