Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks Salary Guide 2025: Median $58,260
The median annual salary for Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks is $58,260, with a mean of $59,630 or about $28 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Most earn between $39,500 (10th percentile) and $81,350 (90th percentile). The occupation employs 153,140 workers nationally, but automation and software are driving a projected 16.7% employment decline from 2024 to 2034.
How much Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks earn
The national median salary for Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks is $58,260 per year (mean $59,630, about $28/hour). The typical range runs from $39,500 at the 10th percentile to $81,350 at the 90th percentile. Salary depends on experience, industry, and location. Clerks in corporate headquarters or large payroll service firms tend to earn above the median, while those in small businesses or entry-level roles fall toward the lower end.
Pay by state
Location matters a lot. The District of Columbia pays the highest average at $74,670, followed by California ($65,340), Washington ($64,560), Colorado ($64,140), and Massachusetts ($63,670). At the other end, the lowest-paying states are Mississippi ($45,170), Arkansas ($46,110), and Alabama ($46,170). If you're willing to relocate, targeting high-paying states or major metro areas can boost earnings significantly.
How to become Payroll and Timekeeping Clerk
Most employers require a high school diploma, though some prefer an associate degree in accounting or business. Key skills include attention to detail, math proficiency, and familiarity with payroll software (ADP, Paychex, QuickBooks). Certification can help: the American Payroll Association offers the Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) and Certified Payroll Professional (CPP). Entry-level clerks often start as data entry or accounting assistants and move up with experience. On-the-job training is common, and many clerks learn federal and state tax laws as they go.
- 1. Earn a high school diploma or GED (required).
- 2. Consider an associate degree in accounting or business (preferred by many employers).
- 3. Gain proficiency in payroll software and Microsoft Excel.
- 4. Apply for entry-level payroll clerk or assistant roles.
- 5. Obtain FPC or CPP certification to advance.
Job outlook
The BLS projects a 16.7% decline in employment for Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks from 2024 to 2034, losing about 25,600 jobs overall. The reason: automation and self-service payroll systems reduce the need for manual data entry. However, about 13,000 openings per year are still expected, mostly to replace workers who retire or leave the occupation. Clerks who specialize in complex payroll (e.g., multi-state, union, or international) or learn HR software may have better prospects.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for a Payroll and Timekeeping Clerk in 2025?
The median annual salary is $58,260, with a mean of $59,630 (about $28/hour). Most earn between $39,500 and $81,350.
How do I become a Payroll and Timekeeping Clerk?
A high school diploma is the minimum; an associate degree in accounting or business helps. Learn payroll software, get certified (FPC or CPP), and start in an entry-level role.
Is Payroll and Timekeeping Clerk a declining job?
Yes. The BLS projects a 16.7% decline from 2024 to 2034 due to automation, but still about 13,000 openings per year from turnover.
Which states pay the most for Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks?
The District of Columbia ($74,670), California ($65,340), Washington ($64,560), Colorado ($64,140), and Massachusetts ($63,670) are the highest-paying.
What skills do I need?
Math accuracy, knowledge of payroll tax laws, proficiency in ADP/Paychex/QuickBooks, attention to detail, and communication skills.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks data.