Question 1

Is PEO licensing required in New Hampshire?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every employee leasing company — the statutory term for a PEO — must be licensed by the New Hampshire Department of Labor under RSA 277-B and the administrative rules in Lab 1500. Lab 1503.01 provides that no person shall engage in the business of employee leasing without a license. Out-of-state companies may qualify for a restricted license under reciprocity conditions.

Question 2

What financial requirements do PEOs face in New Hampshire?

Accepted Answer

Under RSA 277-B:6, every application for issuance or renewal must carry an audited GAAP financial statement showing minimum working capital of $100,000, or, with the commissioner's approval, a surety bond, irrevocable letter of credit, or securities with a minimum market value of $100,000, increased by any working-capital deficit.

Question 3

How does licensing renewal work in New Hampshire?

Accepted Answer

Licenses run one year and renew at least 60 days before expiration, converting to two-year terms after five continuous years of licensure. Fees are $100 application and $500 annual. Client additions and terminations are reported within 20 business days, and a client list is due quarterly.

Question 4

What is the SUI taxable wage base in New Hampshire?

Accepted Answer

New Hampshire's 2026 taxable wage base is $14,000 per employee. The new employer rate is 2.7%, netting to 1.7% because the trust fund balance triggers a 1.00% Trust Fund Reduction. Experience-rated employers sit between 0.1% and 7.5%.

Question 5

What is the minimum wage in New Hampshire?

Accepted Answer

The minimum wage is $7.25 because RSA 279:21 ties the state rate to the federal minimum. New Hampshire does not mandate paid family and medical leave — the Granite State Paid Family and Medical Leave program is a voluntary insurance product.

Question 6

How does workers' compensation work with a PEO in New Hampshire?

Accepted Answer

Workers' compensation is a private-carrier market with no state fund. Coverage is written by a carrier with premiums based on NCCI classifications.

New Hampshire PEO FAQs: Licensing, Compliance, and Costs

Frequently Asked Questions