PAYCHEX INC

The N&G Committee is responsible for recommending candidates to the full Board to either fill vacancies or stand for election at each annual meeting of stockholders. The N&G Committee follows the Board’s Nomination Policy (the “Nomination Policy”), which is included in the N&G Committee Charter. The Board has determined that it is necessary for the continued success of the Company to ensure that the Board is composed of individuals having a variety of complementary experience, education, training, and relationships relevant to the then-current needs of the Board and the Company. The Nomination Policy directs the N&G Committee to consider nominees representing a multitude of perspectives and experiences and requires that any third-party search firm be instructed to include such nominees in the initial lists they prepare.

In evaluating candidates for nomination to the Board, including candidates for nomination recommended by a stockholder, the Nomination Policy requires N&G Committee members to consider the contribution that a candidate for nomination would be expected to make to the Board and the Company. This is based upon the current composition and needs of the Board, and the candidate’s demonstrated business judgment, leadership abilities, integrity, prior experience, education, training, relationships, and other factors that the Board determines relevant. When identifying candidates for nomination to fill vacancies created by the expiration of the term of any incumbent director, the Nomination Policy requires N&G Committee members to determine whether such incumbent director is willing to stand forre-election and, if so, to take into consideration the value to the Board and to the Company of their continuity and familiarity with the Company’s business. The Board has previously used a third-party search firm to identify director candidates, and the N&G Committee is authorized by its charter to continue this practice.

The Nomination Policy requires the N&G Committee to consider candidates for nomination to the Board recommended by any reasonable source, including stockholders. Stockholders who wish to nominate candidates for director must comply with the procedures set forth in the By-Laws, including sending timely notice in writing to the Secretary of the Company that includes the information and disclosure required by the By-Laws. For more information, see the subheading entitled “How do I submit a proposal for next year’s Annual Meeting?” in the Frequently Asked Questions section of this proxy statement.

Paychex, Inc. 2026 Proxy Statement• 20

Corporate Governance