Book-keepers, payroll managers and wages clerks Salary
Median salary £27,743 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.
Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £28,000 after tax and National Insurance →
For book-keepers, payroll managers and wages clerks, £31,560 is the typical (median) pay. That is below the UK full-time median of £39,039 — -19% versus the national average. Experienced book-keepers, payroll managers and wages clerks (top 25%) earn over £35,464.
About this role
Book-keepers, payroll managers and wages clerks maintain financial records, process payroll and ensure employees are paid accurately and on time. They handle PAYE, pension contributions, statutory payments and financial record-keeping.
Key responsibilities
- Processing payroll and ensuring accurate employee payments
- Managing PAYE, NIC and pension contributions
- Maintaining financial records and ledgers
- Processing statutory payments (SSP, SMP, SPP)
- Preparing and submitting RTI returns to HMRC
Qualifications and entry routes
AAT qualification is the standard for bookkeepers. CIPP (Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals) qualification for payroll specialists. ICB and IAB qualifications are also recognised.
Career outlook
Payroll professionals remain in demand despite automation. Pension and employment tax complexity sustains need for skilled practitioners.
Key skills
Common industries
- All sectors
- Payroll bureaux
- Accounting firms
- SMEs
- Public sector
Data coverage
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Entry Level
£10,000
0-2 years
Mid Level
£19,148
3-7 years
Senior
£35,464
8-15 years
Leadership
£45,998
15+ years
Potential career growth: ▲ +360% from entry to leadership
Salary Trend (2015-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Gender pay gap: 12.6%
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
Full-time premium: +£3,817
Book-keepers, payroll managers and wages clerks salary: common questions
How much do book-keepers, payroll managers and wages clerks earn in the UK?
Is £31,560 a good salary in the UK?
What is the starting salary for book-keepers, payroll managers and wages clerks?
How much do the highest-paid book-keepers, payroll managers and wages clerks earn?
Have book-keepers, payroll managers and wages clerks salaries kept up with inflation?
Is there a gender pay gap for book-keepers, payroll managers and wages clerks?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025).