Payroll (Manual & Computerised) 5N1546 (Live Tutor Classes)

This is a standalone QQI Certified module, or part of the 5M2468 Business Administration or 5M1997 Office Administration Major Award.

Start Date
25 March  2026

End Date
29 Apr 2026

Start Date
09:30 am - 01:00 pm

39Days
00Hours
55Minutes
25Seconds

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Course Summary

Master the essential skills of payroll processing with this practical and interactive QQI Level 5 course. Delivered by experienced Tutors in 'Live' Tutor-led online classes. This course gives you the confidence to accurately handle manual and computerised payroll tasks using real-life examples and software simulations. This module is one of eight modules you can do to gain the full QQI 5M2468 Business Admin Major Award with Lir.

This is an ideal module for gaining the skills and knowledge for today's Payroll systems. Using up-to-date licensed Thesaurus Payroll software under the excellent tuition of our Tutors who have years of experience in a payroll environment. We also offer a Level 6 Payroll module 6N4005.

Course Content

Unit 1 - Welcome to Payroll
🧾 Payroll Basics: What Every Employee and Employer Should Know

Unit 2: Understanding PAYE & PRSI
💶 Cracking the Code: PAYE, PRSI & How Your Pay is Calculated

Unit 3: The Cumulative Tax System
📊 Step-by-Step with Cumulative Tax: Getting It Right Every Time

Unit 4: Emergency & Week 1/Month 1 Tax Systems
🚨 Tax Troubleshooting: Emergency, Week 1 & Month 1 Explained

Unit 5: Tax Assessment Methods
📋 How Revenue Sees You: Inside Tax Assessments & What They Mean

Unit 6:  Effects of Budget Changes
📈 From Budget to Payslip: How Government Decisions Affect Your Pay

Unit 7: Computerised Payroll
💻 Payroll: Learning to Process Pay the Digital Way

Unit 8: Payroll Processing Practice
🔁 Hands-On Payroll: Real-Life Processing Scenarios in Action

Here is a Comparison Table to help you Choose:

Level 5 vs Level 6 – What’s the difference when completing your course at Lir?
Feature
Level 5 – Payroll Manual & Computerised (5N1546)
Level 6 – Payroll Manual & Computerised (6N4005)
Level Type
Foundation / Practical
Advanced / Analytical
Who It’s For
Beginners or those new to payroll
Learners who already understand and can run payroll confidently
Prior Knowledge Required
No prior payroll qualification required
Strongly recommended: Level 5 Payroll or equivalent practical experience
Main Focus
Learning how to process payroll accurately
Managing, analysing and interpreting complex payroll scenarios
Manual Payroll Skills
  • Process cumulative payroll
  • Calculate PAYE, PRSI, USC, Pensions
  • Complete tax deduction cards
  • Process complex manual scenarios over multiple periods
  • Handle redundancy, BIK and complex tax adjustments
Computerised Payroll Skills
  • Set up employees
  • Run weekly/monthly payroll
  • Print payslips and statutory forms
  • Mid-year company setup
  • Complex employee scenarios
  • Edit errors from previous periods
  • Analyse management reports
Tax Systems Covered
Cumulative, Emergency and Temporary systems
Advanced handling of cumulative adjustments, under/overpayments and complex transfers
Revenue Online Systems
Introduction to Revenue processes
In-depth analysis of ROS and MyAccount systems
Legislation
Understand impact of tax changes
Interpret working time legislation and payroll-related employment law
Benefit-in-Kind (BIK)
Introduction
Detailed calculation and taxation of BIK (company cars, medical insurance, accommodation, etc.)
Complex Scenarios
Mid-year start, leaving employment, tax credit changes
Redundancy payments, under/overpayment corrections, legislative impact, multi-period analysis
Assessment Style
Practical assignments + exam focused on payroll processing
Analytical assignments + practical exam focused on advanced payroll management
Outcome
You can confidently run weekly or monthly payroll
You can manage complex payroll systems and interpret payroll legislation
Progression
Progress to Level 6 Payroll or other Level 6 business awards
Progress to senior payroll roles or further NFQ Level 6/7 study
Level 5 (5N1546)
Foundation / Practical
Best for: Beginners or those new to payroll
Focus: Learning how to process payroll accurately
Key skills:
  • Cumulative payroll processing
  • PAYE, PRSI, USC, pensions
  • Tax deduction cards
  • Weekly/monthly payroll runs
  • Payslips + statutory forms
Outcome: You can confidently run weekly or monthly payroll
Level 6 (6N4005)
Advanced / Analytical
Best for: Learners who already understand and can run payroll confidently
Recommended: Level 5 first (or equivalent experience)
Key skills:
  • Complex multi-period scenarios
  • BIK, redundancy, corrections
  • Mid-year company setup
  • Edit errors + analyse reports
  • Legislation + Revenue online systems
Outcome: You can analyse and manage complex payroll systems

