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How to Become a Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks in Tennessee

Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks in Tennessee earn a median salary of $50,140/year, which is 9% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a payroll and timekeeping clerks takes home approximately $2,115/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$50K
Median salary in Tennessee
-9%
vs. national average
None
State income tax
3,240
Employed in Tennessee

What a payroll and timekeeping clerks can afford in Tennessee

Gross annual salary$50,140
Est. monthly take-home (no state tax)$3,527/mo
Median 2BR rent (Tennessee)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home40% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$50,140/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,115/mo

Becoming a payroll and timekeeping clerks in Tennessee

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Tennessee licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Tennessee

Tennessee employs 3,240 payroll and timekeeping clerks. The highest concentrations are in Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin and Memphis.

Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks salary by metro area in Tennessee

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin$54K$25.82/hr1,280
Memphis$50K$24.01/hr470
Chattanooga$49K$23.68/hr220
Knoxville$49K$23.66/hr400
Clarksville$49K$23.56/hr90
Cleveland$48K$22.87/hr30
Jackson$47K$22.56/hr60
Kingsport-Bristol$46K$22.21/hr100
Morristown$43K$20.8/hr50
Johnson City$42K$20.24/hr70

Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks salary range in Tennessee

10th percentile (entry)
$37K
25th percentile
$43K
Median (50th)
$50K
75th percentile
$60K
90th percentile (senior)
$69K
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Frequently asked questions

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

The median payroll and timekeeping clerks salary in Tennessee is $50,140 per year ($24.11/hr). This is 9% below the national median of $55,290. Salaries range from $36,970 to $69,130.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $50,140, a payroll and timekeeping clerks in Tennessee would take home approximately $3,527/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 40% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for payroll and timekeeping clerks in Tennessee are Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($53,710), Memphis ($49,940), Chattanooga ($49,250). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means payroll and timekeeping clerks keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.