Online Class: Behind the Paycheck — Mastering Payroll Systems

Payroll Management 101 turns complexity into clarity, equipping you to handle payroll with precision and purpose, ensuring both technical accuracy and human connection. It's about more than learning skills; it's about becoming a leader who ensures businesses thrive by valuing employees through timely and accurate payroll processes.

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  • 18
    Lessons
  • 20
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 221
    Students
    have taken this course
  • 8
    Hours
    average time
  • 0.8
    CEUs
 
 
 

Course Description

Imagine having the confidence and expertise to handle one of the most essential functions of any organization: payroll. It's not just about cutting checks or managing numbers-it's about creating seamless systems that empower businesses to thrive and employees to feel valued. Payroll management is the unsung hero of business success, and now, you can become its champion.

Welcome to Payroll Management 101, where precision meets purpose.

This course isn't just an opportunity to learn-it's a chance to transform your career, your business, and your future. Whether you're an aspiring professional, a seasoned HR veteran, or a small business owner wearing multiple hats, this course will provide you with the tools, strategies, and confidence to master payroll management like never before.

From navigating intricate tax codes to designing benefits packages that attract and retain top talent, Payroll Management 101 immerses you in the art and science of payroll. You'll gain a deep understanding of what it takes to maintain compliance, foster employee trust, and streamline processes-all while staying ahead of evolving regulations and technologies.

But what makes this course different?

It's not just the knowledge-it's the transformation. You'll leave with more than just skills. You'll gain clarity, confidence, and the ability to make a measurable impact. We've crafted this course to be your guide through the complexities of payroll, helping you turn what might seem like a daunting challenge into your personal superpower.

You'll learn to decode pay stubs, master deductions and benefits, and manage unique scenarios like remote work, contractors, and retirement plans with ease. And in today's digital-first world, we'll show you how to harness cutting-edge payroll software to streamline operations and minimize errors.

Yet, this course goes beyond technical expertise. Payroll is about people. It's about building trust, ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time, and creating systems that reflect a company's values. You'll understand how to balance the human and technological elements of payroll, becoming not just a technician but a true leader in the field.

Why wait? Start your journey today.

Payroll is the backbone of every thriving organization. Without it, businesses falter, and trust erodes. But with a skilled payroll professional at the helm, companies flourish. That professional can be you.

If you're ready to stand out, make an impact, and ensure every detail of payroll is handled with confidence and expertise, then Payroll Management 101 is your next step. Join us-and transform not just your skills, but your future.

  • Completely Online
  • Self-Paced
  • Printable Lessons
  • Full HD Video  
  • 6 Months to Complete
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Start Anytime
  • PC & Mac Compatible
  • Android & iOS Friendly
  • Accredited CEUs
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 
 

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.26 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(7,593 votes)

Lesson 1. The Art and Science of Payroll Management

Payroll professionals operate as unsung heroes within the organizational ecosystem, ensuring legal compliance while handling intricate details from tax withholdings to employee benefits. Their meticulous efforts help stabilize company operations, transforming payroll into a critical pillar of financial stewardship and administrative integrity. 10 Total Points
  • Lesson 1 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: 8900218rz53090.png
  • Lesson discussions: Payroll Course; Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Complete: Lesson 1 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 1 Exam

Lesson 2. Mastering the Art of Payroll Record-Keeping

Efficient record-keeping in payroll ensures that employees are paid accurately and on time, fostering trust and morale in the workplace. As technology progresses, digital payroll systems offer innovative tools for transparency and self-management, yet demand robust data protection strategies to mitigate risks. 10 Total Points
  • Lesson 2 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 2 Exam

Lesson 3. Strategic Record-Keeping in Modern Organizations

Employee records are integral to modern business, enabling efficient management and compliance. From contact details to work history, health compliance, and data protection, these records ensure operational success while fostering a secure and inclusive workplace culture. 9 Total Points
  • Lesson 3 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 3 Exam

