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 payroll support groups in PNW

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Anonymous Member's profile image
Anonymous Member posted 05-02-2024 13:28
This message was posted by a user wishing to remain anonymous

Does anyone know of a payroll support group through either PayrollOrg or through Viewpoint Vista (construction software) that meets regularly either in-person or virtually either in Vancouver, WA or Portland, OR or somewhere closeby those?  It seems that the Oregon payroll chapters have all closed since COVID and driving three hours one-way to Seattle once a month for a 2-hour meeting simply isn't feasible.  

Right now, I rely on our company Controller to learn of tax and legislative changes for the states we do business in (OR, WA, CA, ID and AZ) from the CFMA meetings she attends but she wants me to find a payroll support group that meets monthly or quarterly to find things out on my own.  Purchasing the state publications from PayrollOrg is not company approved so in-person or virtual meetings fits the bill. 

Your suggestions are much appreciated.

Melissa Doumbia, CPP's profile image
Melissa Doumbia, CPP posted 05-02-2024 13:57

Hi, have you checked if the Seattle chapter offers a virtual option for meetings? Just a thought as our chapter (Twin Cities) offers a remote option for in-person meetings.

Walter Richards's profile image
Walter Richards posted 05-03-2024 13:02

I'd wonder why purchasing support materials aren't company approved.
Do they not support membership/subscriptions for their professionals?

I'd go ahead and purchase it on your own.
You can then turn in a reimbursement request - or itemize it on your taxes, if that is refused.
I had to do that for a couple years before I convinced my employer to pay.

Unfortunately, in answer to your question, it seems a lot of professional support meetings met their end during COVID.
There used to be a Kronos PNW Healthcare group that met every 6 months, which ended due to COVID.

Diana Robbins's profile image
Diana Robbins posted 05-04-2024 11:55

The Rainier Chapter used to be active in Seattle area (which you said wasn't really feasible for you), but they've gone very inactive.  Seems like a lot of volunteer based groups have burnt out and fizzled, sadly. 

Julie Eggebeen's profile image
Julie Eggebeen posted 05-04-2024 13:25

The Rainier Chapter is still active, but not a lot of meetings. There was a one day conference held in Tacoma last September. 

You can reach out to the chapter at john@thelestocks.com or info@rainierchapterapa.org

Rudy Hernandez, CPP's profile image
Rudy Hernandez, CPP posted 05-05-2024 12:05

I became a CPP on April 20, 2024 and have been trying to join a local support group and have left several messages that have not been answered. I live on the Central Coast. Of California.

Tommy Windsor, CPP's profile image
Tommy Windsor, CPP posted 05-05-2024 12:18

Have you thought of attending virtual meetings through a different chapter.  For example, my chapter offers educational classes as well as the majority of our educatioan meetings are held virtually.  I know there are other chapters which also offer their support, and networking capabilities virtually.  I believe PAYO maintains a listing of chapters which could offer assistance to you.