Payroll Essentials for Bookkeepers
Presenters : Russel Ngobeni
Overview
Payroll is far more than simply calculating salaries and issuing payslips—it is a critical business function that sits at the intersection of accounting, tax legislation, labour law and internal controls. Errors in payroll can expose organisations to financial loss, SARS penalties, employee disputes and reputational damage. Bookkeepers therefore play a vital role in ensuring payroll is processed accurately, efficiently and in compliance with South African legislation.
Join Russel Ngobeni as he explores the essential principles of payroll processing, highlighting the risks, statutory obligations and practical considerations that every bookkeeper should understand. This practical webinar will guide attendees through the complete payroll cycle, common payroll pitfalls, payroll reconciliation, SARS compliance requirements and best practices for maintaining accurate payroll records. Participants will leave with the knowledge and confidence to process payroll correctly while minimising compliance risks and strengthening internal controls.
Learning objectives
By attending this webinar you will gain the following competencies:
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Understand the complete payroll process from employee setup to payroll reconciliation.
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Process payroll accurately and efficiently while applying key payroll principles.
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Identify common payroll risks, mistakes and fraud indicators.
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Prepare payroll journals, reconciliations and statutory payroll submissions.
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Apply SARS payroll requirements and compliance obligations with confidence.
Content
The webinar will cover the following topics:
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Understanding Payroll
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What payroll really is
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Employee costs, statutory obligations and employee benefits
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Future payroll liabilities
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The dangers and business risks associated with payroll
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Processing Payroll
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The end-to-end payroll process
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Key payroll considerations and compliance factors
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Payroll validation checks before processing
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Common payroll processing issues
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SARS payroll source codes
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Payroll systems
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Gross pay versus Cost to Company
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Payroll Risk Management
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Common payroll mistakes
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Directors' remuneration
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Payroll fraud and internal controls
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Payroll Reconciliation and Compliance
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Key payroll submission dates
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Payroll reconciliations
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Payroll journals
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EMP501 reconciliation process
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Medical Scheme Fees Tax Credits
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Travel allowance (80% versus 20% PAYE treatment)
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