> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.allscale.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.allscale.io/allscale-payroll/understanding-payroll.md). # Understanding Payroll {% hint style="success" %} **AllScale tip:** AllScale’s payroll system runs **automatically**, but knowing what each status means helps you stay in control. Whether it's **setting up funds**, **approving a payment**, or **fixing a failed transfer**, this table walks you through what’s happening and what (if anything) you need to do. 📌 **Why it matters:** * Avoid missed or delayed payments * Know when to take action (and when to relax!) * Keep your team paid on time, every time 💬 *Tip: You’ll receive automatic email notifications whenever your payroll status changes—no need to constantly check back.* 👇 Refer to the table below for a breakdown of each payroll state. {% endhint %}


Payroll State	What It Means	Business Action
Draft	Payroll is created after the last payroll due date but not yet approved.	Approve the payroll. If not approved 48 hours before the due date, you will receive an email reminder.
Approved	Payroll is approved by the business.	Ensure sufficient funds before the due date. You can still cancel if needed. You’ll receive an email if funds are insufficient 48 hours prior to the due date.
Ready	Payroll is approved, funds are sufficient, and the scheduled pay date has arrived.	No further action is needed unless you need to cancel. The payment should process within 24 hours.
Paid	Funds have been successfully transferred.	No action needed. Payroll is complete and cannot be reverted. You’ll be notified of successful payment.
Overdue	Payroll reached the pay date without sufficient funds.	Top up your account and retry (moves to Ready), or cancel. You’ll be notified immediately.
Failed	Fund transfer attempt was unsuccessful.	Retry (moves to Ready) or cancel. You’ll receive an email about the failed transaction.
Cancelled	Payroll was canceled by the business or admin.	No action required unless you want to recreate the payroll. You’ll be notified of the cancellation.

#### 🔄 Payroll Flow Overview This chart shows the **lifecycle of a payroll run** in AllScale. * **Thick black lines** represent the **optimal path**:\ `Draft → Approved → Ready → Paid` * **Grey lines** indicate **edge cases or exception states**, such as: * **Overdue**: When there are insufficient funds by the pay date * **Cancelled**: When a payroll is manually stopped * **Failed**: When the payment transfer is unsuccessful