Main differences between Level 5 and Level 6

The main differences between 5N1546 Payroll (Manual & Computerised) this course, and 6N4005 Payroll (Manual & Computerised) Advanced is their NFQ level, learning outcomes, complexity, and expectations for learner autonomy and responsibility. Both qualifications are valuable — but they are designed for different stages of your payroll journey. Here's a comparison:

Level 5 Payroll Manual and Computerised (5N1546) - Foundation, Practical, Job-Ready. Level 5 is where you build your core payroll competence. At Level 5, the focus is on accurate processing and practical competence. It is ideal if you are new to payroll, want to work in accounts, administration or finance, need strong foundational knowledge and want to fully understand how payroll works "behind the scenes".  

You learn how to:

  • Run weekly and monthly payrolls correctly 
  • Understand how calculations work manually (not just click buttons)  
  • Build confidence using payroll software
  • Build confidence using payroll software

👉 We strongly recommend that learners complete Level 5 before progressing to Level 6. This ensures you can confidently process a full payroll cycle independently before moving to more complex legislative and analytical work as this will not be covered at Level 6.

Level 6 Payroll Manual and Computerised (6N4005) - Advanced. Analytical. Professional-Level. Level 6 builds on the practical competence developed at Level 5.  This is not a beginner’s course.  It assumes you can already: process weekly and monthly payroll runs, handle cumulative, emergency and temporary tax systems, complete statutory payroll forms, understand manual tax deduction cards, and work confidently with payroll software.

At Level 6, you more into complex payroll scenarios and deeper legislative understanding, including:

  • Interpreting payroll-related legislation (e.g. working time, employee rights) 
  •  Analysing Revenue documentation (Tax Credit Certificates, Balancing Statements)  
  • Using and evaluating ROS and MyAccount systems  
  • Processing benefit-in-kind (company cars, medical insurance, accommodation)  
  • Handling redundancy payments and lump sums  
  • Managing overpayments and underpayments of tax  
  • Analysing management payroll reports  
  • Setting up payroll systems mid-year with complex employee scenarios

Level 6 requires strong analytical ability, confidence with legislation, fully understanding of cumulative calculations and accuracy across multiple payroll periods. This level prepares for senior payroll roles, payroll supervisory positions, progression to further Level 6 business or accounting awards.

In short:
Level 5 teaches you how to DO payroll. Level 6 teaches you how to ANALYSE and MANAGE payroll.

Not Sure Which Level Is Right for You?
 If you:  
Have never processed payroll before → Start at Level 5  
Have processed payroll but never completed a qualification → We usually recommend Level 5 first  
Already hold Level 5 Payroll or have strong hands-on payroll experience → Level 6 may be suitable  

We are happy to guide you before enrolment to ensure you choose the correct level.

Why  'Live' Tutor-led Online Classes are a Game-Changer 

Do you learn best with structure, real-time interaction, and guidance as you go? Our Live Tutor-Led Online Classes give you all the benefits of classroom learning — without leaving your home.

 This isn’t just another Zoom call. It’s dynamic, engaging, and human-centred learning, designed to build your confidence, skills, and sense of progress each week.

