I need a little information. I currently work alone, I am thinking about hiring an employee or two. what I'd like to know from anyone who has employees is what is the approximate cost per employee? ie; insurance, taxes, unemployment etc. I know you can only give an estimate, as some info will vary from state to state. I just want an idea so I can determine if I could afford to hire someone now or if I need to wait a little while. thanks for any information you can give.

Stephen: The long accepted general rule of is 30% times the gross wages, and this of course covers no benefits, just employer related requirements as you say, a little more or a little less depending upon the state, and some big cities have a separate payroll tax.