TEL Staffing & HR Blog

How Payroll Errors Could Be Costing You Millions—and How to Stop Them

Written by TEL | October 2024

For business owners and HR Directors, payroll is more than just a monthly task; it’s a critical component that keeps operations running smoothly. Yet, payroll errors—from missed tax deadlines to miscalculated overtime—are costing U.S. businesses millions each year in fines and lost productivity. Payroll mistakes can add up quickly, cutting into profits and straining company resources. Fortunately, TEL Staffing & HR offers solutions that eliminate these risks, ensuring accuracy and compliance at every step. Here’s what you need to know about payroll errors, their impact on your bottom line, and how to stop them.

Common Payroll Errors That Drain Profits

Payroll processing is complex, and even small mistakes can lead to big problems. Below are some of the most common payroll errors that are affecting businesses today:

  1. Incorrect Tax Withholding or Filing: Inaccurate tax withholdings or late tax filings can lead to steep fines and penalties. The IRS estimates that nearly 40% of small businesses incur penalties for incorrect payroll filings each year. This adds a significant, unnecessary cost to business operations.
  2. Misclassification of Employees: Misclassifying employees as independent contractors or vice versa is another costly error. This mistake can lead to penalties and back wages, especially with increasing federal scrutiny on worker classification.
  3. Overtime Calculation Errors: Failing to pay the correct overtime rate, whether from lack of tracking or misunderstanding wage laws, not only impacts employee satisfaction but also opens the door to wage-and-hour lawsuits.
  4. Missed Deadlines: Whether it’s payroll tax payments, filings, or benefits contributions, missed deadlines can lead to substantial fines. Payroll compliance is non-negotiable for businesses looking to avoid these financial setbacks.

The True Cost of Payroll Mistakes

The impact of payroll errors goes beyond fines. When errors occur, they lead to lost productivity as HR teams scramble to correct mistakes and address employee concerns. Payroll issues can also damage employee trust, potentially leading to turnover, which in turn raises hiring and training costs. For small to medium-sized businesses, payroll mistakes can make the difference between a profitable quarter and one bogged down by unexpected expenses.

According to the American Payroll Association, human error in payroll is responsible for between 1-8% of a company’s total payroll costs 1. For a business with a $1 million annual payroll, this means as much as $80,000 in potential losses due to errors.

How TEL Staffing & HR Can Help You Stop Payroll Errors

As a business owner or HR professional, managing payroll correctly is essential to protecting your bottom line. Here’s how TEL Staffing & HR Payroll solutions eliminate payroll errors, so you can stay focused on growth:

  1. Accurate, Expert-Driven Solutions: TEL Staffing & HR leverages payroll expertise to ensure precise tax withholding, accurate wage calculations, and strict adherence to federal, state, and local laws. With TEL’s team, you’re not only compliant but protected from the costly consequences of human error.
  2. Comprehensive Compliance Oversight: Payroll tax laws and regulatory compliance standards are always shifting, making it difficult to stay current. Our payroll services are designed to take the guesswork out of compliance. With TEL’s proactive approach, businesses can rest assured knowing that deadlines are met and filings are correct.
  3. Customized Payroll Services: Unlike one-size-fits-all solutions, TEL Staffing & HR tailors payroll processes to fit each client’s unique needs. From employee classifications to overtime calculations, TEL handles every payroll aspect with precision, helping clients minimize costly payroll pitfalls.
  4. Time Savings and Operational Efficiency: By outsourcing payroll to TEL Staffing & HR, businesses gain more time to focus on high-value activities, such as strategic growth initiatives. Payroll outsourcing can be a game-changer for time management, providing company leaders with peace of mind and time to drive innovation.

Take Control of Your Payroll - and Your Bottom Line

Payroll mistakes don’t have to drain your profits or cost you valuable time. By partnering with TEL Staffing & HR, you gain an ally who understands the intricacies of payroll and the value of precision. Protect your bottom line and achieve peace of mind by letting us handle your payroll needs with expertise and dedication.

Ready to Transform Your Payroll Experience?

 Let TEL Staffing & HR take the burden off your shoulders. Contact us today to discover how our customized payroll solutions can support your company’s growth, eliminate costly mistakes, and give you more time to focus on what matters most: your business. Reach out now and experience the TEL Staffing & HR difference! https://telstaffing.com/