Payroll Applications
Purpose of Course showclose
- Government compliance (includes, but is not limited to): reporting based on the amount of payroll dollars; depositing of taxes collected from the employee, sometimes matched by the employer, or sometimes deposited by only the employer on the employee’s behalf; and providing summaries of annual payroll activity of each person who received any compensation from the organization.
- Employee processing (includes, but is not limited to): new hire administrative actives and paperwork, tracking and reporting payroll changes, collecting and properly filing payroll data.
- Payroll processing (includes, but is not limited to): data entry, reconciliation, and distribution of reports.
- Employer compliance (includes, but is not limited to): the issuing of W-2’s.
Course Information showclose
Course Designer: Johnny Jackson MBA, MHRM
Primary Resources: This course is comprised of a range of different free, online materials. However, the course makes primary use of core content from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), The United States Department of Labor, and DWM Bean Counter.
Requirements for Completion: In order to complete this course, you will need to work through each unit and any of its assigned materials. In each unit of this course, there is strategic information provided to support your understanding of payroll applications. It is very important that you take notes as you work through this course, and use these notes to support your critical analysis of the content you are reading or viewing. You will also need to complete:
- Course Assessments (not graded)
- Final Exam
Tips/Suggestions: As you are working through the course, you are greatly encouraged to take notes and build yourself a glossary of payroll terms. You should keep your notes organized and properly labeled, as they will serve you well as you prepare to complete the final exam. Pay careful attention when watching a lecture in the course. Course lectures and web media materials not only serve to reinforce a concept being presented, but may also be included on your final exam. Also, it is very important to your learning process that you develop a solid comfort level with each section of the course prior to moving on to the next section.
Learning Outcomes showclose
- Understand the working relationship between the employer and any laborer, regardless of their employment classification.
- Calculate overtime payments for employees.
- Know the basic laws and rules that apply to payroll applications.
- Understand the requirements for an effective payroll operations system.
- Understand the various federally mandated withholdings when compensating employees.
- Define and be able to research specific information on a particular state tax requirement.
- Identify what happens if an additional deduction from an employee’s compensation is required.
- Explain fringe benefits and be able to compute any associated payroll calculations.
- Explain the basics of retirement, insurance, and flexible-plan benefits.
- Understand and be able to compute payroll accounting calculations.
- Know how and when to complete and submit tax deposits and statements.
- Understand the basics of payroll tax returns and explain compliance penalties.
Course Requirements showclose
√ Have access to a computer.
√ Have continuous broadband Internet access.
√ Have the ability/permission to install plug-ins or software (e.g., Adobe Reader or Flash).
√ Have the ability to download and save files and documents to a computer.
√ Have the ability to open Microsoft files and documents (.doc, .ppt, .xls, etc.).
√ Be competent in the English language.
√ Have read the Saylor Student Handbook.
Unit Outline show close
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Unit 1: Payroll Foundations and Understanding Pay
The basic understanding of payroll can be looked at from a few different perspectives. Perspective 1: Payroll can be identified as the total of all financial records associated with an individual employee. This is the identification of payroll from an organizational perspective. Perspective 2: Payroll can be looked at as the amount an employee receives from an employer in exchange for labor. This is the identification of payroll from the employee's perspective. Perspective 3: Payroll can be identified as the process through which taxes are collected and remitted to the appropriate authorities. Regardless of the perspective that is most familiar to you, this unit will provide you with some foundational insight that frames the basic understanding of payroll and the pay process.
Unit 1 Time Advisory show close
Unit 1 Learning Outcomes show close
- Lecture: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 1"
Link: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 1"
Instructions: Please view this introductory video for an overview of the topics covered in this unit.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.The Saylor Foundation does not yet have materials for this portion of the course. If you are interested in contributing your content to fill this gap or aware of a resource that could be used here, please submit it here.
- Lecture: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 1"
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1.1 Definitions
- Reading: HR Technology Partners: "Payroll Terms and Glossary"
Link: HR Technology Partners: "Payroll Terms and Glossary" (HTML)
Instructions: To review the payroll terms and glossary click on the link above. In this part of the course you will be introduced to an alphabetical list of terms and concepts that you will see throughout the course. You are greatly encouraged to review this list prior to proceeding through the remainder of the course, and you should definitely bookmark this link (save it as a favorite) and refer to it as you go through the course, especially if you come across a term and do not remember exactly what it means.
This reading should take you approximately 15 minutes to complete.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Quizlet.com’s "Payroll Flashcards"
Link: Quizlet.com’s "Payroll Flashcards" (HTML)
Instructions: To review the payroll terms click on the link above. You will need to use the arrows on the left and right sides of the flashcards to advance or move backwards. In this part of the course you will be introduced to a series of terms that will assist you with your understanding of payroll applications. Please pay careful attention to the information in this part of the course.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 20 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: HR Technology Partners: "Payroll Terms and Glossary"
- 1.2 Defining the Working Relationship
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1.2.1 Independent Contractor vs. Employee
- Reading: IRS.gov’s "Independent Contractor (Self-Employed) or Employee"
Link: IRS.gov’s "Independent Contractor (Self-Employed) or Employee" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will be provided a detailed summary of the foundational types of workers. It is very important to the understanding of payroll that you properly identify the worker and their relationship to the employer. This is the beginning step of the employment process. This resource will provide you with some scenarios, additional links that will direct you to expanded information, the categories used when applying the common law rules for clarifying the workers employment status, and some foundational information on what happens if an employee is misclassified. The content in this part of the course covers subunits 1.2.1, 1.2.3, and introduces 1.2.4. Subunit 1.2.4 will be further expanded in an IRS webinar in that section of the course.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 15 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: IRS.gov’s "Independent Contractor (Self-Employed) or Employee"
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1.2.2 Part Time, Temporary, and Seasonal Employees
- Reading: FindLaw.com’s "Part Time, Temporary, and Seasonal Employees"
Link: FindLaw.com’s "Part Time, Temporary, and Seasonal Employees" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will be provided with information to assist in your understanding of part-time, temporary, and seasonal employees. Embedded within this resource are links that will take you to additional information that will expand on associated legislation that structures the use of these types of workers in the workplace.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 8 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: FindLaw.com’s "Part Time, Temporary, and Seasonal Employees"
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1.2.3 Reasonable Basis and Common Law Test
Note: This topic is covered by the reading in subunit 1.2.1.
