Common Questions About Payroll Processing

Payroll FAQS

Why choose CheckWise for my payroll needs?

We’re NOT one of the “big guys”, and that’s a good thing! Most of our clients come to us because they received poor payroll services elsewhere and were looking for a local payroll processing company that wouldn’t treat them “like a number”. When you contact CheckWise, we know who you are, and you know us. And by the way, we actually answer the phone!

When is the best time to change my payroll service?

Generally, the ideal time to make the change is at the start of a quarter (January, April, July, or October).  While your payroll service can be changed at any time in the year, switching at the new quarter creates a nice, clean cut-off point from the prior service company and keeps things simple.

How much time does it take to change to a new payroll service?

Transition time will depend on company size.  Smaller companies without a lot of complexity can be set up in a day or two, while larger companies might take a few weeks to set up a payroll. 

Is it a pain to change payroll service providers?

No!  We do this all of the time, and it’s painless. We’ll provide a list of the information we need, and then put the pieces together behind the scenes.  Most of the time, the information we’ll request can be found right on your current payroll company’s online platform.  If you aren’t using an online system, we’ll stop by and make copies of your payroll reports.  Our goal is to make the process simple and hassle-free for you!

What’s the process for getting my payroll setup with CheckWise?

Step 1: Information Gathering, Reconciliation, and Testing

We’ll ask for some information about the company, such the business name, address, contact information, Federal EIN, and voided check on the business bank account.  Then, we’ll collect employee information and any historical payroll records for the current year.  All of this is entered into our payroll system, reconciled, and tested well before your first payroll.

Step 2: Timing and Method

Together, we’ll coordinate the timing of your first pay date with CheckWise along with a discussion about how and when to send us your payroll hours and wage information.

Step 3: Go-Live

At this point, we are ready to run your first payroll.  You’ll work with a dedicated payroll specialist who’s already been involved in the setup process and can answer any questions along the way.

What size companies does CheckWise work with?

While we have payroll clients that range in size from one employee to hundreds  our sweet spot is small and medium size businesses located right here in the Capital Region and surrounding area.

What kinds of companies does CheckWise work with?

We have payroll clients that represent just about any industry you can imagine.  Our most common industries are Professional Services, Retail, Construction, Restaurants, Health Care, Hotels, Non-Profit, and Religious Organizations.

Does CheckWise offer additional payroll services?

Yes! Here at CheckWise, our goal is to make your life easier in all aspects of your payroll management. Which is why we offer additional services that include, HR Support, Timekeeping and PTO Accrual Tracking, Employee Self-Service, Pay-As-You-Go Workers’ Compensation, Accounting Software Integration, Retirement Reporting, and more.

I’m hiring my first employee. What do I need to do?

Congratulations!  Hiring your first employee is usually a huge move for any business.  At CheckWise, we’ve successfully helped hundreds of new businesses go through the process of hiring their first employee.  There are insurance requirements for workers’ compensation and disability, registrations with your state labor and tax departments, and you’ll need a Federal EIN and business bank account if you don’t already have one.  But don’t sweat it! Give us a call and we’ll guide you through each step.

What taxes need to be withheld from employee wages?

Employee tax withholdings will vary based on state jurisdictions. Examples include, but are not limited to:

  • Federal income tax
  • FICA taxes (Federal Insurance Contribution Act)
  • State income taxes (applicable in New York)
  • State unemployment tax (some states, applicable in New York)

With CheckWise tax management services we’ll handle tax calculations, reports, payments, and paperwork. All you have to do is hand out the paystubs!

Still have questions? Contact our team of payroll specialists to learn more about how to start or switch payroll services today.