What does a Payroll Clerk do?
Payroll Clerks work within a company’s payroll or accounting department collecting employees’ payroll information to process and deliver paychecks. They’ll gather employees’ time sheets after each pay period and will verify that their payroll information and work hours are correct. Payroll Clerks use a software system to input basic data into the payroll system.
They’ll collaborate closely with employees to gather any important payment information or to answer any of their questions regarding their paychecks. Payroll Clerks will work carefully to calculate payroll information like taxes, deductions, bonuses, commissions and other payable hours. If any payroll issues or discrepancies occur, the Payroll Clerk must investigate and resolve them.
Payroll Clerk skills and qualifications
A proficient Payroll Clerk should have these skills to do their job well:
- Strong computer skills such as typing, system and software knowledge
- Knowledge of wage withholding orders
- Accurate data entry skills with great attention to detail
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, to communicate with employees regarding their issues and concerns
- Good client service skills
- Being an effective team player
- Sound decision-making skills
- Ability to multitask in a stressful environment with specific deadlines
- Ability to work independently in a time-sensitive environment
- Confidentiality and respect for the privacy of employee records
Payroll Clerk salary expectations
A Payroll Clerk makes an average salary of $16.92 per hour. Pay rate may depend on level of experience, education and the geographical location.
Payroll Clerk salary expectations
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Common salary:
21.44 HOURLY -
Typical salaries range from
9.60 -37.85 HOURLY - Find more information on Indeed Salaries
*Indeed data –
Payroll Clerk education and training requirements
Payroll Clerks aren’t subject to formal education requirements besides a high school diploma or GED, but certificate programs in bookkeeping and payroll administration are available. They can become certified through the American Payroll Association (APA) or get an official designation as a Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) or a Fundamental Payroll Certification (PFC) by taking an examination. Some companies favor candidates with an associate or bachelor’s degree in accounting or a similar field.
Payroll Clerk experience requirements
Entry-level Payroll Clerks generally start with little or no experience, while a mid-level Payroll Clerk usually has three to five years of relevant experience. The amount of experience you should require in your job listing depends on the seniority of the position and your organization’s needs.
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