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1.2.4 Incorrect Classification
Note: Part of this topic is covered by the reading in subunit 1.2.1. Additional insight on this topic is provided in the webinar listed below.
- Web Media: Irsvideos.gov Presents: Anita Bartels’ "Worker Classification"
Link: Irsvideos.gov Presents: Anita Bartels’ "Worker Classification" (Flash)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will be provided with detailed information associated with the classification of the worker. Pay careful attention to the information presented on the misclassification of the worker. This webinar can be viewed using a Flash Player or Windows Media.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This web media should take you approximately 54 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Web Media: Irsvideos.gov Presents: Anita Bartels’ "Worker Classification"
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1.2.5 Employment Eligibility and New Hire Reporting
- Reading: NOLOLaw.com: Beth Laurence's "Hiring Your First Employee: 13 Things You Must Do"
Link: NOLOLaw.com: Beth Laurence's "Hiring Your First Employee: 13 Things You Must Do" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will be provided with a list of thirteen things that need to happen when you hire your first employee. The core information is still valid even if you are hiring your one thousandth employee.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 15 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: NOLOLaw.com: Beth Laurence's "Hiring Your First Employee: 13 Things You Must Do"
- 1.3 Minimum Wage
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1.3.1 Federal Requirement
- Reading: US Department of Labor's "Wages and Hours Worked: Minimum Wage and Overtime Pay"
Link: US Department of Labor's "Wages and Hours Worked: Minimum Wage and Overtime Pay" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. This part of the course will provide you with an overview of minimum wage from a federal perspective.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 20 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: US Department of Labor's "Wages and Hours Worked: Minimum Wage and Overtime Pay"
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1.3.2 State Requirement
- Reading: US Department of Labor's "State Labor Laws"
Link: US Department of Labor's "State Labor Laws" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will be provided with a colored map that will give you specific insight on minimum wage by state.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 19 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: US Department of Labor's "State Labor Laws"
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1.3.3 Tip Credit
- Reading: NOLOLaw.com: Lisa Guerin's "Tips, Tip Pooling, and Tip Credits: What Service Employees Need to Know"
Link: NOLOLaw.com: Lisa Guerin's "Tips, Tip Pooling, and Tip Credits: What Service Employees Need to Know" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will be provided with insight that supports your understanding of tips and tip credits. In the body of this reading there is a hyperlink entitled “wage and hour laws in your state.” You should click on this link to find specific information listed for each state. You should view the information on multiple states, comparing them to see which states actually pay a higher minimum wage than the federal requirement.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 7 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: NOLOLaw.com: Lisa Guerin's "Tips, Tip Pooling, and Tip Credits: What Service Employees Need to Know"
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1.4 Defining and Calculating Overtime
- Web Media: YouTube: NWSSPathmath Channel's "Calculating Income – Overtime"
Link: YouTube: NWSSPathmath Channel's "Calculating Income – Overtime" (YouTube)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will receive instruction on the basic calculations of overtime pay. The instruction will walk you step by step through a regular plus overtime calculation for an employee.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This web media should take you approximately 4 minutes to complete.
See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Lecture: YouTube: National Park Community College's "Overtime Pay"
Link: YouTube: National Park Community College's "Overtime Pay" (YouTube)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will receive instruction on the basic calculations of overtime pay.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This lecture should take you approximately 3 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Web Media: YouTube: NWSSPathmath Channel's "Calculating Income – Overtime"
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Unit 2: Payroll: The Law, the Rules
The money collected through the payroll process is regulated by various laws at the federal and state levels. These laws are in place to ensure consistency in the implementation of payroll applications. While the laws do not directly tell you how to structure your payroll system, you are provided guidance on specific elements associated with effective payroll management.
Unit 2 Time Advisory show close
Unit 2 Learning Outcomes show close
- Lecture: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 2"
Link: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 2"
Instructions: Please view this introductory video for an overview of the topics covered in this unit.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.The Saylor Foundation does not yet have materials for this portion of the course. If you are interested in contributing your content to fill this gap or aware of a resource that could be used here, please submit it here.
- Lecture: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 2"
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2.1 Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
- Reading: YouTube: US Office of Personnel Management’s "FLSA Webcast"
Link: YouTube: US Office of Personnel Management’s "FLSA Webcast" (YouTube)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will gain an expanded understanding of the basic elements of FLSA. The presenter will address who is covered by FLSA, and more specifically, what parts of FLSA actually apply to certain workers. You should take notes during this presentation.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This lecture should take you approximately 1 hour and 33 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Practicallaw.com’s "Fair Labor Standards Act"
Link: Practicallaw.com’s "Fair Labor Standards Act" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will learn that this is the legislation that governs the wage and hour laws of the United States. There is also a provision that speaks to the generalities of wage and hour laws as they apply to foreign countries. This is great information to know if you plan on opening or expanding a business into a foreign country.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 5 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: YouTube: US Office of Personnel Management’s "FLSA Webcast"
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2.2 Portal-to-Portal Act of 1947
- Reading: Practicallaw.com’s "Portal-to-Portal Act of 1947"
Link: Practicallaw.com’s "Portal-to-Portal Act of 1947" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will learn about some of the things an employer is excluded from paying to an employee. Pay close attention to the discussion about how this act amended the FLSA.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 5 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Practicallaw.com’s "Portal-to-Portal Act of 1947"
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2.3 The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
- Reading: Practicallaw.com’s "Family and Medical Leave Act"
Link: Practicallaw.com’s "Family and Medical Leave Act" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will learn that this is the legislation that requires an employer to provide job-protected leave from employment to covered employees.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 5 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Practicallaw.com’s "Family and Medical Leave Act"
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2.4 Withholding Allowances
- Reading: About.com’s William Perez "How to Fill out Form W-4"
Link: About.com’s William Perez "How to Fill out Form W-4" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will learn about the lawful way to reduce you tax liability. The concept of tax is an intricate part to the payroll process, so pay careful attention to the information in this part of the course.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 15 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Buzzle.com’s "Withholding Allowances"
Link: Buzzle.com’s "Withholding Allowances" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will learn about the lawful way to reduce you tax liability. The concept of tax is an intricate part of the payroll process, so pay careful attention to the information in this part of the course.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 5 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: About.com’s William Perez "How to Fill out Form W-4"
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2.5 Earned Income Credit
- Reading: Irsvideo.gov’s "Earned Income Tax Credit Video"
Link: Irsvideo.gov’s "Earned Income Tax Credit Video" (Flash)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. The 3:22-minute video will provide you with an explanation of earned income tax credit, or EITC.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This web media should take you approximately 3 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: IRS.gov’s "Earned Income Tax Credit"
Link: IRS.gov’s "Earned Income Tax Credit" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will learn about earned income tax credit (EITC or EIC). This part of the course will guide you towards understanding this aspect of tax. To access the various parts of this reading you will have to click on each embedded hyperlink individually.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Irsvideo.gov’s "Earned Income Tax Credit Video"
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Unit 3: Payroll Operations and the Employee
To ensure that payroll happens in a uniform and consistent pattern, it is necessary to have an effective internal controls procedure, and to put into practice some protocols and procedures for tracking and recording payroll in a way that complies with federal and state regulations, reporting requirements, and external audits. These are the core elements of effective payroll operations.
