How to Easily Reconcile Wages In Xero For Beginners
Fahad Gul • March 3, 2023

Reconciling wages in Xero should be a breeze! Learn the simple steps to get started with this easy-to-follow guide for beginners.

How to Easily Reconcile Wages In Xero For Beginners



Reconciling wages in Xero can be a simple and straightforward process for beginners. With this step-by-step guide, you’ll quickly learn how to set up your payroll accounts, create payment runs, and reconcile your employee wages with ease.



Set Up an Accounts Payable Account in Xero. 


The first step to reconciling wages in Xero is to set up an Accounts Payable (AP) account. This is a type of current liability account where payments and other expenses incurred by the business are kept track of. To create the AP account, log in to your Xero dashboard and select ‘Accounts’ followed by ‘New Account’ and then ‘AP’. Enter all necessary details and save your new account when prompted.


Create a Payroll Liability Account in Xero. 


Once the AP account is created, you’ll need to create a Payroll Liability Account in Xero to reflect all wages paid out by your business. Just like the AP account, log in to your Xero dashboard and select ‘Accounts’ followed by ‘New Account’ and then ‘Payroll Liability’. Enter all necessary details and save your new account when prompted.


Set Up Automatic Payments for Employee Wages and Superannuation. 


After you’ve created a Payroll Liability Account in Xero and an AP account, it's time to create an automated payment system. This feature ensures that all employee wages and superannuation payments are transferred automatically from your business bank account at regular intervals. To set up automatic payments, go to your ‘Settings’ menu in Xero, followed by the ‘Payrun Settings’ tab then the Automation tab. From here, select the account linked to your bank where you want the funds deducted from, followed by the Payroll Liability Account which will be credited after each payment. Finally, select the frequency of payments (weekly/monthly) and save!


Record the Taxation Withheld From Employee Wages in Xero. 


Once you’ve set up the automatic payments through Xero, it’s time to record all taxes withheld from employee wages. To do this simply go to your Dashboard on Xero and select ‘New Transaction’. From here select your Payroll Liability account under Accounts to be debited and your Tax Account as the Credit Account. Enter any relevant information in the Description field, such as the company name, number of days worked and total amount due as well as a reference number if issued by the ATO (Australian Tax Office). Finally, hit ‘Save & Close’ to save your transaction!


Reconcile Bank Statements in Xero Against Payments Made to Employees and Superannuation Funds.


The next step is to reconcile the bank statement against each payment you’ve made in Xero. This is done by simply matching all deposits listed on the bank statement with each payment you’ve recorded in Xero. It’s a good idea to have your employee wages, superannuation fund payments and any tax payments already entered into Xero, this way it will be easier for you to make sure all the transactions match up exactly when checking via the monthly bank statement. Once you’ve double-checked everything has been accurate, hit save and that's it!


Talk to us if you need help.


Tax App is a team of experienced accountants and Xero experts who offer assistance and support to businesses using Xero. They specialize in providing personalized advice and guidance on how to make the most of the software, as well as troubleshooting any issues that users may encounter.


One of the main benefits of working with Tax App is the level of expertise and knowledge they bring to the table. They understand Xero inside and out and can help businesses leverage its features to streamline their accounting processes and improve their overall financial management. Whether you need help with setting up Xero, customizing it to your business needs, or resolving any technical issues, Tax App has the expertise to assist you.


Another advantage of working with Tax App is their personalized approach to support. They take the time to understand each client's unique needs and tailor their services accordingly. Whether you're a small business owner or a larger enterprise, they can work with you to find the best solutions to your Xero-related challenges.


In conclusion, if you're a business owner struggling with Xero or simply looking to optimize your use of the software, working with Tax App is a smart choice. With their expertise and personalized support, you can rest assured that your accounting processes will be streamlined, efficient, and error-free. So if you need help with Xero, talk to Tax App today!



