Choosing the Right Payroll Service Provider

Choosing the Right Payroll Service Provider

You may have come to a time in your small business where you now need to run payroll to pay your employees or yourself. And maybe that is why you are here – You are looking into your payroll service provider options so that you can run payroll accurately and with ease.

Good, we have some tips on how to choose the right payroll service provider.

But first, let’s cover the basics.

What is payroll?

We are sure you know what payroll is. It is how you pay your employees (duh), but did you know everything that actually goes into running payroll besides just paying your employees?

  • Filing employment taxes
  • Tracking worked hours
  • Calculating wages
  • Withholding taxes and other deductions
  • Paying government employment taxes
  • Quarterly Filings – 941’s

Sounds a lot more than you originally thought? Yep, for this reason many business owners end up saying F-it and find themselves a payroll provider, which can also be a huge time saver, leaving more time to work on more important aspects of your business.

So, when looking for the right payroll service provider for your business, you will want your payroll processing to be:

  1. Convenient
  2. Hassle-free
  3. Affordable

But some things that tend to be overlooked when choosing a payroll provider is a company that will not only run your payroll accurately, but also work closely with your accountant.

Why should your payroll provider work closely with your accountant?

Good question! Not many people realize how integral payroll is when it comes to accounting and tax planning. For that reason, it is best to work with an accountant backed payroll provider.

  • Payroll can be a huge part of tax planning – That’s right! Depending on your tax filing status, payroll can be a main tax saving tool used during tax planning. Timing is also a huge factor, so if you did your tax plan with your accountant and decided to use a certain tax credit, but your payroll company already applied one through your payroll, you can miss out on a credit that could have been more beneficial and overall saved you more money. This is also something hard to go back and fix, so it is best to use someone who will get it right the first time.
  • Payroll affects your bookkeeping – To complete your bookkeeping it is necessary to gather all payroll statements. This task may be simple, but it can add up, especially because most accountants bill by the hour. By having your accountant as your payroll provider, they already have your statements, which means they are spending less time on your books. Meaning, in the end you will save your business some money by bundling all your services.
  • Payroll backed by accountants means you never have to worry if you are in compliance with tax laws and regulation – well because it is accountants’ job to stay updated! So, when there are updates to any payroll tax laws or regulations you will have confidence that your payroll is complying. Saving you from paying hundreds in unnecessary fines each year. Remember unnecessary expenses take away from your profit – and as a business owner you want to save every penny you can!

Therefore, working with a full-service accounting firm comes in handy. They are the ones doing your bookkeeping, tax planning, and running your payroll – they know the ins and outs of your business and have full knowledge to guide you in running a tax and profit efficient business! On top of that it is just plain easier, you call once office for all your business needs!

Download our checklist7 important questions to ask when searching for a payroll provider.

This way you will know everything you need to know to make the best decision for your business and choose the best payroll provider for your needs.

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Melanie Jerome, MBA

SENIOR STAFF ACCOUNTANT, FLORIDA

Meet Melanie J, one of our senior staff accountants! Melanie ensures your financial health with precision and expertise. Beyond the office, she’s a true crime enthusiast who loves traveling and outdoor adventures. Whether she’s balancing books or exploring new trails, MJ’s dedication and skill set the standard for excellence in our team.

Seren Lunsford, MBA

STAFF ACCOUNTANT, INDIANA, QUICKBOOKS ONLINE PRO-ADVISOR

Meet Seren, one of our dedicated staff accountants here at level accounting! She is responsible for bookkeeping & payroll. Outside of the office, you can find her on the sidelines of a soccer pitch, karting track, or baseball diamond, cheering on her two active boys. Seren is also a proud owner of two gentle giants, her beloved Great Danes. In her downtime, she channels her creativity into baking and decorating sugar cookies, always eager to experiment with new baked goods ideas and recipes. With her expertise in accounting and her passion for family, pets, and baking, Seren brings a unique blend of professionalism and warmth to our team.

Ivette Rivera

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT, FLORIDA

Ivette Rivera is our Executive Assistant at Level Accounting, juggling schedules and keeping things running smooth.

When she’s not crushing it at work, Ivette is an avid participant in her church community. As a mom, she’s all about those quality moments, whether it’s baking up a storm, hitting the water for some kayaking fun, or just chilling with a good book or binge-worthy show. And let’s not forget her partners in crime at home: Harley Quinn, the fridge-raiding pit bull, and Atlas, the cat who rules the roost. Ivette’s all about that balance between work hustle and personal bliss.