The operations and control of the payroll process is essential because it provides a means for properly paying employees. In addition to understanding the basic components of operations when it comes to payroll, you will also learn about paying employees, handling direct deposits, and dealing with unclaimed wages.
Unit 3 Time Advisory show close
Unit 3 Learning Outcomes show close
- Lecture: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 3"
Link: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 3"
Instructions: Please view this introductory video for an overview of the topics covered in this unit.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.The Saylor Foundation does not yet have materials for this portion of the course. If you are interested in contributing your content to fill this gap or aware of a resource that could be used here, please submit it here.
- Lecture: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 3"
- 3.1 Payroll Operations- The System
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3.1.1 Payroll Operations
- Reading: DOI.gov’s "Payroll Operations"
Link: DOI.gov’s "Payroll Operations" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will learn about the various elements of payroll operations as defined by the US Department of Interior. The operation of a payroll process involves a number of functions. This is an overview of the payroll operations process and should be viewed as a foundation, not as the comprehensive rules for payroll operations.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 5 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: DOI.gov’s "Payroll Operations"
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3.1.2 Eliminating Payroll Headaches
- Lecture: YouTube: Bullhorntv: Robert Byers’ "From Placement to Pay and Back: Eliminating Payroll Headaches"
Link: YouTube: Bullhorntv’s Robert Byers’ "From Placement to Pay and Back: Eliminating Payroll Headaches" (YouTube)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will learn about the various elements of payroll operations. The information provided will cover specifics of the sources of information needed by payroll professionals to complete payroll. This is an overview of the payroll operations process and should be viewed as a foundation, not as the comprehensive rules for payroll operations.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This lecture should take you approximately 43 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Lecture: YouTube: Bullhorntv: Robert Byers’ "From Placement to Pay and Back: Eliminating Payroll Headaches"
- 3.2 Payroll Processing Methods
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3.2.1 Picking a Payroll Method
- Reading: Smallbusiness.intuit.com’s "Choosing a Payroll Method"
Link: Smallbusiness.intuit.com’s "Choosing a Payroll Method" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will learn about four methods of processing payroll. You will be provided the pros and cons of each method. This is an important decision that has to be made in any organization, because of the business’s responsibility with regards to the collection and proper depositing of various taxes.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 5 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Smallbusiness.intuit.com’s "Choosing a Payroll Method"
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3.2.2 Setting Up Payroll
- Lecture: YouTube: SimonSezIT.com’s “Setting Up Payroll in QuickBooks”
Link: YouTube: SimonSezIT.com’s “Setting Up Payroll in QuickBooks” (YouTube)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will gain insight on one of the popular programs used by small businesses to setup and manage payroll. There are four videos total, and they should be watched in the following order: QuickBooks Tutorial; Setting up Payroll – Part 1; Setting up Payroll – Part 2; Setting up Payroll – Part 3.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This lecture should take you approximately 28 minutes to complete.
See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Lecture: YouTube: SimonSezIT.com’s “Setting Up Payroll in QuickBooks”
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3.2.3 Payroll Calculations Methods
- Reading: Payroll.ku.edu’s “Payroll Calculation Methods”
Link: Payroll.ku.edu’s “Payroll Calculation Methods” (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will gain insight on a number of payroll calculation methods. Even though technology has advanced to the point where all you have to do is plug in numbers and hit enter, it is still very important to know how to manually complete a payroll calculation. This would be an important skill in situations in which technology is not working and business still has to go on as usual.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 45 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Payroll.ku.edu’s “Payroll Calculation Methods”
- 3.3 Payroll Control Process and Procedures
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3.3.1 Regular Payroll Process
- Reading: Ehow.com: Rowena Odina's "The Regular Payroll Process"
Link: Ehow.com: Rowena Odina's "The Regular Payroll Process" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will gain some foundational insight on the payroll process. To achieve success within your payroll applications, your processes and procedures have to be very reliable and involve a great deal of accuracy.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 5 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Ehow.com: Rowena Odina's "The Regular Payroll Process"
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3.3.2 Policy and Procedures
- Reading: Ehow.com: Rowena Odina's "Payroll Policy & Procedures"
Link: Ehow.com: Rowena Odina's "Payroll Policy & Procedures" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will gain insight on the responsibilities, features, considerations, and significance of an effective payroll policy and procedure. Because payroll is such a large process and expense for most organizations, a formalized system of payroll applications is a necessary element of business.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 5 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Ehow.com: Rowena Odina's "Payroll Policy & Procedures"
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3.3.3 A Policy Payroll System
- Reading: Ehow.com: Elyse Twist's "Procedures for a Policy Payroll System"
Link: Ehow.com: Elyse Twist's "Procedures for a Policy Payroll System" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will gain insight on the responsibilities, features, considerations, and significance of an effective payroll policy and procedure. Because payroll is such a large process and expense for most organizations, a formalized system of payroll applications is a necessary element of business.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 5 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Ehow.com: Elyse Twist's "Procedures for a Policy Payroll System"
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3.3.4 Internal Controls
- Reading: Blink.ucsd.edu’s "Internal Control Practices: Payroll
Link: Blink.ucsd.edu’s "Internal Control Practices: Payroll" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will gain insight on how to secure your payroll assets, a separation of duties, reconciliation, and approval. This should not be viewed as a comprehensive list. You should view this information as a basis upon which an organization can build its internal controls.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 5 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Blink.ucsd.edu’s "Internal Control Practices: Payroll
- 3.4 What You Need to Know about Paying Employees
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3.4.1 Paying Your Employees
- Reading: Business Owners Toolkit: "Paying Your Employees"
Link: Business Owners Toolkit: "Paying Your Employees" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will be provided with an overview for understanding the elements associated with paying your employees. There are additional hyperlinks embedded within this part of the course that will provide you with an expanded understanding of the points discussed.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 4 minutes to complete.
