Q:
I am the office manager at a union paving company that operates out of three states. Between multiple unions, multiple states, prevailing wage/certified payroll and weekly payroll checks for 200 laborers, it all adds up to a lot of payroll headaches. We have tried several different payroll companies, but not one can handle all our needs. We don't have the staff to keep up with our growing payroll-related tasks, and I constantly worry about paying our payroll taxes correctly and on time. What do you suggest?
Angela
A:
You didn't mention what kind of accounting system you are using to generate your payroll information, so let me start with one recommendation. First, a company of your size definitely needs to be using a construction-specific accounting system. Among other things, a good job cost accounting system will offer such automated and time-saving features as timecard importation, multiple tax and union jurisdictions, prevailing wage/union reporting, workers' comp, fringe benefits and many others.
I understand your concern over the responsibilities and liabilities of payroll, especially tax reporting and filings. But despite your unsuccessful efforts to find them, there are some reliable and reputable payroll services out there that cater specifically to the construction industry. The advantage of using one of these services is that it will offer union reporting, certified payroll reporting and other construction reports that the average payroll service can't provide. You'll want to find one that integrates easily with your accounting system so that you can eliminate double entries and manual adjustments. Equally important, I suggest you look for a company that puts service first. Check with the company's current construction clients to make sure their payroll needs are handled accurately and efficiently.
Good luck in your search.
Fred
Construction Business Owner, July 2008
