Payroll clerk job description
/A payroll clerk is responsible for paying employees, as well as the operation of the timekeeping system. In this role, the clerk is accountable for collecting timekeeping information, incorporating a variety of deductions into a periodic payroll , and issuing pay and pay-related information to employees.
Principal Accountabilities
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Collect and summarize timekeeping information
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Obtain supervisory approval of time card discrepancies
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Obtain overtime approvals
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Calculate commissions
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Process garnishment requests
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Process employee advances and paybacks
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Update employee payroll records as needed
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Process and close periodic payrolls
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Print and issue paychecks
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Process direct deposit payments
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Process paycard payments
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Calculate and deposit payroll taxes
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Process employment verifications
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Process and issue annual W-2 forms to employees
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Process and distribute reports for compensation , taxes paid, garnishments, and deductions
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Ensure that the timekeeping system is operating properly
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Answer questions from employees related to payroll topics
Payroll Clerk Experience Requirements
A payroll clerk is usually expected to have minimal experience when first starting in this position. Conversely, a mid-level payroll clerk would be expected to have at least three years of payroll processing experience. You should set the required experience level to match the processing requirements and software knowledge needed to operate your payroll system.
Supervises
None
Related AccountingTools Courses
FAQs
What is the Difference Between a Payroll Clerk and a Payroll Specialist?
A payroll clerk primarily handles routine payroll tasks such as data entry, timekeeping, and issuing paychecks under direct supervision. A payroll specialist takes on more complex responsibilities, including ensuring compliance with tax laws, managing payroll reporting, and resolving discrepancies. Specialists typically require more experience or education and may serve as intermediaries between payroll staff and management.
