New payroll tool a must for responsible businesses

11 May 2010 MEDIA RELEASE

New payroll tool a must have for socially responsible businesses

New Zealand businesses should offer payroll giving as part of policies to recruit and retain high valued staff, says Foresee Communications managing director, Heather Newell.

Payroll giving is a voluntary government scheme which allows employers to deduct donations from employees’ wages, sending the donation directly to the employees’ chosen charity.

Mrs Newell, who is presenting at the charitable payroll giving seminar on 21 May, says many employees have become more discerning about the type of benefits they want from their workplace.

“Employees have different motivational needs and for many individuals giving back to their community means more than a few extra dollars in the bank for themselves.

“As a consequence, more and more businesses are establishing corporate social responsibility practices and services, in part, to retain existing and recruit new staff.”

Mrs Newell says clients and consumers are also becoming more appreciative of organisations involved in corporate social responsibility initiatives.

“Businesses running payroll giving show customers they value their staff and support charitable activities in a practical way.”

Workers who donate through payroll giving receive an immediate tax credit when the donation is made.

“Not having to save your receipts and apply for a tax refund at the end of the year is a real benefit for philanthropic employees.”

Charitable payroll giving and fundraising for good seminars will be held in Dunedin on 20-21 May.

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