See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Business Owners Toolkit: "Paying Your Employees"
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3.4.2 When You Can't Make Payroll
- Reading: Inc.com: Lauren Cannon’s "How to Pay Employees When You Can’t Make Payroll"
Link: Inc.com: Lauren Cannon’s "How to Pay Employees When You Can’t Make Payroll" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will be provided with an overview for understanding the elements associated with paying your employees when there is an economic downturn, or some other issue that makes funds limited or unavailable. It is important to have a contingency plan, and this reading provides you with some insight and support for developing a contingency plan.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 10 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Inc.com: Lauren Cannon’s "How to Pay Employees When You Can’t Make Payroll"
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3.4.3 Compensation, Culture, Climate
- Reading: Greatworkplace.wordpress.com’s "Compensation Practices: Signals of Your Organization’s Climate & Culture"
Link: Greatworkplace.wordpress.com’s "Compensation Practices: Signals of Your Organization’s Climate & Culture" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will gain insight on how the compensation of employees impacts an organization’s climate and culture. Towards the end of the article there are some comments, which you should review. Develop your own perspective after you have read this information.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 5 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Greatworkplace.wordpress.com’s "Compensation Practices: Signals of Your Organization’s Climate & Culture"
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3.4.4 Costly Payroll Mistakes
- Reading: Hrbits.com’s "Avoid These 11 Costly Payroll Mistakes"
Link: Hrbits.com’s "Avoid These 11 Costly Payroll Mistakes" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will gain insight on what happens when your payroll processes are not properly implemented. Please be sure to take notes and heed the warnings identified in this part of the course.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 15 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Hrbits.com’s "Avoid These 11 Costly Payroll Mistakes"
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Unit 4: Payroll and Paycheck Withholdings—Employee Federal Tax
The Sixteenth Amendment of the United States Constitution allows the federal government to collect taxes on forms of income, as they deem appropriate. When the federal government collects these taxes, the money is used to fund federal projects like federal student loans, and to pay the compensation of the government workers who keep all aspects of the federal government going. In this unit you will learn about the federal tax-collection process associated with payroll, and you will develop an understanding of Social Security and Medicare taxes.
Unit 4 Time Advisory show close
Unit 4 Learning Outcomes show close
- Lecture: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 4"
Link: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 4"
Instructions: Please view this introductory video for an overview of the topics covered in this unit.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.The Saylor Foundation does not yet have materials for this portion of the course. If you are interested in contributing your content to fill this gap or aware of a resource that could be used here, please submit it here.
- Lecture: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 4"
- 4.1 Federal, Social Security, and Medicare Withholdings
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4.1.1 Withholding Taxes
- Reading: IRS.gov’s "Tax Withholdings"
Link: IRS.gov’s "Tax Withholdings" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will learn about two distinct ways to have your federal tax withheld that align with federal tax law. Additionally, this part of the course will provide you with insight on changing your withholdings, what to do if you work two or more jobs, and how to get the right amount withheld. There are additional hyperlinks within the body of this reading. You will have to click on the hyperlinks to view the associated information.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 60 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: IRS.gov’s "Tax Withholdings"
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4.1.2 Withholdings and the Employee’s Paycheck
- Web Media: YouTube: Mahalo.com’s "How do I know how much federal income tax to withhold from my employee's paycheck?"
Link: YouTube: Mahalo.com’s "How do I know how much federal income tax to withhold from my employee's paycheck?" (YouTube)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this 4-minute video you will be provided with an answer to the question "How do I know how much federal income tax to withhold from my employee's paycheck?" You cannot complete payroll without an understanding of IRS publication 15, and this video will provide you with some pointers on what's included in publication 15.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This web media should take you approximately 4 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Web Media: YouTube: Mahalo.com’s "How do I know how much federal income tax to withhold from my employee's paycheck?"
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4.2 The Employers Tax Guide
- Reading: U.S. Internal Revenue Service: “Publication 15 - Employer's Tax Guide”
Link: U.S. Internal Revenue Service: “Publication 15 - Employer's Tax Guide” (PDF)
Instructions: Please click on the link above and download this PDF. Publication 15, also known as the “employer’s tax guide,” will provide you with a broader overview of various tax concepts from the employer’s perspective. You may want to refer back to this publication as the course progresses.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
Reading this guide should take approximately 2 hours.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: U.S. Internal Revenue Service: “Publication 15 - Employer's Tax Guide”
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Unit 5: Payroll and Paycheck Withholdings—Employee State Tax and Deductions
While there is federal legislation that impacts the application of payroll for all employers and employees, there are some intricacies that are applicable to each state. And while the primary intent of this unit is to give an overview of state and local income taxes, we will also cover topics like employer-paid taxes and how to deal with the payroll of a deceased employee.
Unit 5 Time Advisory show close
Unit 5 Learning Outcomes show close
- Lecture: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 5"
Link: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 5"
Instructions: Please view this introductory video for an overview of the topics covered in this unit.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.The Saylor Foundation does not yet have materials for this portion of the course. If you are interested in contributing your content to fill this gap or aware of a resource that could be used here, please submit it here.
