How to pay nail techs in Florida

It depends on how the work really happens, not on what you call it. If the salon sets her schedule, prices and services and provides the clients and supplies, she is more likely an employee. A booth renter who sets her own hours and prices and brings her own clients is more likely an independent contractor. The IRS and Florida look at the facts. This is general information, not tax or legal advice.

If they are employees, yes. Florida’s minimum wage is $15.00 an hour since September 30, 2026 (tipped employees $11.98 plus tips). If a commission employee’s pay for the week works out to less than minimum wage for her hours, the salon usually has to make up the difference. Check the current rate with the state. This is general information, not tax or legal advice.

Employees get a W-2 and the salon withholds and pays payroll taxes; Florida employers also pay state reemployment (unemployment) tax. Independent contractors paid enough in a year get a 1099-NEC from the salon (the reporting threshold rose to $2,000 for payments made in 2026). Florida has no state income tax. Your accountant or payroll service files these forms. This is general information, not tax or legal advice.

Tips belong to the tech. Card tips should be paid to the tech, and employees report their tips to the salon. This is general information, not tax or legal advice.

No. Nail Signature is not a payroll or tax service and never makes a 1099 or W-2. It adds up each tech’s services, commission, tips, supply fees and booth rent, so you and your accountant have clean totals. Salons can upload the real tax forms their accountant makes so each tech finds hers in the app.