Here's What Makes It Work ...

  • 📅 Scheduled weekly classes – build your skills step by step with clear direction.
  • 👩‍🏫 Live access to your tutor – ask questions, get real-time feedback, and learn together.
  • 👥 Peer support – connect with fellow learners during class discussions and group activities.
  • 💬 Interactive format – not just lectures, but conversation, roleplays, and active learning.

📚 The research backs it up:

According to Allen & Seaman (2017) and Wang et al. (2021), learners in 'live', synchronous online classes are more likely to feel connected, engaged, and successful when compared with fully asynchronous learning alone.

💬 What You Can Expect at Lir:

💻 Weekly Zoom Classes with Your Tutor

Join your scheduled sessions each week and enjoy face-to-face learning from the comfort of your home.

🧠 Live Q&A and Group Learning Activities

Practice real-world scenarios with feedback and encouragement from your tutor and classmates.

📧 Ongoing Tutor Support

Get help between classes via email or message. We’re always here when you need us.

🫶 Friendly, Supportive Group Environment

You’re not just another name on the screen — we get to know our learners and help them succeed..

In order to commence this programme, you must have either successfully completed a programme at a level 5 QQI Certificate/ equivalent qualifications. If you do not have the required qualification you may also be eligible if you can demonstrate that you have the necessary skills to complete this module. If you have a Level 5 Certification and a computer skills qualification at Level 5 in Word Processing and Spreadsheets, and/or life/work experience at that level or higher. 

Our Recommendation:   We strongly recommend completing Level 5 before progressing to Level 6.  
Level 6 assumes that you can:  
 - Independently process a full weekly or monthly payroll  
 - Understand manual cumulative calculations  
 - Confidently operate payroll software  
- Complete statutory documentation without supervision  
Level 5 teaches you how to DO payroll. Level 6 teaches you how to ANALYSE and MANAGE payroll. 

If you have a disability, medical condition or learning difficulty: In line with the Equal Status Acts 2000 to 2015 - we provide reasonable accommodation to meet the needs of our learners to ensure fairness and equality with others. See Learner Supports for further information.

IT/Computer Skills - sufficient working knowledge of computers.   You must have access to a PC (desktop), laptop or mobile device with internet access, Windows 8 or later or a Mac with OSX 10.5 or later, a browser with the latest version of Microsoft Edge, Chrome, Firefox or Safari, Adobe Reader to view PDFs.    Camera: Your device must have a working camera and audio. PC must be capable of playing video and audio files.   Software: We can provide you with access to Microsoft 365 Office applications (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Outlook, Teams), Zoom and a Bookkeeping Software Licence.

Blended Learning: You must be self-motivated and be able to take responsibility for your own self-directed learning, outside the 'Live' Tutor online classes as you complete your blended learning course, or in the Fully Online Self-paced modules. Be disciplined in self-directed learning in line with practical preparation, study, and reflection time where appropriate. You have to set time aside. You will be expected to: fluently read, draft, prepare and understand material which is relevant and reflects a broad personal knowledge. fluently read, draft, prepare and understand quantitative data. problem-solving within a group or a number of groups and independently. It is expected that you will have a range of learning styles, strengths and needs related to the programme and have the capacity to take responsibility for your own learning within the managed classroom and online environment, provided by Lir Business Services & Training Centre.  

You must reside in Ireland and have a valid PPS Number.

The interview process ascertains existing levels of knowledge, skills competence and English language proficiency. A copy of your current Curriculum Vitae or certificate will be required and Photo ID.  The Induction will be carried out using Zoom, so you must have a working camera, a microphone for the session.

Learners will also require a good command of the English language and have a recognised English language qualification.      An assessment of English writing and comprehension may be given to ensure equivalency with English language speaking and learning to assess a minimum standard level.     Leaving Certificate (H7/06 in English).

