Salary calculation in Serbia: a practical guide for employers
Correct payroll starts with good data and clear procedures. In the guide, we go through the steps from preparing work and leave records, through net/gross calculations, taxes and contributions, to pay slips and payment orders. We will also deal with special situations (overtime, minimum wage, sick leave) and end with a checklist that reduces errors and saves time.
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Overview
What to check before payment: steps, deadlines and controls
Correct payroll protects your business from fines, reduces risks and builds trust with employees. Below is a concise, practical guide to the key steps — without getting into the changing percentages, which are updated regularly.
What you need before billing
- Employment contracts and wage decisions
- Records of working hours, overtime and absences
- Data on benefits (hot meal, transport, daily wages)
- Updated rates and tax-free amounts (check current regulations)
Calculation steps
- Determine the gross basis according to the contract and attendance at work.
- Applicable taxes and contributions are applied (at the expense of the employee and the employer).
- You get net earnings, with separate calculations of fees and past work.
- Create payroll and billing reports; prepare payment orders.
Special situations
- Sick leave, maternity leave, business travel and allowances - require additional grounds and deadlines.
- Minimum earnings - pay attention to matching and the difference to the minimum.
- Benefits - the treatment of benefits (eg vouchers) depends on regulations and internal policies.
Pre-payment checks
- Are all absences entered?
- Do payrolls correspond with contracts and overtime?
- Are all payment orders ready and on time?
FAQ
- When is the salary paid? Within the terms specified by the employer's contract/deed and the law; a fixed date is recommended.
- What is included in the gross? Basic salary, allowances and part of benefits; check the current rules.
- How to register overtime? According to the records of working hours and with the allowance provided for in the regulations.
Do you need a safe settlement? Schedule a consultation with the FEDRA team.