Lesson 4. Beyond the Paycheck: Evolving Compensation Strategies

Modern payroll systems use technology for efficiency and security, revolutionizing the way wages are managed. On-demand pay and blockchain are reshaping salary payments to offer greater flexibility and transparency. 10 Total Points
  • Lesson 4 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 4 Exam

Lesson 5. From Subtraction to Contribution: Understanding Payroll Deductions

FICA deductions, comprising Social Security and Medicare taxes, ensure financial and health security for retirees and people with disabilities, with a notable cap on Social Security taxation but uncapped Medicare deductions even for high earners. 8 Total Points
  • Lesson 5 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 5 Exam

Lesson 6. From Gross to Net: The Intricacies of Pay Stubs

Pay stubs have evolved from mundane paperwork to interactive digital tools, promoting financial literacy and empowering employees to make astute financial decisions. By regularly engaging with these documents, individuals can ensure accuracy and optimize their financial strategies. 10 Total Points
  • Lesson 6 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 6 Exam

Lesson 7. Navigating Your Pay Stub: A Journey Through Your Finances

Pay stubs, often overlooked, provide a comprehensive snapshot of earnings, deductions, and financial health, akin to a tapestry with individual financial threads. Understanding the structure of these documents empowers employees to track finances, ensure tax compliance, and navigate complex financial scenarios. 9 Total Points
  • Lesson 7 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 7: Understanding the Pay Stub

Lesson 8. Unearthing Fiscal Responsibilities: A Deep Dive into Tax Considerations

Federal income tax forms a significant aspect of U.S. taxation, with allowable deductions and credits reflecting taxpayers' personal circumstances. For example, tax adjustments for dependents like John's can substantially lower liabilities, aligning tax payments with individual financial situations. 8 Total Points
  • Lesson 8 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 8 Exam

Lesson 9. Staying Ahead in Tax Compliance: Strategies for Employers

Employers must continuously update their tax strategies by staying informed on regulations and leveraging digital tools for tax filing and adjustments. By recognizing the importance of compliance education, businesses can foster a culture of financial responsibility and growth. 10 Total Points
  • Lesson 9 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 9 Exam: How to Determine Taxes

Lesson 10. The Strategic Benefits of Hiring Outside Contractors

Balancing traditional employment with external contractors allows companies to remain adaptable, leveraging diverse skills to drive innovation and growth. Clear contractor engagement strategies foster long-standing relationships with top-tier talent, setting the stage for future success in a hybrid workforce model. 10 Total Points
  • Lesson 10 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 10 Exam

Lesson 11. Flexibility in Crisis: The Business Case for Supportive Leave Policies

Different countries vary in their sick and maternity leave policies, with places like Sweden providing generous benefits that promote work-life balance, unlike the U.S. which offers limited unpaid leave under FMLA. Companies investing in robust leave policies see economic gains from reduced turnover and enhanced productivity, with examples like Spotify offering six months of paid parental leave. 9 Total Points
  • Lesson 11 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Sick Leave
  • Assessment: Lesson 11 Exam

Lesson 12. Understanding Modern Pension Dynamics

Pension schemes are continuously evolving amid shifting workforce demographics and economic conditions, necessitating modern strategies that ensure growth despite inflation and market volatility. Sustainable investment options appeal to younger generations, aligning ethical and fiscal goals within pension portfolios. 10 Total Points
  • Lesson 12 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 12 Exam

Lesson 13. Understanding 401(k) Contributions: A Deep Dive

Financial literacy is paramount, as understanding retirement plans enables employees to leverage available tools effectively. Educational initiatives and digital platforms support informed decision-making, fostering robust retirement planning. 9 Total Points
  • Lesson 13 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 13 Exam: How 401K Contributions are Calculated