- Lecture: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 5"
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5.1 State Taxes
- Reading: IRS.gov’s "State Links"
Link: IRS.gov’s "State Links" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. Clicking on the link will take you to a page where you will be able to access links to each state in the United States. To cover all of the various and unique state tax laws in this area of the course would take a huge amount of time. Therefore, when you click on the link above, choose a state that is of interest to you. Once you click on the state link, you will have to follow the additional links directing you to that state’s tax information. For example, if you were interested in the state of Arizona, you would be directed to a section on the AZ.gov website entitled "financial & taxes." It is in this section where you find the link for this state's tax information. Each state’s website is different. You should spend some time looking at, and comparing and contrasting, the information on various states.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 90 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: IRS.gov’s "State Links"
- 5.2 Understanding Additional Deductions from Pay
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5.2.1 Deductions From Pay
- Reading: The Legal Aid Society's Employment Law Center: "Deductions From Pay"
Link: The Legal Aid Society's Employment Law Center: "Deductions From Pay" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will be provided with a series of questions and the answers to those questions. These questions are posed from a legal perspective and address some of the common misunderstandings regarding additional deductions from pay.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 15 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: The Legal Aid Society's Employment Law Center: "Deductions From Pay"
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5.2.2 Voluntary Deductions
- Reading: Ice Miller’s "It's My Money – I Can Cry (or File a Claim) if I Want To"
Link: Ice Miller’s "It's My Money – I Can Cry (or File a Claim) if I Want To" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will be provided with some insight on voluntary deductions. You should not perceive this information as comprehensive, as each state has its own regulations for businesses that operate there.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 5 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Ice Miller’s "It's My Money – I Can Cry (or File a Claim) if I Want To"
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5.2.3 Payroll Deduction Program
- Reading: Chron.com: Andrew Mayfair's "How to Set Up a Payroll Deduction Program"
Link: Chron.com: Andrew Mayfair's "How to Set Up a Payroll Deduction Program" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will be provided with some tips on establishing a payroll deduction program. Every business should have a formalized system for establishing payroll deductions. As you read these steps, it is important to note that there can be more or fewer steps depending on the organization and its established payroll process.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 5 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Chron.com: Andrew Mayfair's "How to Set Up a Payroll Deduction Program"
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5.2.4 Wage Deduction Laws
- Reading: CTE Online: Vella Coffman’s “Deductions from Gross Pay”
Link: CTE Online: Vella Coffman’s “Deductions from Gross Pay” (PDF)
Instructions: Read this article to gain an understanding of the various required and voluntary deductions from gross pay and how net pay is calculated.
Studying this resource should take you approximately 30 minutes to complete.
Terms of Use: This resource is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 License. It is attributed to the Butte County Office of Education and the original version can be found here.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: CTE Online: Vella Coffman’s “Deductions from Gross Pay”
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5.3 Mid-Point Review Assessment
- Assessment: Dwmbeancounter.com’s Dave Marshall "Payroll Basics 1"
Link: Dwmbeancounter.com’s Dave Marshall "Payroll Basics 1" (Flash)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. This assessment is not graded. You should view this assessment as a review of content that you should have learned up to this point. After answering each question you will receive a “correct” or “incorrect” notification. You are greatly encouraged to take notes as you work through this assessment.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This assessment should take you approximately 25 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Assessment: Dwmbeancounter.com: Dave Marshall’s "Fling the Teacher Game - Payroll"
Link: Dwmbeancounter.com: Dave Marshall’s "Fling the Teacher Game - Payroll" (Flash)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. This assessment is not graded. You should view this assessment as a review of content that you should have learned up to this point. After answering each question you will receive a “correct” or “incorrect” notification. You are greatly encouraged to take notes as you work through this assessment. The ultimate goal is for you to get all of the answers right, as this is the only way you will be able to build the sling so you can fling the teacher.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This assessment should take you approximately 25 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Assessment: Dwmbeancounter.com’s Dave Marshall "Payroll Basics 1"
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Unit 6: Benefits: Fringe Benefits, Recognition, and Market Value
According to investopedia.com, fringe benefits are a collection of various benefits provided by an employer, which are exempt from taxation as long as certain conditions are met. Any employee who receives taxable fringe benefits will have to include the fair market value of the benefits in their taxable income for the year, which will be subject to tax withholdings and Social Security benefits payments. These benefits could include, but are not limited to, tuition reimbursement, personal use of company vehicles, or childcare assistance. This unit will provide you with some foundational insight on some of the fringe benefits.
Unit 6 Time Advisory show close
Unit 6 Learning Outcomes show close
- Lecture: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 6"
Link: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 6"
Instructions: Please view this introductory video for an overview of the topics covered in this unit.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.The Saylor Foundation does not yet have materials for this portion of the course. If you are interested in contributing your content to fill this gap or aware of a resource that could be used here, please submit it here.
- Lecture: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 6"
- 6.1 Understanding Fringe Benefits
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6.1.1 Why Offer Fringe Benefits
- Reading: Entrepreneur.com’s "The Basics of Employee Benefits"
Link: Entrepreneur.com’s "The Basics of Employee Benefits" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will gain insight on why it is a good practice to offer employee benefits. And while there are some benefits offered to employees that are required by law, many benefits employees are used to receiving are actually considered discretionary, or voluntary.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 25 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Entrepreneur.com’s "The Basics of Employee Benefits"
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6.1.2 The Pros and Cons of Offering Benefits
- Reading: FindLaw.com’s "Pros and Cons: Offering Employee Benefits"
Link: FindLaw.com’s "Pros and Cons: Offering Employee Benefits" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will gain insight on the positive and negative aspects of offering employee benefits. Ultimately, a business has to be very aware of the associated cost of employee benefits, as it directly impacts the organization’s bottom line.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 3 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: FindLaw.com’s "Pros and Cons: Offering Employee Benefits"
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6.2 The IRS and Fringe Benefits
- Reading: IRS.gov’s "Publication 15-B - Fringe Benefit"
Link: IRS.gov’s "Publication 15-B - Fringe Benefit" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will be provided with detailed information on understanding fringe benefits. You will receive an overview, and an explanation of exclusion and valuation rules, as well as rules for withholding, depositing, and reporting.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 120 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: IRS.gov’s "Publication 15-B - Fringe Benefit"
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6.3 Walk The Plank
- Assessment: Dwmbeancounter.com: Dave Marshall’s "Walk The Plank"
Link: Dwmbeancounter.com: Dave Marshall’s "Walk The Plank" (Flash)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. This assessment is not graded. You should view this assessment as a review of content that you should have learned up to this point. After answering each question you will receive a “correct” or “incorrect” notification. You are greatly encouraged to take notes as you work through this assessment. The goal in completing this assessment is to answer enough questions correctly to make the pirate walk the plank.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This assessment should take you approximately 25 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Assessment: Dwmbeancounter.com: Dave Marshall’s "Walk The Plank"
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Unit 7: Benefits—Insurance, Retirement, and Flexible Plans
As we continue our study of benefits, it is important to note that the only benefits an employer is required to offer an employee are workers compensation, social security tax, family and medical leave, unemployment insurance, and in some cases COBRA benefits. If an employer offers benefits outside of the aforementioned list of benefits, these are identified as voluntary. This section of the course provides you with a closer look at benefits, and bolsters your understanding of what is applicable, and to whom it applies.
