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Finance & Accounting

Payroll Specialist Salary Guide (2026)

Explore salary ranges, in-demand skills, valuable certifications, and career progression for payroll specialist roles across the finance & accounting industry.

Avg. Salary

$50,000 - $70,000

Level

Mid Level

Salary Range

Low

$50,000

Midpoint

$60,000

High

$70,000

$0$200,000
Experience level: Mid Level

Key Skills

The most in-demand skills for payroll specialist roles, based on current job postings.

Payroll Processing (ADP/Workday)Multi-State Tax ComplianceBenefits AdministrationGarnishment ProcessingYear-End Reporting (W-2/1099)FLSA ComplianceTime & AttendanceGeneral Ledger ReconciliationExcelHRIS Systems

Certifications That Boost Salary

These certifications are commonly associated with higher compensation for payroll specialist roles.

Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC)
Certified Payroll Professional (CPP)
ADP Workforce Now Certification

Career Progression in Finance & Accounting

Related roles in finance & accounting sorted by salary. Explore each to compare compensation and skills.

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