UK employers guide to payroll advice – When, where and how to get it

If you’re an employer in the UK, it’s important to ensure that you’re complying with payroll regulations. This can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not familiar with the process. That’s why it’s important to seek out advice from professionals who can help you stay compliant and avoid any costly mistakes.

In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most common questions employers have about payroll advice, as well as where they can go to get help.

https://youtu.be/JpoxFxmJTjs

When should a company seek payroll advice?

There are a few different scenarios when it might be beneficial for a company to seek out payroll advice.

What to do if you’re not sure
If you’re unsure about any aspect of your payroll process, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and get some expert input.

Also, if you’re making any changes to your payroll system or procedures, it’s a good idea to get advice to make sure you’re still compliant.

And if you’re facing an audit from HMRC, it’s essential to get professional help to ensure that everything is in order.

Does HMRC offer payroll advice?

HMRC does offer some guidance on payroll matters, but it’s generally quite basic and may not be sufficient for your needs, depending on the complexity of your payroll system.

HMRC’s guidance is subject to change, so it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest information. For these reasons, it’s often best to seek out advice from a professional payroll advisor.

Where should an employer get payroll advice from?

There are a few different options available for employers who need advice. One option is to hire a professional payroll advisor, who can provide tailored advice based on your specific needs.

Alternatively, you can use an online payroll service, which can provide guidance and support on all aspects of your payroll process.

There are many HMRC-approved payroll software packages available that come with support services to help you with any payroll queries you may have.

Can’t a company just employ an in-house payroll expert?

While some companies do have in-house payroll experts, this isn’t always a feasible option for small businesses.

Even if you do have someone on staff who is knowledgeable about payroll, it’s always a good idea to get a second opinion from an external source to make sure you’re still compliant.

What are the benefits of using a professional payroll advisor?

There are many benefits of using a professional payroll advisor, including peace of mind knowing that your payroll is being handled by experts.

A good payroll advisor will be up-to-date with the latest changes to payroll legislation, so you can be confident that you’re always compliant.

And a payroll advisor can help you to streamline your payroll process, which can save you time and money in the long run.

Getting payroll advice for a small business

If you’re a small business owner, it’s important to get expert guidance on all aspects of your business, including payroll.

While there are many online resources available, it’s often best to use a professional service to ensure that you’re getting the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Additionally, a professional service can provide support in the event that something goes wrong with your payroll system.

How to choose a payroll advisor – factors to consider

When choosing a payroll advisor, you’ll need to think about their experience, qualifications, and fees.

You should also consider whether they offer any additional services, such as support in the event of an HMRC audit.

Finally, it’s important to choose an advisor who you feel you can trust and who will be able to provide clear and concise advice.

The risks of not getting the right advice

If you don’t get expert advice, you could face a number of consequences.

Firstly, you may find yourself non-compliant with HMRC regulations, which could lead to hefty fines. Additionally, if your payroll system isn’t set up correctly, it could result in errors and delays in payments, which can cause significant disruption to your business.

Finally, if you’re facing an audit from HMRC, not having expert advice could put your business at risk of losing its tax-exempt status.

As you can see, it’s essential to get the right payroll advice to ensure that your business is compliant and running smoothly. If you have any questions about payroll, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a professional advisor who can help you.

Payroll advice fees – how much should it cost?

When seeking out guidance, it’s important to consider the cost of the service. Professional payroll advisors typically charge by the hour, with rates ranging from £50 to £200 per hour.

However, many online payroll services offer free or low-cost options for small businesses.

Frequently asked questions