Unit 7 Time Advisory show close
Unit 7 Learning Outcomes show close
- Lecture: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 7"
Link: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 7"
Instructions: Please view this introductory video for an overview of the topics covered in this unit.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.The Saylor Foundation does not yet have materials for this portion of the course. If you are interested in contributing your content to fill this gap or aware of a resource that could be used here, please submit it here.
- Lecture: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 7"
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7.1 Understanding Benefits and Insurance
- Reading: Thethrivingsmallbusiness.com’s "Employee Benefits Required by Law"
Link: Thethrivingsmallbusiness.com’s "Employee Benefits Required by Law" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will gain insight on which benefits are required by law and which ones employers offer at their discretion.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 5 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Thethrivingsmallbusiness.com’s "Employee Benefits Required by Law"
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7.1.1 Employer Health Insurance Obligation
- Reading: Insuranceproviders.com’s "What are the employer obligations when providing health insurance to employees?"
Link: Insuranceproviders.com’s "What are the employer obligations when providing health insurance to employees?" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will gain insight on the obligation an employer has to an employee with regards to health insurance. You should pay careful attention to the legislation mentioned in this part of the course.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 5 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Insuranceproviders.com’s "What are the employer obligations when providing health insurance to employees?"
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7.1.2 Types of Health Insurance
- Reading: Payrollonabudget.com’s "Health Insurance"
Link: Payrollonabudget.com’s "Health Insurance" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will learn about different types of health insurance plans. Pay careful attention to the section that discusses tax treatment of benefits. There is also a mathematical example to assist you in understanding the calculations associated with insurance.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 15 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Payrollonabudget.com’s "Health Insurance"
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7.1.3 Should You Offer Dental Insurance
- Reading: Ehow.com’s "Pros & Cons of Dental Insurance"
Link: Ehow.com’s "Pros & Cons of Dental Insurance" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will get information to assist you in understanding the basis an employee should use for determining if they need dental insurance. An employer can also use this information to support their understanding of how significant of a benefit dental insurance is to their employees.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 5 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Ehow.com’s "Pros & Cons of Dental Insurance"
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7.1.4 The History of Social Security
- Reading: SSA.gov’s "Social Security Frequently Asked Questions"
Link: SSA.gov’s "Social Security Frequently Asked Questions" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will engage in a question-and-answer session regarding the origins of social security. There are a number of hyperlinks embedded in this reading and you will have to click on each link individually to obtain the support information.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 60 minutes to complete.
See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: SSA.gov’s "Social Security Frequently Asked Questions"
- 7.2 Payroll of Deferred Compensation
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7.2.1 Deferred Compensation: Good or Bad Idea?
- Reading: NYTimes.com: Ron Lieber’s "The Hidden Peril of Deferred-Compensation Plans"
Link: NYTimes.com: Ron Lieber’s "The Hidden Peril of Deferred-Compensation Plans" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will gain insight on how deferred compensation plans work, if an employee should participate, and what happens if a company goes bankrupt.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 10 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: NYTimes.com: Ron Lieber’s "The Hidden Peril of Deferred-Compensation Plans"
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7.2.2 Deferred Compensation Series
- Web Media: YouTube: Financial Group Channel’s "Deferred Compensation Series"
Link: YouTube: Financial Group Channel’s "Deferred Compensation Series" (YouTube)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will gain insight on deferred compensation plans and why an employer may or may not choose to offer such a plan. There are a total of six videos in this series. Please watch all six.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This web media should take you approximately 45 minutes to complete.
See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Web Media: YouTube: Financial Group Channel’s "Deferred Compensation Series"
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7.3 Flexible Benefits Plan
- Reading: Flexbene.com’s "What Is a Flex Plan All About"
Link: Flexbene.com’s "What Is a Flex Plan All About" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will gain insight to support your understanding of flexible benefits plans. There is an example that is included that illustrates the impact a flexible benefits plan has on net take-home pay for an employee. Also, at the bottom of this resource is a hyperlink entitled “Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's).” Please click on this hyperlink and read the questions and answers.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 5 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Flexbene.com’s "What Is a Flex Plan All About"
- 7.4 Calculating Benefits, Payroll Taxes, and Insurance
- 7.4.1 Calculating Benefits, Payroll Taxes, and Insurance
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7.4.2 Calculating Medical Benefits
- Reading: Chron.com: Natalie Grace’s "How to Calculate Medical Deductions in Payroll"
Link: Chron.com: Natalie Grace’s "How to Calculate Medical Deductions in Payroll" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will gain insight to support your understanding of how to approach the calculation of medical benefits. You will gain insight on whether deductions are pre-tax or after tax. This information facilitates the completion of the deduction transaction as impacted by section 125 of the internal revenue code.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 10 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Chron.com: Natalie Grace’s "How to Calculate Medical Deductions in Payroll"
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Unit 8: Payroll Accounting
To ensure that accurate records are tracked and maintained, you need a formalized system for identifying payroll transactions. Payroll accounting is a subdiscipline of accounting that focuses on identifying, verifying, recording, and reporting payroll transactions. This unit will provide you with a core understanding of employee payroll transactions.
