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    Payroll Processing Checklist

    Every step of a compliant payroll run, from collecting timesheets through remitting federal and state taxes. Print, check off, and file each pay period.

    Why this matters

    Payroll is the highest-penalty area of small-business compliance. Trust-fund tax penalties are 100% of the amount owed and can be assessed against owners and officers personally.

    The IRS deposits schedule (monthly, semi-weekly, or next-day) is based on your lookback period. Missing a deposit deadline triggers automatic penalties even if the amount is correct.

    Payroll runs the same way every time. A checklist eliminates the errors that come from doing it from memory each cycle.

    How to use it

    1. Print or open the PDF at the start of each pay cycle.
    2. Work through the Pre-Payroll section 2-3 days before pay date.
    3. Complete the Payroll Run section on processing day.
    4. Complete the Post-Payroll section within 24 hours of funding.
    5. File the completed checklist with the pay register for four years.

    Frequently asked questions

    Want us to set this up for you?

    Our team will implement this template into your bookkeeping workflow, connect it to your accounting software, and train your team.

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