
Making legal payroll deductions involves several key steps to ensure compliance with applicable state and federal laws and regulations. Employers in all states are responsible for managing various aspects of payroll, such as deductions for overpayments, loans, or employee theft. While such deductions are permissible under certain circumstances, navigating the legal landscape can be complex. Many states have strict rules and regulations regarding payroll deductions.
Three Categories of Paycheck Deductions
Employers typically make deductions from employee paychecks falling into three broad categories. The first encompasses legally mandated deductions, such as income tax and wage garnishments. The second category involves deductions made on behalf of employees, such as insurance premiums or charitable contributions. Finally, the third category focuses on deductions for the employer’s benefit, including those for overpayments. Below are some steps to follow to help ensure compliance.
Here’s a general guide:
- Understand Applicable Laws: Familiarize yourself with federal, state, and local laws governing payroll deductions. These laws may include the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), state wage and hour laws, and any industry-specific regulations.
- Identify Permissible Deductions: Determine which deductions are legally permissible. Common examples include taxes (federal, state, and local), Social Security, Medicare, and wage garnishments for court-ordered debts.
- Establish Written Policies: Develop clear and comprehensive policies outlining the types of deductions that may be made from employee paychecks. These policies should comply with applicable laws and be communicated to all employees.
- Obtain Employee Consent: For deductions not required by law (e.g., voluntary contributions to retirement plans), obtain written consent from employees. This consent should be obtained before the deduction is made and clearly outline the terms and conditions. Written consent and a detailed repayment plan are critical to legal success.
Calculate Deductions Accurately: Ensure that deductions are calculated accurately based on the employee’s earnings. Deductions should align with the applicable rates or amounts specified by law or the employee’s agreement.
- Timely Deductions: Deductions should be made on the designated payday and in accordance with the frequency specified by law or the terms of employment.
- Maintain Records: Keep detailed records of all payroll deductions, including the purpose of the deduction, the amount withheld, and any supporting documentation. These records should be retained for the period required by relevant laws.
- Provide Pay Stub Information: Employee pay stubs should include detailed information about deductions, such as the purpose, amount, and any codes or references, for easy reference and transparency.
- Comply with Limitations: Be aware of any limitations or restrictions on deductions imposed by law. For example, deductions for wage overpayments may be subject to limitations to ensure employees receive at least minimum wage.
- Stay Updated: Regularly review and update payroll deduction policies and procedures to ensure compliance with any changes in laws or regulations.
- Seek Advice if Unsure: If you’re unsure about the legality of a particular deduction or need clarification on applicable laws, if you are a Trust Member or HR Subscriber contact us, or if necessary, seek guidance from qualified legal counsel specializing in employment law or payroll compliance in your state.
By following these steps, employers can ensure that their payroll deduction practices are legally compliant and transparent, minimizing the risk of legal disputes or penalties.
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The information contained in this article is not a substitute for legal advice or counsel and has been pulled from multiple sources.
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