National Payroll Week 2021: AAT encourages people to consider a career as a payroll accountant

As National Payroll Week 2021 begins, AAT is encouraging people to consider pursuing a career in payroll accountancy, and for businesses of all sizes to recognise the benefits of using licensed payroll accountants.

On a daily basis, payroll accountants are responsible for tasks including recording wages, working out bonuses, calculating and deducting taxes for employees and calculating employer tax and liabilities. They may also be involved in implementing new payroll systems and notifying HMRC of changes to employees' circumstances – including new starters as well as those who are retiring, leaving the company or taking parental leave.

The role requires keen attention to detail, strong communication, good mathematical ability and organisational skills, including working well under pressure, prioritising tasks and using technology effectively, as well as handling confidential information and data.

AAT offers a number of bookkeeping qualifications which can help support those interested in pursuing a career as a payroll accountant. The five short qualifications take six to 12 weeks to complete, providing training for a huge range of bookkeeping roles, and are recognised and respected by employers across the UK and around the world. Additionally, AAT bookkeeping qualifications offer a route to becoming an AAT Licensed Bookkeeper.

Gaining a recognised qualification, such as those offered by AAT, can also help to improve earning potential for payroll accountants. The latest AAT Salary Survey shows that the average AAT member’s salary starts at £20,000 for Administrator roles, rising to £46,000 at Director/Senior Manager level.

Additionally, businesses of all sizes can recognise the value that a licensed payroll accountant can bring to their company. This includes up-to-date knowledge of legislation on tax and pensions, increases in business regulation and the importance of compliance. Payroll accountants can also help business owners understand their liabilities and better calculate current and future cashflow.

Steven Drew, Head of Markets and Products at AAT, said: "Payroll accounting is an essential part of any business, ensuring that everything runs smoothly for employees to be paid on time and HMRC is kept up to date of any changes – particularly during the current period where businesses are facing a rapidly changing situation as the UK economy begins to recover from the impact of the pandemic. National Payroll Week offers an opportunity for employers to recognise the benefits of having licensed payroll accountants and bookkeepers in their organisations, as well as showcasing that it can be a well-paid, fast-paced role for those who are considering their career options.

"We would encourage anyone who is considering a career in payroll accounting to look at AAT’s bookkeeping qualifications. AAT qualifications are open to everyone – regardless of age, background or previous qualifications – and offer a recognised and respected route into accountancy and bookkeeping roles. Undertaking these qualifications can not only provide a boost to your skills and earnings, but also offer reassurance to businesses and clients."

AAT recently launched a new guide, What you should know before you appoint an accountant, which includes tips for consumers as well as highlighting the importance of choosing a licensed accountant or tax advisor. The guide also contains real-life examples of the damage that can be caused by using unregulated accountants or tax advisors, as part of AAT’s ongoing Accountable campaign.