Ideas
I'm not sure if this is a bug or by design, but wages only seem to be paid to employees who are part of your household.
I was playing the townies and had planned for Venessa Jeong to work as a bartender between acting gigs (not own a business).
I hired her to work the bar in Johnny Zest's small business "Open Mic" (and 2 other comedians to do comedy at the microphone or mentor Johnny), while patrons drink bar drinks and watch entertainment.
According to Johnny's financial records Venessa should've earned $2952 (a third of the employee wages) but her household funds don't reflect this.
EDIT by crinrict
Please use this thread for small businesses only.
There's a similar issue for vet (and potentially other businesses here): [CD] Vet: Employees not getting paid | EA Forums - 11952362