How to Become a Payroll Clerk

Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Payroll Clerk

What does a Payroll Clerk do?

A Payroll Clerk prepares and processes payroll and associated information. Collates and verifies data and inputs into the payroll system. Being a Payroll Clerk updates payroll records and processes routine changes to employee records. Performs basic reconciliation and auditing processes during each pay cycle. Additionally, Payroll Clerk responds to pay-related inquiries from staff. Researches and resolves errors or omissions. May prepare and submit reports and forms required by IRS or other regulatory bodies. Follows all processing procedures, adheres to policies, and maintains confidentiality. Typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Typically reports to a supervisor. The Payroll Clerk works under moderate supervision. Gaining or has attained full proficiency in a specific area of discipline. To be a Payroll Clerk typically requires 1-3 years of related experience.

People's Opinions on Payroll Clerk responsibilities

This payroll clerk sample job description can assist in your creating a job application that will attract job candidates who are qualified for the job.

11/24/2019: Huntsville, AL

And as your payroll grows, so does the need to hire support staff.

10/14/2019: New London, CT

Payroll clerks, also called payroll assistants, perform a wide range of duties, primarily focused on payroll processing.

10/12/2019: Chillicothe, OH

The duties of a payroll clerk are typically outlined in this way.

10/02/2019: Fayetteville, AR

As with other positions, payroll clerks should be expected to have two skill sets.

12/19/2019: Charleston, WV
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Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Payroll Clerk

Best tips for those who want to become a Payroll Clerk

Here are some tips to become a Payroll Clerk.

People's Opinions on best tips

Able to pass physical examination given in behalf of gainful employment within the facility.

11/27/2019: Florence, AL

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10/18/2019: Idaho Falls, ID

Monitoring and Enforcement; Termination.

11/14/2019: New Britain, CT

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12/26/2019: Portsmouth, NH

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11/12/2019: Battle Creek, MI
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Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Payroll Clerk

Best colleges and universities for Payroll Clerk

  • Florida Southern College
  • Colby College
  • Dartmouth College
  • University of Notre Dame
  • Western Washington University
  • Canisius College

Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Payroll Clerk

Is being a Payroll Clerk Worth it?

People's Opinions on lifestyles

Human Resources Payroll Coordinator jobsHuman Resources Payroll Coordinator jobs18 open jobs.

12/22/2019: Springfield, MA

Payroll Benefits Administrator jobsPayroll Benefits Administrator jobs18 open jobs.

11/29/2019: Binghamton, NY

The payroll clerk calculates all types of wages, including regular, overtime and supplemental wages, to arrive at employees’ gross earnings.

12/15/2019: New London, CT

To stand out among other job candidates, obtain certification through the American Payroll Association.

10/03/2019: Green Bay, WI

Start with Fundamental Payroll Certification, which does not require any payroll experience to take the exam.

10/31/2019: Provo, UT
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Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Payroll Clerk

What skills do you need to be a Payroll Clerk?

Every role has basic skill requirements for success, from supporting level roles to management roles.  These skills will be utilized daily within this role: Data Entry-Keyboarding, Direct Deposit Administration, Inquiry Research/Response, Paid time off tracking, Paycheck Distribution, Payroll Reconciliation, Payroll Tax Deposits, Payroll Tax Reporting, Timekeeping/Time Sheets, Timesheet Auditing.  They may seem basic, but some of the more fundamental skills required for this role include: Payroll Software, Travel & Expense Software.  When applying for this job, it is important to consider these skills, as well as any others you feel would be necessary to succeed.

People's Opinions on Payroll Clerk skills

Reveals the candidate's specific knowledge of payroll processing.

10/01/2019: Spokane, WA

knowledge of federal and state payroll regulations and requirements.

12/21/2019: Mobile, AL

If there are discrepancies in amounts paid versus amounts owed, the clerk needs to be able to resolve the issue quickly and accurately.

12/21/2019: Springfield, MO

Because these professionals have a strong and versatile set of skills and can work in any industry that has need of payroll processing, it’s a solid career choice in the financial services and administration field.

10/02/2019: Allentown, PA

As with other positions, payroll clerks should be expected to have two skill sets.

10/27/2019: Springfield, OR
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Step 6: View average salary for Payroll Clerk

How much does a Payroll Clerk make?

The average salary range for a Payroll Clerk is from $48,345 to $61,710. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.

Salary range for a Payroll Clerk
$48,345 to $61,710

Step 7: Find relevant Payroll Clerk jobs, and apply.

Looking for Payroll Clerk jobs?

Here are some Payroll Clerk jobs in the United States.

Search Payroll Clerk Jobs in the United States

Step 8: Explore Career Path of Payroll Clerk

Step 8: Explore Career Path of Payroll Clerk? Payroll Clerk II