More and more businesses are choosing to outsource their payroll services, and it’s not hard to understand why. Payroll is one of the most daunting and time-consuming tasks for any HR department, and it’s also one of the most popular responsibilities to outsource. Although the decision to switch from in-house payroll processing to an outsourced provider may be difficult, the benefits are worth it. When making the switch, it’s important to take the time to do your research in order to find the right provider for your needs. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for businesses, and finding the right provider may take time.
So how do you go about finding the best payroll service for your business? Start by asking these 5 questions:
What services are included?
One of the first questions you should ask a payroll provider is about which services are included in the package. Many payroll providers offer a variety of services besides just payroll, such as benefits administration, employee self-service and talent management. Before signing a contract, it’s important to understand which services are provided and which ones are not covered.
Can I see a sample pay stub?
Not all businesses offer direct deposit, and even if you do, your employees will still have access to electronic pay stubs. Examining a sample pay stub will help you understand the ease of use from your employee’s perspective when it comes to their services. For example, if you receive a pay stub and can’t sort out the payments from deductions, you may want to consider another payroll provider.
Who can I contact if I have any questions?
Good customer service is essential for any payroll provider. You’re bound to have questions at some point, and when you do, it’s important that your questions are answered in a timely manner. Ask about their customer service department and who you would be speaking to if you had a question about your account.
Will I be assigned a payroll specialist, or will I talk to someone new each time?
This goes along with the question above. When you have questions concerning your payroll service, knowing whether you have an account representative assigned to your business could be useful if you’re trying to get your problems resolved quickly.
How is payroll delivered?
It’s important to know whether the checks will be printed and mailed to you or if your employees will be enrolled in direct deposit. You may have a preference to one, and if you do, make sure the company you choose offers that choice as an option. Also, find out if there are any charges attached to the delivery of your payroll. This will eliminate any surprises down the road.
Outsourcing your business’ payroll can be a great way to increase the productivity of your HR department and cut back on paperwork. It’s also a great way to ensure that you stay up-to-date on tax regulations. Outsourcing your payroll doesn’t have to be expensive, and it’s a valuable option for many small businesses.
