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Understanding payroll deadlines and how they affect pay dates

This article explains when payroll must be submitted, what happens if the deadline is missed, and how statutory holidays can shift payroll timing.

Rachel Fisch avatar
Written by Rachel Fisch
Updated over a month ago

When is the payroll deadline?

  • Payroll must be submitted by 4:30 PM EST on the scheduled due date

  • This ensures enough time to process direct deposits on schedule

💡 Tip: Submit early in the day to avoid delays, especially during high-volume periods


What happens if you miss the deadline?

  • If a delayed pay date is acceptable you can select a new pay date.

  • If the pay date cannot be changed in time:

    • The payment method will switch to manual (cheque or EFT)

    • Clients must issue payments themselves


What if the deadline falls on a statutory holiday?

  • The system will automatically adjust the approval deadline to the previous business day

  • This ensures direct deposit timelines still align with bank availability

Example: If the deadline is Monday (a holiday), it will move to the previous Friday


Summary

Situation

Outcome

On-time submission

Direct deposit processes as scheduled

Missed deadline

Manual payment required, or pay date must change

Deadline on a holiday

Deadline moves to the previous business day

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