The wage outlook for the first quarter of 2018 is encouraging, according to a survey released today by Express Employment Professionals.

The survey found 41% of businesses surveyed said they expect wages at their company to increase in the first quarter, up from only 34% in a previous survey on the outlook for the fourth quarter of 2017. Fifty-eight percent expect wages to stay the same, up from 65% in the prior quarter’s outlook, and those saying wages would decrease was unchanged at 1%.

“When 99% of companies expect steady or rising wages, it’s welcome news. And when a growing number of businesses plan to increase wages, it’s very good news,” Express CEO Bob Funk said. “Despite the many signs of economic health, many families feel their wages have risen too slowly over the last few years. But the tight labor market, economic confidence and lower taxes may finally lift wages for more workers.”

Express Employment conducted the survey in December 2017, the same month tax reform became law. It included 462 businesses, which are current and former clients of Express Employment Professionals.