Rhode Island Payroll Tax Registration

Jan 22, 2026

If you are an employer in Rhode Island who has recently hired an employee, you will need to register for payroll taxes with the state. This registration process ensures that you are compliant with state tax laws and able to withhold and remit the appropriate taxes for your employee.

Zero payroll penalties, zero distractions.

How Rhode Island Payroll Registration Works

There are 2 payroll tax setup tasks you may need to complete in Rhode Island to get your new hire on payroll for the first time. You can follow the guide below to help you get registered directly with the Rhode Island agencies or use Mosey to do it.

Rhode Island Unemployment Insurance Setup for PLLC, Professional Corporation, LLP, LLC, Corporation

If you have employees in Rhode Island, you are required to register for Unemployment Tax, which includes Rhode Island employment security, temporary disability insurance, and job development fund tax, with the Rhode Island Business Registration Division of Taxation.

  1. File the Business Application and Registration Form Online

    Register for Unemployment Insurance tax by filing the Business Application and Registration Form online if you haven't already done so. A sales tax account can also be added at initial registration. You will receive your Portal Identification Number (PIN) and Employer Account Number in the mail from the Division of Taxation within four weeks.

  2. Register for Electronic Unemployment Insurance Reporting

    Register for an account on the Employer Wage Tax Filing online system if you haven't already done so. You will need your Registration Account Number.

  3. Elect Reimbursable Payment Method (Nonprofits Only)

    Nonprofits who would like to opt for the reimbursable payment method must mail the completed Notice of Election of Reimbursement form to the Department of Labor and Training within 30 days of registering for an Unemployment Insurance account. The Department of Labor and Training will mail the form after you've submitted your Business Application and Registration.

  4. Register for a Tax Portal Account

    Register for a Tax Portal account if you haven't already done so. A temporary password will be emailed that is valid for 24 hours. To complete registration, you will also need your Portal Identification Number (PIN) from the Division of Taxation.

Rhode Island Withholding Tax Setup for PLLC, Professional Corporation, LLP, LLC, Corporation

If you have employees in Rhode Island, you are required to register for withholding tax with the Rhode Island Business Registration Division of Taxation. Note: Filing the Business Application and Registration Form will also register you for sales tax and Unemployment Insurance, including Rhode Island employment security, temporary disability insurance, and job development fund tax.

  1. File the Business Application and Registration Form Online

    Register for withholding tax by filing the Business Application and Registration Form online if you haven't already done so. A sales tax account can also be added at initial registration. You will receive your Portal Identification Number (PIN) and Employer Account Number (if it is determined that you are subject to Unemployment Insurance) in the mail from the Division of Taxation within four weeks.

  2. Register for a Tax Portal Account

    Register for a Tax Portal account if you haven't already done so. A temporary password will be emailed that is valid for 24 hours. To complete registration, you will also need your Portal Identification Number (PIN) from the Division of Taxation.

  3. Register for Electronic Unemployment Insurance Reporting

    Register for an account on the Employer Wage Tax Filing online system if you haven't already done so. You will need your Registration Account Number.

Rhode Island's Payroll Registration Agencies

More from the blog

Learn how to keep your business compliant in all 50 states across payroll, HR, Secretary of State, and tax.

North Carolina Labor Laws: Compliance Guide 2025

North Carolina labor laws are the foundation for employer-employee relationships throughout the state. These regulations protect workers’ rights while providing businesses with guidelines for maintaining fair and productive workplaces. Therefore, understanding NC labor laws helps both sides avoid disputes and ensures everyone knows their responsibilities and entitlements. For businesses, compliance means avoiding penalties and building a positive workplace culture. For workers, knowing their rights helps ensure fair treatment in all aspects of employment. So, on that note, let’s explore what you need to know about North Carolina’s labor landscape and how it impacts workplaces across the state.

Paul Boynton | Apr 1, 2025

How Many Pay Periods in a Year? A 2026 Payroll Guide

Managing employee payroll is vital to running a successful business. While many tasks are associated with payroll management and compliance, they’re all based on which employee payroll schedules you choose. Not all companies operate on the same pay schedule. While most companies pay their employees biweekly, that is not your only option as an employer. The best payroll schedule for your company depends on many factors, including but not limited to the size of your business.

Paul Boynton | Nov 19, 2025

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance (FCO) Compliance Guide

The San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance (FCO) was created with the belief that people deserve a second chance. It helps people seeking employment who may otherwise be disregarded for their criminal history. While employers are free to use their own criteria to decide which candidates are fit for an available position, the San Francisco FCO changes how an applicant’s criminal history can be utilized during the recruitment and interview processes.

Kaitlin Edwards | Aug 3, 2024

Ready to get started?

Schedule a free consultation to see how Mosey transforms business compliance.