Lesson 14. SEP and SIMPLE Plans: Simplicity Meets Opportunity

Employer-sponsored retirement plans, like 401(k)s, blend flexibility with tax advantages, enabling employees to grow wealth tax-deferred and tailor their savings journey. For individuals, understanding the rules of contributions and distributions is key to achieving a harmonious balance in long-term financial planning. 10 Total Points
  • Lesson 14 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 14 Exam: 401 Contributions

Lesson 15. W-2 Precision: Ensuring Payroll Accuracy and Accountability

Form W-2 has multiple copies serving different purposes: SSA submission, state/local taxing, and employee records. Employers must adhere to specific formatting and retention guidelines to ensure compliance. 10 Total Points
  • Lesson 15 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 15 Exam: Preparing and Filing Form W2

Lesson 16. From Check to Trust: Navigating Payroll's Complexities

Efficient payroll systems manage enormous transaction volumes across various compliance landscapes, sustaining workforce confidence in their financial security. Automation and technology like AI and blockchain are revolutionizing payroll processes to reduce errors and increase transparency. 10 Total Points
  • Lesson 16 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Payroll Errors
  • Assessment: Lesson 16 Exam

Lesson 17. Harnessing Payroll Software for Business Success: A Comprehensive Guide

As businesses scale up, payroll software becomes indispensable, offering scalability and seamless integration with HR systems to handle intricate payroll requirements. Despite its cost, the investment often proves advantageous, enhancing productivity and adherence to legal standards. 10 Total Points
  • Lesson 17 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 17 Exam

Lesson 18. In-House vs. Outsourcing: Decoding Payroll Choices

Modern payroll specialists leverage cutting-edge technology to streamline processes, mastering tools like AI-driven software for accuracy and real-time analytics. As their roles evolve, they contribute to strategic workforce planning by offering insights into labor cost management and predictive analytics. 105 Total Points
  • Lesson 18 Video
  • Lesson discussions: End of Course Poll; Program Evaluation Follow-up Survey (End of Course); Course Comments
  • Assessment: Lesson 18 Exam
  • Assessment: The Final Exam
267
Total Course Points
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Define payroll management.
  • Describe the requirements for record keeping.
  • Describe the requirements for retaining employee records.
  • Summarize salary payments.
  • Summarize deductions.
  • Summarize payslips.
  • Define tax considerations.
  • Describe dealing with outside contractors.
  • Describe handling sick and maternity leave.
  • Describe handling pensions.
  • Describe dealing with errors.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
  • View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
  • Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: Behind the Paycheck: Mastering Payroll Systems
Course Number: 8900218
Lessons Rating: 4.26 / 5 Stars (7,593 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: This course is fully available online in all 50 states, including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. It’s also offered in major English-speaking countries, such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Ireland.
Last Updated: June 2024
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Class
CEU Value: 0.8 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Instructor: Linda Zavadil
Syllabus: View Syllabus
Course Fee: $120.00 U.S. dollars

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Student Testimonials

  • "Considering that I was a payroll employee, this course was very interesting for me, the lessons are very accurate and above all I like that everyday topics are included, as well as mentioning that the role that we have is not easy. This course is well worth it." -- Antonella G.
  • "This course was great! Every topic was helpful and went in depth of each subject. Some of it I already knew, but there was a lot of things I didn't know." -- Janis F.
  • "This course was very helpful. I really appreciate the level of detail that was described in each lesson and video. Great layout, easy to navigate, responsive instructor. Just a fantastic experience all around." -- Thomas K.
  • "This course was immensely helpful. Good information." -- Nikki W.
  • "The course is quite comprehensive. It's helpful, and informative." -- Kazeem S.
  • "In general, the course and the instructor were great." -- Anna N.
  • "This course was very helpful in helping me to understand the in and out of the payroll department." -- Alicia J.
  • "This course and instructor both helped me immensely!" -- Deanne C.
  • "I really enjoyed the class as well as the feedback on all of the tests and assignments." -- Anjila O.
  • "Love to learn and you just helped me a lot. Thank you very much!" -- Karen O.

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