What payroll deadlines should employers track?

Payroll Tax Deadlines for Employers in Oklahoma

Employers in Oklahoma must track several key payroll tax deadlines to maintain compliance and avoid penalties. These deadlines involve federal and state tax obligations related to employee wages.

Federal Payroll Tax Deadlines

• Federal Income Tax Withholding, Social Security, and Medicare Taxes: Deposit schedule depends on your total tax liability. Most employers deposit taxes either monthly or semi-weekly. Use the IRS Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) for payments.
• Form 941 (Quarterly Federal Tax Return): Due by the last day of the month following the end of each quarter:
  • April 30
  • July 31
  • October 31
  • January 31
• Form W-2 and W-3: Must be filed with the Social Security Administration by January 31 each year, reporting wages paid and taxes withheld in the previous year.

Oklahoma State Payroll Tax Deadlines

• Oklahoma Withholding Tax: Employers must withhold state income tax from employee wages and remit payments to the Oklahoma Tax Commission (OTC). Deposit frequency is based on the amount withheld:
  • Monthly deposits are due by the 15th of the following month.
  • Quarterly filers must submit payments and returns by the last day of the month following the quarter.
• Oklahoma Unemployment Insurance (UI) Tax: Reports and payments are generally due quarterly, on or before the last day of the month following the end of each calendar quarter.

Operational Tips for Managing Payroll Deadlines

• Automate payroll tax payments and filings through payroll software or third-party providers to reduce errors and ensure timely submissions.
• Maintain accurate payroll records including employee classifications, hours worked, and wage rates to support tax filings and audits.
• Set internal reminders a few days before each deadline to prepare and review payroll tax reports and payments.
• Stay updated on changes to federal and Oklahoma tax rates or deadlines, as these can change annually or due to legislation.

As of 2026, regularly consult the IRS and Oklahoma Tax Commission websites for the latest payroll tax deadline information to ensure ongoing compliance.