English Language:  This course is completed using the English language.  
QQI 5N1642 English as a Second Language (merit or distinction).  
QQI 5N0690 Communications Level 5 (merit or distinction).  
CEFR - Common European Framework for Languages (level B2 or higher). A competency test may be carried out for English language and literacy and/or computer skills to ensure that you have the skills necessary to complete the programme.    
IELTS Indicator Test The minimum score is 6 unless otherwise stated.  
TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition The minimum score is 92 unless otherwise stated.   Duolingo English Test The minimum score required is 95 unless stated otherwise.  
Exam English If you are unsure of your current level, you can take a free test on sites such as this one.    https://www.ieltsindicator.com  International English Language Testing System - Academic The minimum score is 6 unless otherwise stated. https://www.ets.org/s/cv/toefl/at-home/  TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition.  Test of English as a Foreign Language. Internet-based test (minimum score is 100 out of 120.  Reading and Writing not less than 22. https://englishtest.duolingo.com/applicants. The minimum score required is 95 unless stated otherwise.  

If you are unsure of your current level, you can take a free test on a number of sites, like http://www.examenglish.com/leveltest/index.php, or contact Lir Reception (044) 9342754 to speak to a qualified person who can assist you.    If you are unsure contact Lir Reception (044) 9342754 to speak to a Training Consultant who will be able to assist you.     

How do I book my course?

First of all, contact Lir Reception (044) 9342754 before you book. This way you will get an opportunity to speak with a Training Professional to discuss your options and to make sure that this module is the best one for you. To register, fill out our Lir Registration Form. You will have been given an Access Code for this form.  Once registered we set you up with a Lir Microsoft email address which gives you access to Microsoft 365 software, at no extra cost to you. From there we send you access details on how to access your course so you can avail of the 'Live' Tutor scheduled Online Classes, Learner Supports and give you access to the Lir eLearning Hub.

Course Delivery - QQI Level 5 Payroll - 5N1546

  • Online Classroom-based, face-to-face 'Live Tutor instruction in an online class environment. 
  • Blended learning (hybrid model where a portion of learning is classroom-based and a portion of which is online learning. 
  • Tutor support available between classes (online, text, WhatsApp, email, telephone, face-to-face, and optional Lir Study Sessions).

Certification and Assessment - QQI Level 5 Payroll - 5N1546

Following the successful completion of this module, you will receive a QQI Level 5 component certificate in Payroll (5N1546) from QQI.  

Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) is the national awarding body for further education and training in Ireland.  

Lir Business Services & Training Centre Ltd is registered with QQI, as a Private Training Provider,  to offer programmes leading to QQI  awards on the National Framework off Qualifications in Ireland (N.F.Q.)     

Learner Progression: Learners who successfully complete this module may use the associated credits towards a relevant Major Award.    

Assignment: 60%, and Exam: 40%    Grading: Pass 50% - 64%, Merit 65% - 79%, Distinction 80% - 100%

5N1546 Duration

A Blended and Online Course with 'Live' Tutor classes, optional Virtual Office Hours and Tutorials. 6 x morning classes or  8 x evening classes plus self-directed learning with online support. Always check with Upcoming Course Schedule for start dates.

This course comprises of 1 module. The duration of this module is typically 150 hours. This is a combination of 50 hours of Directed Learning and 100 hours of Self-directed learning. The 50 hours of Directed Learning takes place in Classroom Attendance and 'Live' Tutor Online Classes. Self-directed Learning is learner-led, and it includes self-directed study, through Lir eLearning Hub.

This will entail preparation and reflection time on your part. There are Virtual Office Hours (Lir Study Zone) throughout the week also to give you the opportunity of meeting your Tutor online, if you have any queries.

Progression - QQI Level 5 Payroll - 5N1546

Upon successful completion of a Major award, learners can progress to an award on the next level on the NFQ.

Alternatively, the Higher Education Links Scheme (HELS) gives learners the opportunity to use their QQI Level 5/6 Major Award to apply through the CAO for a place in the first year of a higher education programme.

