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What does a Payroll Consultant do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A payroll consultant is responsible for ensuring that an organization's employees are paid correctly and on time. They may also be responsible for preparing payroll reports and managing payroll records.

Payroll Consultant job duties include:

  • Advise clients on payroll processes and procedures
  • Interpret and explain payroll-related legislation to clients
  • Train clients on payroll software
  • Set up new payroll systems for clients
  • Convert existing payroll systems to new software for clients
  • Process payroll for clients
  • Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual payroll reports for clients
  • Reconcile client payroll accounts
  • Audit client payroll records
  • Assist clients with resolving payroll discrepancies

Payroll Consultant Job Requirements

A payroll consultant typically needs a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field. Certification as a Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) is also preferred. In addition, the payroll consultant should have several years of experience working in payroll or a related field.

Payroll Consultant Skills

  • Payroll
  • Tax
  • Accounting
  • Finance
  • Human Resources
  • Benefits
  • Time Management
  • Customer Service
  • Organization
  • Communication
  • Microsoft Office

Related: Top Payroll Consultant Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Payroll Consultant

A payroll consultant is someone who provides expert advice and guidance on all aspects of payroll management. They work with businesses to ensure that their payroll systems are efficient and compliant with all relevant legislation.

To become a payroll consultant, you will need to have significant experience working in payroll. This could be in an in-house payroll department or as a payroll provider. You will also need to have a good understanding of payroll legislation and best practice.

If you are interested in becoming a payroll consultant, the first step is to contact a professional body such as the Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals (CIPP). They can provide you with information about training courses and qualifications that will help you to develop the necessary skills.

Related: Payroll Consultant Resume Example

Related: Payroll Consultant Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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