Payroll training explained – best courses and online options compared

Updated on 7 August 2023

If you’re looking for payroll training, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about payroll training courses and online options.

 
Quick, easy, no commitment!

We’ll also compare the best courses and provide tips on choosing the right one for your needs. So whether you’re a business owner or an employee who wants to learn more about payroll, keep reading!

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What is payroll training?

Payroll training is a course or program that teaches you how to correctly process payroll for your employees. This includes calculating wages, withholdings, and deductions, as well as issuing payments and preparing tax forms. This type of training can be beneficial for business owners, employees, and even students who are interested in pursuing a career in payroll.

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Who is payroll training for?

Payroll training is typically for business owners or employees who are responsible for processing payroll within their company. However, as we mentioned earlier, students and individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in payroll can also benefit from taking a payroll course.

Is it better to train your employees in payroll, or outsource your payroll?
There are pros and cons to both options. Training your employees in payroll can be more cost-effective in the long run, but it does require an initial investment of time and money. Outsourcing your payroll to an expert can save you time and hassle, but it will likely cost more each month. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what makes the most sense for your business.

What types of payroll training are available to UK businesses?

There are a few different types of payroll training available to businesses in the UK. The most common type is online training, which can be accessed through a variety of websites and course providers. There are also classroom-based courses offered by some colleges and universities, as well as private training companies.

Pros and cons of online payroll training courses

There are a few advantages and disadvantages to taking an online payroll course.

On the plus side, online courses are typically more affordable than classroom-based courses. They also offer a more flexible learning schedule, which is perfect for busy business owners or employees.

However, one downside of online courses is that they can be less personal than classroom-based courses.

Features to look for in payroll training programs

When you’re choosing a training program, there are a few key features to look for.

  • The program should be up-to-date with the latest legislation. This is important to ensure compliance and avoid any penalties.
  • The course should offer plenty of opportunity for practice. This will allow you to build confidence and become proficient in processing payroll.
  • The program should offer support and opportunity for discussion. This is especially important if you’re new to payroll or have any questions along the way.
  • The learning should be delivered by experienced and knowledgeable instructors. This will ensure that you’re getting high-quality training that’s relevant to your needs.

Best payroll training courses – options compared

Xero payroll training

If you’re looking for online training, Xero offers a few different options. Their Payroll Learning Centre is designed for business owners and employees who are new to processing payroll. The content covers topics like setting up your payroll, calculating wages, and issuing payments.

Sage payroll training

Sage offers a few different payroll training options for businesses in the UK via its Sage University website. These are online courses, as well as instructor-led courses. The online courses are self-paced and can be completed at whatever schedule the learner chooses. It covers topics such as setting up payroll, running payroll, and processing year-end forms.

Best basic payroll training course for payroll administrators and clerks

If you’re new to payroll or just need a refresher, the best option is a basic payroll course. These will give you a grounding in all the key concepts and terminology, as well as providing plenty of opportunities to practice.

There are many different providers of payroll courses, so it’s important to do your research and choose one that’s right for you. Consider factors such as the length of the course, the delivery method (classroom-based or online), and the price.

One good course that’s worth considering is the “Introduction to Payroll” course from CIPP, which is available face-to-face or online. This course covers topics such as setting up payroll, calculating wages, and issuing payments. It’s a 3-day course split into 6 half-days.

Once you’ve completed a basic payroll training course, you’ll be able to confidently process payroll for your business. You’ll also have a good understanding of the legislation surrounding payroll, which is important for compliance purposes.

Free online payroll training courses

There are a few free online payroll courses available. These are typically shorter in length than paid courses and don’t offer as much depth. However, they can be a good option if you’re on a tight budget or just need a basic introduction to payroll.

Paid online payroll training courses

If you’re looking for a more comprehensive training course, then you’ll need to look at paid options. These courses tend to be longer in length and offer more depth than free courses.

There are many options available from the CIPP. These courses are delivered online or in person, and typically take days or weeks to complete. They cover topics such as payroll legislation, tax and NI contributions, and year-end processes. Upon completion, you’ll receive a certificate from CIPP.

How much does payroll training cost?

The cost of training can vary depending on the provider, the delivery method, and the length of the course. Typically, you can expect to pay between £50 and £1500 for a basic payroll training course.

FAQ

Do I need to have any prior knowledge of payroll to take a training course?

No, you don’t need any prior knowledge of payroll to take a course. However, it would be helpful if you had some basic accounting knowledge.

How long do I need to dedicate to training?

This will depend on the course you choose. Some courses can be completed in a few hours. Others are spread over several weeks or months.

Do I need any special equipment to take a payroll training course?

No, you don’t need any special equipment to take a payroll course. All you’ll need is a computer with an internet connection.

How will I know if the payroll course is right for me?

When choosing a payroll training course, there are three things you should consider: the provider, the delivery method, and the length of the course. You should also make sure that the course covers topics that are relevant to your needs.

What will I get out of taking a payroll training course?

By taking a payroll training course, you’ll gain the skills and knowledge you need to process payroll effectively. You’ll also learn about payroll legislation, tax and NI contributions, and year-end processes.

Can I get a job in payroll after taking a training course?

Yes, you can get a job in payroll after taking a training course. However, you may need to have some experience working in payroll before you can apply for jobs. Alternatively, you could take a payroll certification exam to demonstrate your skills and knowledge.

Do I need to take a course if I already have experience in payroll?

No, you don’t need to take a course if you already have experience in payroll. However, it would be beneficial to take a course to refresh your knowledge and learn about any new legislation or processes.

I’m not sure if I want to commit to a full training course. Are there any other options?

Yes, there are other options available if you don’t want to commit to a full training course. You could take an online course, such as the CIPP “Introduction to Payroll” course, or the Sage “Payroll for Businesses” course. Alternatively, you could attend a payroll workshop or seminar. These typically last one day and cover topics such as payroll legislation, tax and NI contributions, and year-end processes.

I’m not based in the UK. Can I still take a payroll training course?

Yes, you can still take a training course if you’re not based in the UK. However, you may need to find a course that’s specifically designed for your country’s payroll system.

Reviewed by , Managing Director

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