What distinguishes a manual check from a live check?

A manual check is distinguished primarily by its issuance outside the regular payroll schedule, which means it can be used for situations that require immediate payment or adjustments that cannot wait for the next payroll cycle. This could include scenarios such as issuing a check for an employee who is terminated abruptly or when a correction is needed for an earlier payroll error. In these cases, the manual check serves as a quick remedy that does not adhere to the established payroll processing timeline.

In contrast, live checks are typically part of the regular payroll schedule and represent the standard paycheck that employees receive on paydays. These checks usually encompass the standard deductions and withholdings that align with the established payroll frequency, making them a predictable and regular form of payment.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial for payroll professionals, as it helps to navigate and manage different payment situations efficiently.