Whether they’re paid weekly, bi-weekly or monthly, ensuring that your employees are paid accurately and on time is one of a business owner’s top priorities. Payroll processing can be tedious and time-consuming, given the myriad of other responsibilities managers oversee. To ensure employees are paid on time, some firms outsource their payroll services. If you’ve been thinking about doing the same, below are several key questions to ask before hiring a provider.

Top 4 Questions to Ask a Payroll Service Provider

What types of services do you provide?

The best firms offer a wide range of payroll services. These include calculating state and federal income taxes, setting up direct deposit for salaried and hourly employees and keeping track of paid time off, vacation and sick or personal days. Go with a provider that also handles retirement, health, and life insurance benefit deductions.

Can my employees access their personal payroll data?

Seek out firms that provide the technology for employees to monitor their earnings. Company staffers should be able to access each paycheck stub and other pertinent information through a secure portal. Their payroll data should also be up to date with no lag times between paycheck periods.

How will your services benefit my business?

Companies are required to maintain accurate payroll information including taxes to remain compliant with state and federal employment agencies. Failure to do so could result in costly fines and penalties, especially if the information is not submitted by designated deadlines. Hiring a payroll service provider takes this critical burden off the shoulders of busy entrepreneurs. They can focus their attention on other areas of operations such as advertising and growth strategies.

How safe are your data centers?

Get specific and clear information about the security of the payroll provider’s data center. Because there is an abundance of employee data at stake such as Social Security numbers and birth dates, the system should contain layers of security protections. From restricted access and PINs to 24/7 camera surveillance, you want to ensure your payroll operation is safeguarded against unauthorized access.

Maintaining payroll should always be consistent, accurate, and efficient. Since 1992, Dianne M. Saunders, CPA in Litchfield, CT has helped a variety of businesses and non-profits by providing impeccable payroll services. She listens to her clients’ needs and tailors accommodations that are affordable and customized. If your company needs a payroll overhaul, give the agency a call at (860) 567-3022. Visit the website for information on her full suite of services, including tax return preparation and bookkeeping.