💡 W2 vs. 1099 — What Stylists Need to Know

As a stylist working in a salon, you’re providing services to guests within that salon’s brand. The salon supplies everything you need and markets to bring guests into your chair.

👉 This makes you an employee, which requires a W2 tax document.

If a salon gives you a 1099, that means you’re being treated as a booth renter — even if you’re not set up that way. Salons using this practice are avoiding paying taxes on wages and instead placing that burden on the stylist.

✨ Why W2 matters:

• Stability + predictability in your income

• Regular paycheck to support budgeting + financial planning

• Employer-paid taxes, removing hidden costs from your shoulders

• Long-term financial security vs. short-term gains

Misclassification is more common than many stylists realize. Protect yourself and your career by understanding the difference.You can read more about classification from the IRS here:

https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/independent-contractor-self-employed-or-employee

💡 The Truth About Commission

On social media, the hottest question is: “Who’s paying the most commission?”

But commission alone doesn’t tell the whole story. Compensation + career growth are what truly matter for a successful, long-term career.

Here’s why:

• “More” commission can be misleading. An extra 5% means nothing if you’re working with less guest demand, fewer new guests monthly, and lower retention. That’s more time marketing yourself and less time behind the chair doing what you love.

• Misclassification is common. Some salons advertise high commission while skipping legal obligations — like paying employer taxes. This puts the burden on the stylist and can create major financial stress later.

• Career support matters. Ongoing education, marketing support, guest retention strategies, and a healthy team culture often impact your paycheck and peace of mind more than a number on paper.

✨ At Mint Hair Crafting, we believe in sustainable careers — not quick fixes. Our structure is designed to give stylists consistency, growth, and a supportive environment where you can thrive.

🌿 Our Compensation at Mint

At Mint Hair Crafting, our compensation is inclusive of everything you need to succeed behind the chair.

That means:

• All color + treatment products

• Backbar + styling tools

• Guest amenities (like warm towels + head spa rituals)

• Marketing + new guest flow

• Ongoing education + training

You focus on delivering an exceptional guest experience — we handle the rest.

💵 Compensation at Mint Hair Crafting

We are a legit, legal W2 salon — which means we pay taxes on your wages and your tips where applicable.

Here’s how pay works at Mint:

• Biweekly payroll with direct deposit

• Hourly wage guarantee OR commission bonus (whichever is higher)

• Biweekly service goals help you unlock higher commission bonuses and maximize earning potential

• Daily gratuity payouts on credit card tips through Tippy

✨ This structure gives our stylists stability, transparency, and growth potential — so you can focus on doing what you love, not worrying about inconsistent income.

• 🌿 Benefits of Working at Mint Hair Crafting

  ✨ Paid Time Off
  Structured PTO based on hours worked — time to rest, recharge, and enjoy life outside of the salon.

  ✨ Retirement Savings
  Matching IRA contribution after your first year to help build a secure future.

  ✨ Tool Support
  Annual support for maintaining your professional toolkit so you always have the right tools for your craft.

  ✨ Ongoing Education
  In-salon workshops + external classes to grow your skills, stay on trend, and expand your earning potential.

  ✨ Career Path & Growth
  Clear goals, regular reviews, and opportunities for price adjustments, leadership roles, and skill mastery.

  ✨ Supportive, Inclusive Culture
  A collaborative, respectful team environment where both stylists and guests feel valued.

  ✨ Wellness & Sustainability
  A salon culture built around stylist wellness, guest comfort, and eco-conscious practices.

• Education & Workshops — Workshops and educational resources are provided 4 to 8 times a year. This ongoing investment in skill enhancement contributes to your career growth and increased earning potential.

• Career Path & Growth Opportunities — We offer clear performance goals, regular reviews, and opportunities for role expansion, leadership, and price adjustments based on skill mastery and consistency.