Unit 8 Time Advisory show close
Unit 8 Learning Outcomes show close
- Lecture: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 8"
Link: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 8"
Instructions: Please view this introductory video for an overview of the topics covered in this unit.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.The Saylor Foundation does not yet have materials for this portion of the course. If you are interested in contributing your content to fill this gap or aware of a resource that could be used here, please submit it here.
- Lecture: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 8"
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8.1 Payroll Accounting Defined
- Reading: Accountingcoach.com’s Payroll Accounting "Part 1" "Part 2" "Part 3" "Part 4" "Part 5" "Part 6"
Link: Accountingcoach.com’s Payroll Accounting "Part 1" "Part 2" "Part 3" "Part 4" "Part 5" "Part 6" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the links above. In this part of the course you will gain insight to support your understanding of how to approach the calculation of payroll taxes and benefits. It is important to note that there are a lot of online calculators to assist you with completing these calculations.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 75 minutes to complete.
See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Accountingcoach.com’s Payroll Accounting "Part 1" "Part 2" "Part 3" "Part 4" "Part 5" "Part 6"
- 8.2 Payroll and Accruals
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8.2.1 Payroll Accrual Basics
- Reading: Chron.com: Devra Gartenstien’s "How to Calculate Payroll Accruals"
Link: Chron.com: Devra Gartenstien’s "How to Calculate Payroll Accruals" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will gain insight to support your understanding of how to approach the calculation of payroll taxes and benefits. It is important to note that there are a lot of online calculators to assist you with completing these calculations.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 5 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Chron.com: Devra Gartenstien’s "How to Calculate Payroll Accruals"
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8.2.2 Calculating Payroll Accruals
- Reading: Simplestudies.com’s "How to Calculate Accrued Payroll"
Link: Simplestudies.com’s "How to Calculate Accrued Payroll" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will gain insight to support your understanding of how to calculate payroll accruals. The reading uses a series of examples to help explain the process. To ensure that you obtain all of the material in this section of the course, please be sure you click the next page hyperlink located on the bottom right-hand side of the reading.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 25 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Simplestudies.com’s "How to Calculate Accrued Payroll"
- 8.3 Payroll Accounting Summary
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8.3.1 The Basics of Payroll Accounting Procedures
- Reading: Chron.com: David Ingram’s "Payroll Accounting Procedures"
Link: Chron.com: David Ingram’s "Payroll Accounting Procedures" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will receive a summary of the various components of the payroll accounting process. This section of the course is a summary of the tasks that are included within each aspect of payroll accounting.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 5 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Chron.com: David Ingram’s "Payroll Accounting Procedures"
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8.3.2 Time Reporting and Tracking
- Reading: Trackmypeople.com’s "Simple Time Management"
Link: Trackmypeople.com’s "Simple Time Management" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will receive an overview of what an employee timekeeping system looks like. There are a number of hyperlinks in the body of this reading that will take you to a variety of additional readings on key areas of the time management system, as well as web-based tutorials that illustrate how you can use the system to track workers.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 60 minutes to complete.The Saylor Foundation does not yet have materials for this portion of the course. If you are interested in contributing your content to fill this gap or aware of a resource that could be used here, please submit it here.
- Reading: Trackmypeople.com’s "Simple Time Management"
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8.4 Payroll Accounting Assessment
- Assessment: Accountingcoach.com’s "Payroll Accounting Quiz"
Link: Accountingcoach.com’s "Payroll Accounting Quiz" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. This assessment is not graded. You should view this assessment as a review of content that you should have learned in this section of the course. To review/complete the assessment you will have to use your mouse curser arrow and move it directly over the hyperlinked space where an answer would be provided. When you are given a multiple-choice question, you will move your curser over the correct multiple-choice answer.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This assessment should take you approximately 10 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Assessment: Accountingcoach.com’s "Payroll Accounting Quiz"
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Unit 9: Payroll Tax: Deposits and Statements
Taxes are collected from the employee. Employers are required to collect taxes as a part of the payroll process. The collection of taxes has a variety of layers: tax money collected directly from the employee, tax money collected from the employer as a match to the money obtained from the employee, and tax money collected directly from the employer. In this unit you will learn about depositing the taxes collected and how to create and issue W-2 wage and tax statements.
Unit 9 Time Advisory show close
Unit 9 Learning Outcomes show close
- Lecture: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 9"
Link: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 9"
Instructions: Please view this introductory video for an overview of the topics covered in this unit.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Lecture: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 9"
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9.1.1 What is an FTD?
- Reading: IRS.gov’s "What Are FTDs and Why Are They Important?"
Link: IRS.gov’s "What Are FTDs and Why Are They Important?" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will be provided with detailed information on making federal tax deposits. This section of the course will explain who must make deposits, when the deposits should happen, and how they are made. Within this reading there are a number of hyperlinks that will direct you to additional content. You will have to click on each hyperlink individually to obtain the information embedded within the reading.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 30 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: IRS.gov’s "What Are FTDs and Why Are They Important?"
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9.1.2 Tax Workshop—Lessons 1 through 5
- Web Media: IRS.gov’s "Small Business/Self-Employed Virtual Small Business Tax Workshop"
Link: IRS.gov’s "Small Business/Self-Employed Virtual Small Business Tax Workshop" (Flash)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will be provided with detailed information on making federal tax deposits. This section of the course will begin the nine-part lesson on understanding the various aspects of tax. For this part of the course you should review the Introduction, as well as lessons 1 through 5. You are greatly encouraged to take notes as you go through the lessons of the workshop. During the workshop you will have the opportunity to respond to some scenario questions that are designed to support your learning and comprehension of this material.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This web media should take you approximately 78 minutes to complete.See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Web Media: IRS.gov’s "Small Business/Self-Employed Virtual Small Business Tax Workshop"
- 9.2 Tax Statements and Payroll Wages
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9.2.1 What is a W-2?
