What does a Payroll Associate do?
Published 3 min read
A payroll associate is responsible for ensuring that employees are paid accurately and on time. This involves maintaining records of hours worked, calculating wages, and withholdings, and preparing and issuing paychecks. The payroll associate may also be responsible for preparing reports to submit to government agencies.
Payroll Associate job duties include:
- Maintain payroll information by collecting, calculating, and entering data
- Update payroll records by entering changes in exemptions, insurance coverage, savings deductions, and job title and department/division transfers
- Prepare reports by compiling summaries of earnings, taxes, deductions, leave, disability, and non-taxable wages
- Determine payroll liabilities by calculating employee federal and state income and social security taxes and employer's social security, unemployment, and workers compensation payments
- Resolve payroll discrepancies by collecting and analyzing information
- Provide payroll information by answering questions and requests
- Maintain employee confidence and protect payroll operations by keeping information confidential
- Prepare special reports as requested
- Audit timekeeping records to ensure accuracy of hours worked
- Process garnishments and levies per court order
Payroll Associate Job Requirements
Most payroll associates have at least a high school diploma, although some employers may prefer candidates with an associate’s degree or higher in business or accounting. Payroll associates must be detail-oriented and able to work independently with little supervision. They must also have strong computer skills and be proficient in using payroll software. Prior experience working in payroll is often required, and some employers may prefer candidates who are certified payroll professionals.
Payroll Associate Skills
- Analytical skills
- Attention to detail
- Organizational skills
- Communication skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Time management skills
- Computer skills
- Math skills
- Accounting skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Research skills
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How to become a Payroll Associate
A Payroll Associate is responsible for ensuring that employees are paid accurately and on time. They may also be responsible for maintaining employee records and preparing reports. To become a Payroll Associate, you will need to have strong math skills and be detail-oriented. You should also be able to use computers to enter data and generate reports.
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