U.S. Workers Wary of AI in Payroll: Survey Shows Rising Concerns

Published Date : 18/09/2025 

Despite the increasing role of Artificial Intelligence in business operations, a significant number of U.S. workers are uncomfortable with AI handling their payroll and pay inquiries, according to a recent survey by PayrollOrg. 

Despite the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in business operations, workers remain hesitant about its use in payroll and the processing of their paycheck. Thirty-four percent of America's workers are uncomfortable with AI calculating their wages, while an even larger 45% oppose it handling payroll inquiries, according to the 2025 'Getting Paid In America' survey, conducted by PayrollOrg (PAYO).

The annual survey asked respondents how comfortable they are with the use of AI to calculate their pay. Of the 22,464 individuals who responded to this question, 7,588 respondents, or 34 percent, said they would be somewhat or very uncomfortable with the use of AI to calculate their pay. The survey also asked respondents how comfortable they are with AI tools answering their payroll questions instead of a person, and 10,108 respondents, or 45 percent, said they would be somewhat or very uncomfortable with AI tools answering their payroll questions.

The survey results suggest that maintaining human oversight will remain essential to building employee trust. At the same time, organizations are exploring ways to pair the efficiency of AI with the personalized support workers expect. Clear communication and greater transparency around how AI is used in payroll may be key to easing concerns and strengthening confidence.

'Payroll isn't just a transaction; it's a reflection of how much an organization values its people. When a single week's delay in pay can cause financial strain, speed and accuracy aren't just operational decisions, they are strategic imperatives. And while AI is reshaping the workplace, trust in it to manage pay remains low. That's a clear signal that technology alone is not enough,' said Teresa Smith, director of human insights at UKG. 'It must be anchored in thoughtful processes and designed with people at the center. When done right, it becomes the heartbeat of the employee experience, shaping financial wellbeing, operational confidence, and the credibility of the organization itself. Every paycheck sends a message: 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS): 

Q: What percentage of workers are uncomfortable with AI calculating their pay?

A: Thirty-four percent of workers are uncomfortable with AI calculating their pay, according to the 2025 'Getting Paid In America' survey.

Q: How many workers are uncomfortable with AI handling payroll inquiries?

A: Forty-five percent of workers are uncomfortable with AI handling payroll inquiries.

Q: Why is human oversight important in payroll management?

A: Human oversight is important in payroll management to build employee trust and ensure that the process is transparent and personalized.

Q: What is the 'Getting Paid In America' survey?

A: The 'Getting Paid In America' survey is an annual survey conducted by PayrollOrg to gather insights on payroll practices and employee concerns.

Q: What is National Payroll Week?

A: National Payroll Week is an annual public awareness campaign conducted by PayrollOrg to promote understanding and appreciation of payroll processes. 

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