Payroll services: a guide for pros

What customers ask, how to win the job, and what to put on your profile.

Offering payroll services

Owners want payroll done right without thinking about it. Clear responsibilities and reliable deadlines win their trust.

What customers ask

  • Do you file my payroll taxes?
  • What if there is a mistake?
  • Can you handle several states?
  • How do employees get pay stubs?
  • How do I switch from my current provider?

How to win the job

  • Ask about number of employees, pay schedule and states during the first call
  • State plainly who files and who is responsible if a filing is late
  • Provide a switch checklist for owners moving from another provider
  • Describe your deadline calendar for the customer
  • Explain how you protect employee information
  • Refer classification questions to a CPA or attorney

What to put on your profile

  • Services: payroll runs, tax filings, year end forms
  • Industries and pay types you handle
  • States you support
  • Support hours and contact method

Follow-up that helps the customer

  • Send a payroll calendar with deadlines
  • Offer a year end review before forms go out
  • Remind owners of new hire paperwork steps

Licenses and permits

No license is typically required, but follow rules on handling client funds and filings. Check state requirements for payroll service providers.

Questions

Can I tell an owner how to classify a worker?

Not as legal or tax advice. Suggest review by a CPA or attorney.

What belongs in the agreement?

Services, filing responsibility, schedule, data protection and how to leave.

Pro reviewers

Pros who offer payroll services remotely can improve this guide, like Wikipedia. We check every edit before it goes live. Every approved edit is credited in the edit history and on the pro's profile.

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About this guide

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