Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 156,950 payroll and timekeeping clerks, and they earn a median of $55,290/year. The range runs from $37K to $79K. District of Columbia pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level payroll and timekeeping clerks start around $37K. The gap between that and the median ($55K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $79K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $69K | 350 |
| Washington | $62K | 3,880 |
| California | $62K | 23,180 |
| Minnesota | $61K | 2,700 |
| Connecticut | $61K | 1,540 |
| New Hampshire | $61K | 1,030 |
| New York | $61K | 9,040 |
| Massachusetts | $60K | 3,470 |
| Illinois | $60K | 6,060 |
| New Jersey | $60K | 4,350 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a payroll and timekeeping clerks make?▼
The median payroll and timekeeping clerks salary in the United States is $55,290 per year ($27/hour). Entry-level positions start around $36,670, while experienced professionals earn up to $78,830.
What education do you need to become a payroll and timekeeping clerks?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for payroll and timekeeping clerks?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for payroll and timekeeping clerks.
What are the highest paying states for payroll and timekeeping clerks?▼
The highest paying states for payroll and timekeeping clerks are District of Columbia ($69,210), Washington ($62,310), California ($61,670), Minnesota ($60,780), Connecticut ($60,720). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.