Average Payroll Assistant Salary

Job Description for Payroll Assistant

A payroll assistant typically works either in the human resources or accounting department of a company. A person in this position assists with all aspects of payroll and related employee recordkeeping and storage. Much of a payroll assistant’s work involves data entry, and familiarity with basic computer programs is required, along with accuracy and attention to detail.

Additionally, payroll assistants help process new employees by handling new hire paperwork. This typically involves working with federal and state work eligibility and tax withholding documents. Many companies also have new employees fill out various benefits paperwork, as well as documentation related to tax credit benefits the company may receive for hiring them; this paperwork is typically entered into various computer databases so proper withholding, exemptions, and pre-tax deductions are taken from employee paychecks.

Because existing employees' needs may change, payroll assistants also help process changes to income tax withholding, any new benefits, and changes to existing benefits that the employee submits to the human resources department. Payroll assistants may also be tasked with storage of original employment documents, including resumes, applications, and original new-hire paperwork. Additionally, payroll assistants can be tasked with tracking information such as earned vacation or time off.

Most companies look for payroll assistants who possess office administration vocational training or previous work experience. Payroll assistants must possess excellent organizational skills, and they should expect to work regular business hours. (Copyright 2019 PayScale.com)

Payroll Assistant Job Listings