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How to Become a Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks in Iowa

Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks in Iowa earn a median salary of $49,990/year, which is 10% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~4.8%. After taxes and rent, a payroll and timekeeping clerks takes home approximately $1,903/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$50K
Median salary in Iowa
-10%
vs. national average
4.8%
State income tax
1,240
Employed in Iowa

What a payroll and timekeeping clerks can afford in Iowa

Gross annual salary$49,990
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.8% state tax)$3,315/mo
Median 2BR rent (Iowa)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home42.6% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$49,990/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,903/mo

Becoming a payroll and timekeeping clerks in Iowa

1

Meet education requirements

Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks positions in Iowa typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Iowa. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many payroll and timekeeping clerks positions in Iowa require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Iowa licensure or certification

Iowa may require specific licensing or professional certification for payroll and timekeeping clerkss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Iowa Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Iowa

Iowa employs 1,240 payroll and timekeeping clerks. The highest concentrations are in Des Moines-West Des Moines and Ames.

Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks salary by metro area in Iowa

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Des Moines-West Des Moines$56K$26.81/hr310
Ames$55K$26.62/hr30
Davenport-Moline-Rock Island$54K$25.8/hr180
Waterloo-Cedar Falls$51K$24.44/hr50
Sioux City$49K$23.58/hr40
Dubuque$44K$21.09/hr100

Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks salary range in Iowa

10th percentile (entry)
$36K
25th percentile
$41K
Median (50th)
$50K
75th percentile
$62K
90th percentile (senior)
$69K
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Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a payroll and timekeeping clerks make in Iowa?

The median payroll and timekeeping clerks salary in Iowa is $49,990 per year ($24.03/hr). This is 10% below the national median of $55,290. Salaries range from $36,270 to $69,130.

What are the requirements to become a payroll and timekeeping clerks in Iowa?

Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks positions in Iowa typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Iowa may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Iowa licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a payroll and timekeeping clerks afford to live in Iowa?

At the median salary of $49,990, a payroll and timekeeping clerks in Iowa would take home approximately $3,315/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 42.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for payroll and timekeeping clerks in Iowa?

The highest paying metro areas for payroll and timekeeping clerks in Iowa are Des Moines-West Des Moines ($55,760), Ames ($55,380), Davenport-Moline-Rock Island ($53,660). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Iowa have state income tax for payroll and timekeeping clerks?

Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.8%. On a $49,990 salary, this means roughly $2,424/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.