Toast Payroll: Use Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Codes

In this Article:

• Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Codes
• Employees Without SOC Codes
• Assign or Change SOC Codes

Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Codes

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes are assigned to employees to classify them into occupational categories for the purpose of collecting, calculating, or disseminating data. Since the last revision in 2018, there are 867 different SOC codes that a business can assign to its employees. Many Toast restaurants designate employees with an SOC code from the 35-0000 Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations section. However, you should review with an attorney or other professional for guidance on the appropriate code for your state/business.

Note: SOC codes are different than Risk Class Codes (RCCs), Washington L&I codes, and North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes.

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Employees Without SOC Codes

If you operate a restaurant in a state that requires an SOC code at the time of tax filing, but have not designated your employee with an SOC code in Toast Payroll, Toast Payroll will default your employees to the following SOC code: 35-3031 Waiters and Waitresses. These codes will not appear on their Toast Payroll position and they should not be considered a replacement for designating an SOC code for your employees. See instructions on how to assign your employees an SOC code below.

Assign or Change SOC Codes

An SOC code is stored within an employee's  page.

1. Navigate to an employee's profile and select the > carat icon next to the primary job in the Jobs & Pay tile.
2. Select Edit to open the Position Details page.
3. Enter a Reason at the top of the page.
4. Now locate the SOC Code drop-down menu, just above the Pay section. 
   
   
   
   
5. Make your edits to this field and select the Submit button to finalize the change.
6. The 35-0000 category contains several common codes that restaurant employees may align to. This is a good place to start searching for SOC codes for food and drink hospitality occupations.

This content is for informational purposes and is not intended as legal, tax, HR, or any other professional advice. Please contact an attorney or other professional for advice.