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Simplify payday and set payroll to run automatically on QuickBooks. Explore QuickBooks Payroll
Welovethebooks
Level 1

Mapping Employee Deductions & Company Contributions

Hello everyone,

 

I found this explanation online and want to confirm if it’s correct for QuickBooks Online Payroll:

 

While the expense and liability are both affected, the direct mapping within the payroll item setup often focuses on which account the liability accumulates in. QuickBooks then generates the corresponding expense entry automatically as part of the overall payroll journal entry. So, you might primarily select the liability account in the setup, and the system handles the expense part behind the scenes.

 

If this is correct, does that mean:

  • For a Simple IRA company contribution, I would map it to the Company Match Liability account, and QBO would automatically create the related expense entry in the Company Match Expense account?

I want to ensure liabilities zero out after provider payments and that my P&L reflects the company match expense in the same period payroll is run.

 

Thank you,

 

M

1 Comment 1
IrishA
QuickBooks Team

Mapping Employee Deductions & Company Contributions

Yes, you're right that when setting up payroll items in QuickBooks, it will ask you to map the liability account where payroll-related balances will accumulate, Welovethebooks.

 

For example, when you establish the Simple IRA company contribution in QuickBooks Online Payroll, you will need to specify the liability account that will hold the funds until they are paid to the plan provider.

 

When you run payroll, QuickBooks automatically creates the expense entry. This ensures that your Profit & Loss (P&L) report accurately reflects the company's contribution expense in the same period as the payroll processed, aligning with the principles of accrual accounting.

 

Additionally, we also suggest consulting your accountant to ensure that your mapping is correctly aligned with your payroll preference.

 

Also, you can check out the article on how to set up a retirement plan deduction or a company contribution in QuickBooks Online Payroll for more detailed guidance.

 

If you have further questions or need assistance with steps, please leave a comment below. We are here to provide the necessary support.

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