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What does a Payroll Representative do?

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

Published 3 min read

A payroll representative is responsible for ensuring that employees are paid accurately and on time. They may also be responsible for preparing reports and managing payroll records.

Payroll Representative job duties include:

  • Maintaining payroll information by collecting, calculating, and entering data
  • Updating payroll records by entering changes in exemptions, insurance coverage, savings deductions, and job title and department/division transfers
  • Computing employees' net pay based on time worked, deductions, and bonuses
  • Processing payroll checks and direct deposits
  • Balancing the payroll accounts by resolving discrepancies
  • Providing payroll information by answering questions and requests
  • Maintaining payroll guidelines by writing and updating policies and procedures
  • Completing special projects as assigned
  • Maintaining confidentiality of sensitive information
  • Performing other duties as assigned

Payroll Representative Job Requirements

The job requirements for a Payroll Representative vary depending on the employer. However, most employers require at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may require post-secondary education, such as an Associate's degree or certification in payroll or a related field. Many employers also prefer candidates with previous experience in payroll or accounting.

Payroll Representative Skills

  • Communication
  • Organization
  • Payroll
  • QuickBooks
  • Microsoft Office
  • Customer Service
  • Data Entry
  • 10 Key
  • Math
  • Bookkeeping
  • Attention to Detail

Related: Top Payroll Representative Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Payroll Representative

A payroll representative is responsible for ensuring that employees are paid accurately and on time. They may also be responsible for preparing and filing payroll taxes. To become a payroll representative, you will need to have excellent math skills and knowledge of accounting principles. You will also need to be detail-oriented and able to work with deadlines. Payroll representatives typically need at least an associate’s degree in accounting or a related field.

Related: Payroll Representative Resume Example

Related: Payroll Representative 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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