Leading Australian Accounting Expert & Author: Fahad Gul 


Fahad Gul is a Partner at Tax App Accountants and a recognised voice in the Australian Accounting industry, having been featured in Accountants Daily. A three-time winner of prestigious Australian Accounting Awards, Fahad is known for combining technical precision with practical commercial advice.


He specialises in helping Australian small business owners and investors navigate complex accounting and tax hurdles. Through his writing, Fahad shares the award-winning strategies necessary to optimise tax positions and accelerate wealth building.


Connect with Fahad on LinkedIn find out more on Tax App's website

Expert Australian Accountant and Author: Alesha Masaud 


Alesha Masaud is a recognised authority in Australian tax strategy and a Partner at Tax App Accountants, a firm that has secured three national Australian Accounting Awards. Personally recognised as one of Australia's Top 50 Business Leaders and a winner of the Accounting Excellence Award, Alesha combines technical expertise with real-world commercial acumen.


She writes to cut through the complexity of the Australian tax system, empowering small business owners and dedicated wealth builders with high-level strategies to legally minimize liabilities and maximise long-term growth.


Connect with Alesha on LinkedIn or learn more at Tax App Accountants.


Disclaimer:

The content of these blog posts is intended to be of a general nature and should not be construed as tax or any other form of advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided in these blog posts. It is imperative that you consult with a qualified professional, such as a certified accountant at Tax App, before taking any action based on the advice or information contained herein. Your specific financial and tax situation may require personalised guidance, and a professional consultation is recommended to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.


Get Started with Us

Connect with Australia’s most innovative accountants today. Fill out our contact form, and let’s discuss how we can help you achieve your financial goals. Together, we’ll create a tailored action plan that maximises your tax savings.


Our Awards! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

innovative tax accountant
best accountant near me
sydney best tax accountant
sydney tax accountant best firm
award winning tax accountant sydney
top 50 small business tax leader