In some instances, progression is on the basis of specific Level 5 or 6 Major Awards, Learners should check with the higher education institution prior to commencement. Components (Minor Awards), or achievement of less than 120 credits, will not suffice for progression under the HELS

When can I start ? - QQI Level 5 Payroll - 5N1546

Lir Reception: To speak with a Training Consultant about your course, contact Lir Reception at (044) 9342754 or email  training@lirbusinesscentre.com.    

Lir Registration Form:  Fill out the Lir Learner Registration Form online. 

Frances

Director of Training/Tutor
frances@lirbusinesscentre.com

Joan

Training Co-Ordinator
joan@lirbusinesscentre.com

Deirdre

Tutor/Facilitator
deirdre@lirbusinesscentre.com

"Great course with amazing tutor. Can 100% recommend the live online classes."
Lena

(2025)

"Tutor always accessible. Study the videos. Easy to use learner study material. The Lir Team back you all the time & always there for help, so you have a class & a team wishing you encouragement."
Glynis

(2025)

"The course is easy to follow and very informative."
Owen

(2025)

"I found this course very interesting and hope it will help me in my future career. "
Sylvia

(2025)

"Deirdre was very helpful with any questions that I had and always available for help. Very detailed course and easy to access and understand, would highly recommend this course for anyone working or looking to work in payroll."
Simone H

(2024)

“I wasn't sure I was going to enjoy this course, or indeed be able for it, however Deirdre made it enjoyable and easy to understand, there was never a silly question to her which made life so much easier. I'm glad I completed it and now have a much better understanding of the process."
Lorraine B.

(2024)

"I was very happy with Deirdre's style of delivering this course. Assignments you had the option of practicing and completing in between course material which helped you understand and complete in preparation for the final exam I found very helpful. I really enjoyed this course."
Sinead O'L

(2024)

"The course was great; I had a great tutor very kind, and patient and I would do it again "
Carmen B

(2024)

“I am very satisfied with this course and would like to recommend to everyone who are interested in payroll. "
Madalina P

(2024)

 "Deirdre is obviously a subject expert and she is an excellent communicator. She helped me negotiate the course and made it enjoyable and fun.  Real life examples, tutor knowledge, practice exercises. Excellent course delivered by friendly and knowledgeable tutor, very enjoyable. Aidan.Thanks again Deirdre." 

Aidan O'D.
Learner

 "This course is not only useful in a professional capacity but also on a personal level. As the years go by, Irish taxes and rates continue to change, and this course may help people stay informed about those updates. It provides a clear understanding of how different elements such as tax, PRSI, and USC are calculated, empowering individuals to know exactly where their money goes. It will build confidence in reading and interpreting their payslip while also promoting financial awareness."

Lisa
2025

 "Great experience. Thank you, Deirdre & Frances Lir Business Centre. All relevant information was to hand. All training videos to hand easily accessible. Tutor always accessible. Study the videos. Easy to use learner study material. The Lir Team backs you all the time & always there for help, so you have a class & a team wishing you encouragement. I am a repeat client with Lir & my close friend recommended then to me. " 

Glynis A.
2025

Blended Online Course

€300

  • 'Live' Tutor Online Weekly Scheduled Sessions
  • Lir Upcoming Course Dates
  • Self-directed Learning - Lir eLearning Hub
  • Tutor Online Support
  • Lir Mobile Course App
  • Blended Learning Online
  • Lir Microsoft 365 Software
  • Lir Payroll Software
  • Lir Learner Supports
  • Lir Community Chat
  • Flexi Payment Option
  • CE Participant Rate (Contact Lir Reception 044-934 2754)
  • Or In-Company (Tailor-made Course)

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Other Modules to consider towards the Lir QQI 5M2468 Business Administration Major Award
and other Awards such as the 5M1997 Office Administration Major Award

Business Administration L5

Bookkeeping
 L5

Work
Experience L5

Word
Processing L5

Text
Production L5

Communications
Level 5

Customer
Service L5

Database
Methods L5

Medical
Terminology L5

Information and Administration L5

Intercultural
Studies L5

Digital
Marketing L5

Payroll
 L5

Reception and Frontline Office Skills

Research and Study Skills L5

Spreadsheet
Methods L5

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