Is it time to start using payroll software?

25 January 2024

Payroll, it’s important to get it right but often that’s easier said than done! It's easy to underestimate the importance of a well-functioning payroll system, especially when caught up in day-to-day operations of the business. However, having a well-functioning system keeps your employees from becoming disgruntled or unhappy, and helps reduce administration tasks for you and your staff. 


There are many online payroll systems available to help manage employee payments and benefits, ranging from the cheap and simple to fully dedicated software suites. We can deliver hands-on assistance with payroll, or help establish and train your employees in how to get the most from a payroll system. 


There are a few benefits to implementing a payroll system in your business. Here are five benefits to using a payroll system: 


It makes compliance easy 

All organisations must comply with tax regulations, including PAYE, KiwiSaver, etc. This entails making sure that you pay your employees correctly and accurately, whilst recording any deductions, such as ACC contributions. If you don’t have a suitable system in place, it can create a headache when you file payroll returns with the IRD and result in fines or, in worst-case scenarios, even prosecution. A managed payroll service from a good provider will help ensure that you're compliant by explaining any new laws and making sure you avoid any penalties. 


It saves you time 

Having a payroll system allows you to spend less time managing your employees' wages and more time focusing on growing your business. If you run multiple businesses, managing each one separately can take up a lot of time. Having a single system that handles all payroll processes saves you time every month. 


Your data is secure 

Your data is stored securely within a secure cloud environment, meaning that it cannot be accessed by hackers. Your information is protected against loss, damage, or theft. 


It reduces your risk 

If you're like most small businesses, you don't want to take on too much risk. When using a payroll system, you reduce the chance of making costly mistakes. You'll know exactly how much your employees make, their annual and sick leave balances, and you won't have to worry about paying out incorrect amounts. The software will calculate holiday pay, produce wage slips, and generate reports by individual or department. 


Increased Accuracy 

When you process payroll manually, you must calculate every single paycheck. If you make a small mistake, you could end up overpaying or underpaying your employees. By using a payroll system, you eliminate the possibility of human error. Your employees receive accurate paychecks, and you avoid having to correct errors later. 




If you’re wanting to implement a payroll system but aren’t sure which one to choose or which ones integrate with MYOB, give us a call, we can help you evaluate and choose the best payroll system for your business. 


15 October 2025
How to attract great people to your business and how to keep them. Three tips to help you rise to the challenge to become an employer of choice.
10 October 2025
As an employer, there are several obligations and expectations set by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) that you must adhere to. Understanding these requirements is essential for maintaining compliance and avoiding any potential penalties. Let's take a closer look at what the IRD expects from you as an employer. Register as an Employer Before you hire your first employee, you are required to register as an employer with the IRD. This is a crucial first step in ensuring that you can meet all tax and payroll obligations. Accurate Record Keeping The IRD requires you to keep accurate and detailed records of all employment-related transactions. This includes: Employee personal details Wages and salary paid Payroll dates and methods PAYE deductions and remittances Details of benefits or allowances provided to employees Maintaining proper records helps ensure that you are reporting and remitting the correct amounts to the IRD. Deduct PAYE Tax You are responsible for deducting PAYE (Pay As You Earn) tax from your employees' pay. This involves calculating the correct amount of PAYE and ensuring it is deducted from each employee's salary or wages before their net pay is provided. Pay Employer Contributions In addition to PAYE, you may also be responsible for contributing to your employees' social security and retirement benefits, depending on the country you operate in. These contributions are typically paid in conjunction with PAYE tax. Issue Statements and Forms At the end of the tax year or upon employment termination, you should provide each employee with a statement showing their total earnings and PAYE deductions. Additionally, filing the appropriate end-of-year PAYE schedules with the IRD is required. File Employer Returns Employers are required to file regular returns with the IRD, which could be monthly, quarterly, or annually, depending on specific regulations. These returns should accurately report all payroll activities, including PAYE deductions. Handle Tax Codes and Changes It's crucial to apply the correct tax codes for each employee's circumstances. Any changes in employment status or tax code must be updated promptly to ensure accurate tax withholdings. Comply with Audit Requests The IRD may audit your business to ensure compliance with employer obligations. As such, being prepared to provide all requested information and records in a timely manner is vital. Adhering to these expectations from the IRD is not just about compliance; it's about fostering a transparent and trustworthy relationship with your employees and the tax authorities. If you need assistance with understanding or managing your obligations as an employer, consider reaching out to a professional accountant. Our team is here to help you navigate these responsibilities seamlessly, ensuring peace of mind and allowing you to focus on growing your business. Feel free to contact us for further information or assistance.
7 October 2025
Thinking of starting your own sole trader business? The Sole Trader Toolkit from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment has all the basic advice you might need.
SHOW MORE

To discuss all your account matters please call us on 09 438 1001