- Reading: Investopedia.com’s "Definition of W-2"
Link: Investopedia.com’s "Definition of W-2" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will be provided with a definition of the term “W-2.” It is important to know the purpose of a W-2 before you learn about what an employer needs to do, and how, to ensure legal compliance. You should be sure to place this information in your notes.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 2 minutes to complete.
See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Investopedia.com’s "Definition of W-2"
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9.2.2 Employer W-2 Filing
- Reading: SSA.gov’s "Employer W-2 Filing Instructions & Information"
Link: SSA.gov’s "Employer W-2 Filing Instructions & Information" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will be provided with a source that explains what an employer should do before filing, how to file electronically or on paper, and how to verify social security numbers. Within this reading there are a number of hyperlinks that will direct you to additional content. You will have to click on each hyperlink individually to obtain the information embedded within the reading.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 45 minutes to complete.
See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: SSA.gov’s "Employer W-2 Filing Instructions & Information"
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9.3 Federal and State Wage Hour Laws Assessment
- Assessment: Proprofs.com’s "Federal and State Wage-Hour Laws"
Link: Proprofs.com’s "Federal and State Wage-Hour Laws" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. This assessment is not graded. You should view this assessment as a review. After answering each question you will receive a “correct” or “incorrect” notification. You are greatly encouraged to take notes as you work through this assessment.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This assessment should take you approximately 25 minutes to complete.
See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Assessment: Proprofs.com’s "Federal and State Wage-Hour Laws"
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Unit 10: Payroll Tax: Returns and Penalties
Just as an employee has to file a tax return reflecting the payroll activity that happened for the previous year, an employer also has to file a series of returns to identify and report the payroll activity that has happened for a specified period. Among the reports an employer has to submit are the FUTA (Federal Unemployment Tax) and SUTA (State Unemployment Tax). The collection of these taxes is an expense an employer incurs on the behalf of each person who is considered an employee. The money collected is deposited into an account and is the foundational source for paying unemployment insurance to eligible former employees. In addition to developing an understanding of the returns an employer has to submit, you will also obtain a foundational understanding of the penalties that are applied when compliance to the reporting requirements does not happen.
Unit 10 Time Advisory show close
Unit 10 Learning Outcomes show close
- Lecture: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 10"
Link: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 10"
Instructions: Please view this introductory video for an overview of the topics covered in this unit.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
The Saylor Foundation does not yet have materials for this portion of the course. If you are interested in contributing your content to fill this gap or aware of a resource that could be used here, please submit it here.
- Lecture: The Saylor Foundation's "PRDV204: Introduction to Unit 10"
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10.1 Tax Workshop- Lessons 6 Through 9
- Lecture: IRS.gov’s "Small Business/Self-Employed Virtual Small Business Tax Workshop"
Link: IRS.gov’s "Small Business/Self-Employed Virtual Small Business Tax Workshop" (Flash)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will be provided with detailed information on making federal tax deposits. This section of the course will continue the nine-part lesson on understanding the various aspects of tax. For this part of the course you should review the Introduction, as well as lessons 6 through 9. You are greatly encouraged to take notes as you go through the lessons of the workshop. During the workshop you will have the opportunity to respond to some scenario questions that are designed to support your learning and comprehension of this material.Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This lecture should take you approximately 90 minutes to complete.
See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Lecture: IRS.gov’s "Small Business/Self-Employed Virtual Small Business Tax Workshop"
- 10.2 Understanding Unemployment Insurance
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10.2.1 Unemployment Insurance Defined
- Reading: US Department of Labor’s "Unemployment Insurance Tax Topic"
Link: US Department of Labor’s "Unemployment Insurance Tax Topic" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will be provided with an overview of the Federal Unemployment Tax Act and the State Unemployment Tax Act. These pieces of legislation are responsible for the unemployment benefits eligible employees receive when they are no longer employed by the employer. Within this reading there are a number of hyperlinks that will direct you to additional content. You will have to click on each hyperlink individually to obtain the information embedded within the reading.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: US Department of Labor’s "Unemployment Insurance Tax Topic"
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10.2.2 Understanding FUTA and SUTA
- Reading: YouTube: National Park Community College's "09-B, FUTA, SUTA"
Link: YouTube: National Park Community College's "09-B, FUTA, SUTA" (YouTube)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will receive instruction on the basic calculations of FUTA and SUTA.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This lecture should take you approximately 8 minutes to complete.
See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: YouTube: National Park Community College's "09-B, FUTA, SUTA"
- 10.3 Are There Any Penalties?
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10.3.1 Penalty and Tax Rules
- Reading: Payrollpenalty.com’s "Does my penalty qualify for reduction?"
Link: Payrollpenalty.com’s "Does my penalty qualify for reduction?" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will be provided with detailed information on understanding penalties associated with making a deposit that is less than the actual amount due. You are provided with two examples, identified as example A and example B, to support your understanding of this part of the course.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This reading should take you approximately 15 minutes to complete
See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Payrollpenalty.com’s "Does my penalty qualify for reduction?"
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10.3.2 What is the 98% Rule?
- Reading: Payrollpenalty.com’s "What is the 98% Safe Harbor Rule?"
Link: Payrollpenalty.com’s "What is the 98% Safe Harbor Rule?" (HTML)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. In this part of the course you will be provided with detailed information on making federal tax deposits. This section of the course will explain who must make deposits, when the deposits should happen, and how they are made.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Reading: Payrollpenalty.com’s "What is the 98% Safe Harbor Rule?"
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10.4 Payroll Applications End Assessment
- Assessment: Dwmbeancounter.com: Dave Marshall’s "Payroll Basics 2"
Link: Dwmbeancounter.com: Dave Marshall’s "Payroll Basics 2" (Flash)
Instructions: To review this part of the course click on the link above. This assessment is not graded. You should view this assessment as a review. After answering each question you will receive a “correct” or “incorrect” notification. You are greatly encouraged to take notes as you work through and complete this assessment.
Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.
This assessment should take you approximately 25 minutes to complete.
See a broken link? Please let us know!
- Assessment: Dwmbeancounter.com: Dave Marshall’s "Payroll Basics 2"
Questions? Consult the FAQ's!

