This page provides essential information regarding key state-specific labor laws, employee rights, and compliance requirements for fully remote employees in North Carolina. Our goal is to ensure you have easy access to the necessary documents and information to understand your rights and obligations while working remotely in North Carolina.
Tax Withholdings
As a fully remote employee, you are responsible for ensuring the correct amount of federal and state income tax is withheld from your paycheck.
- Federal Income Tax: Complete Form W-4 (IRS) Employee's Withholding Allowance Certificate to figure the correct amount of federal income tax to have withheld from your paycheck.
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State Income Tax: As a fully remote employee working in North Carolina, you are required to complete Form NC-4, Employee’s Withholding Allowance Certificate. This form allows you to select your desired state income tax withholding. If you do not submit this form, your employer may be required to withhold at a default rate.
Please submit both completed forms to the Payroll Office via the secure Payroll Office FileSender.
Leave Policies
While North Carolina generally follows federal guidelines for leave (such as the Family and Medical Leave Act - FMLA, for eligible employees), the state does not have a mandated paid leave law. Remote employees would be subject to the same leave policies as in-office employees, based on employer policy and federal law.
Workplace Rights & Posters
Access important labor law posters and workers' compensation information relevant to employees in North Carolina. These posters provide a summary of various employment laws and worker protections.
Unemployment Benefits
Fully remote employees in North Carolina may be eligible for unemployment benefits if they meet the state's eligibility requirements. To qualify, you must have lost your main job through no fault of your own, have earned sufficient wages in the past 15 months (base period), be able and available to work, and actively look for new employment. You will need to register with NCWorks to look for a job and file weekly certifications.
For more information and to apply, visit the North Carolina Division of Employment Security (DES) website.
Important Note: This information is a summary and is subject to change. For complete details and the most current regulations, please refer to the official North Carolina Department of Labor website and consult with Lehigh University's HR and Payroll departments for specific guidance.