More blog posts

By Alesha Masaud December 14, 2025
Starting a business is a thrilling endeavour, filled with opportunities to explore, learn, and grow. For those ready to take the leap, it's crucial to lay a solid foundation to ensure success and sustainability. In a recent episode of the Business and Wealth Australia podcast, Alesha Masaud and business coach Simon Crisp delved into five key areas every aspiring entrepreneur should focus on before launching their business. Here’s their conversation and a breakdown of their insightful discussion.
By Alesha Masaud December 11, 2025
Insights by accountants on the importance of choosing the right business structure
Two people on a purple background; logos for Tax App Accountants and media outlets are at the bottom.
By Alesha Masaud November 13, 2025
However, as accountants, we often see generous business owners especially small business owners get hit with unexpected tax bills because they didn't adhere strictly to the complex rules around Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) and entertainment. Knowing the rules before you book that venue or buy those gifts can keep your tax costs to a minimum. Here is our guide to navigating the "silly season" without a tax hangover. The Golden Rule: The $300 Threshold The most critical number to remember this Christmas is $300 (GST-inclusive). Generally, if providing a benefit (like a party attendance or a gift) costs less than $300 per person and is provided infrequently, it may be considered an "exempt minor benefit". This means FBT does not apply. However, there is a trade-off: if it is exempt from FBT, you generally cannot claim it as a tax deduction, and you cannot claim GST credits. Scenario 1: The Staff Christmas Party 🎉 If you are planning a celebration, the location and cost determine the tax outcome. On-Premises Party: If you hold a party on a working day on your business premises for current employees only, and it costs less than $300 a head, FBT does not apply. Be aware that this cost is not tax deductible and you cannot claim GST credits. Off-Premises (e.g., Restaurant): If you go out to a restaurant, FBT generally applies if the cost is $300 or more per head. In this scenario, because you are paying FBT, the costs are tax deductible and GST credits are available. If it costs less than $300 per head off-premises: The minor benefit exemption should apply (meaning no FBT), but the cost will not be deductible. Many businesses find that keeping the cost below $300 per head to avoid administrative FBT burdens, even if it means losing the deduction, has less of a cash-flow impact than dealing with grossed-up FBT amounts. Scenario 2: Employee Gifts 🎁 Not all gifts are treated equally by the ATO. You must determine if the gift is "entertainment" or "non-entertainment." Entertainment Gifts (e.g., theatre or sporting tickets, holiday vouchers): If these are under $300, they are usually exempt from FBT, but not tax deductible. Non-Entertainment Gifts (The Sweet Spot): This includes things like Christmas hampers, bottles of alcohol, or gift vouchers. Our Top Tip: Non-entertainment gifts costing less than $300 are the most tax-effective way to show appreciation. Because they are not "entertainment," they are generally exempt from FBT, tax deductible, AND eligible for GST credits—giving you the best of both worlds. Scenario 3: Gifting to Clients 🤝 Wining and dining clients might seem like good business, but it is generally considered non-deductible entertainment. A much more tax-effective approach is providing a non-entertainment gift. If the gift is made with the reasonable expectation of creating goodwill for future business, it should be tax deductible and the GST credits are claimable. Need Help Planning? Mixing attendees (employees, partners, and clients) can make these calculations complex, as you may need to track exactly who participated. If you need help sorting out the tax treatment of your upcoming celebrations to ensure you aren't overpaying, don't hesitate to give the best accountant in Sydney a call. Disclaimer: This information has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Because of this, you should, before acting on this information, consider its appropriateness, having regard to your objectives, financial situation or needs.
Best Tax Deductions for Australians
By Alesha Masaud April 8, 2025
Maximise your tax refund with these top tax deductions every Australian should know. From work-related expenses to super contributions, this guide breaks down what you can legally claim—and how to do it right. Perfect for employees, business owners, and investors alike.
Image of Tax App's Free Property Income & Expense Tracker dashboard, showcasing features for trackin
By Fahad Gul November 9, 2024
Simplify your rental property finances with Tax App's free Property Income & Expense Tracker. Easily manage income, expenses, and generate automated reports.
Australian investment property with tax savings icons representing deductions, negative gearing
By Fahad Gul September 8, 2024
Maximise tax savings with your investment property! Learn how to claim deductions, understand negative gearing, and reduce capital gains tax in this ultimate guide for Australian investors.
Is Accessing Your Super Early Illegal?
By Tax App August 8, 2024
Table of Contents 1. Beware of Illegal Schemes for Early Super Acess 2. Consequences of Illegal Access to Your Super 3. Illegal Superannuation Schemes: What You Need to Know 4. What to Do if Approached by an Illegal Super Scheme Promoter 5. Conclusion
By Tax App August 7, 2024
Table of Contents 1.LowerTaxesforEveryAustralianTaxpayer 2. EnergyRebates 3. SupportingRenters 4. Improving Access toAffordableMedications 5.ReducingStudentDebt 6. Investigating SupermarketPricingand Competition 7. Government Support forAgedCare and Early Childhood Education Wages 8. Supporting Financial Stability and Education 9. Conclusion
By Tax App August 7, 2024
Table of Contents 1. What Is EOFY? 2. End of Financial Year Prep: 16 Key Steps to Take 3. Key Financial Practices to Maintain Throughout the Year 4. FAQs 5. Conclusion 6. Prepare Yourself For This EOFY with Tax App 7. Why choose Tax App?
By Tax App July 19, 2024
Table of Contents 1. Cars, Transport, and Travel 2. Workwear And Personal Items For The Office 3. Personal Grooming, Health And Fitness 4. Memberships, Accreditations, Fees, and Commissions 5. Work Essentials And Technology 6. Home-Based Work Expenditures 7. Work Tools and Computers 8. Self Education Expenses 9. Donations 10. Cost Of Managing Tax Affairs 11. To Wrap Up
More Posts