In this topic
- Introduction
- Setup and Configuration
- Qualifying Earnings Rules
- STP Reporting
- Maximum Contributions Base (MCB)
- Getting Help
Introduction
This topic answers frequently asked questions about Qualifying Earnings configuration, Pay Day Super, and how ePayroll handles it all.
Disclaimer: This documentation explains how ePayroll handles Qualifying Earnings configuration for Pay Day Super. For regulatory advice on your specific obligations under Australian superannuation law, consult the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), your accountant, or a payroll professional.
Setup and Configuration
Q1: Do I need to update all my paycodes?
A: ePayroll has pre-filled QE mappings for all paycodes based on your Ordinary Time Earnings (OTE) configuration. You do not need to update every paycode — but you do need to review all mappings and update any that don’t correctly reflect your organisation’s setup. Once you’re satisfied, click Save and Confirm.
Q2: What happens if I don’t confirm my QE mappings before 1 July 2026?
A: ePayroll will use the pre-populated QE values in your STP submissions. However, these defaults may not match your specific payroll setup, so your reported QE and Super Liability (L) values may be inaccurate. We strongly recommend confirming your mappings before 15 June 2026.
Q3: Can I change my QE mappings after confirming?
A: Yes. You can return to Employer → STP2 Config at any time to update your mappings. Changes take effect from the next pay run after saving.
Q4: Who in my organisation can update QE mappings?
A: Users with the following webroles can access, update, and confirm QE mappings:
- Employer Authority
- Employer Authority Limited
- Paid Payroll Authority
Q5: I confirmed my mappings but the banner is still showing. What should I do?
A: Try refreshing the page. If the banner persists, ensure you clicked both Save and Confirm in the popup (saving alone without confirming will not remove the banner). If the issue continues, contact the ePayroll Support Team.
Qualifying Earnings Rules
Q6: Are allowances qualifying earnings?
A: It depends on the type of allowance. Some allowances are qualifying; others are not. ePayroll pre-fills allowance paycodes based on how they are configured for Ordinary Time Earnings (OTE), but you should review each one carefully. When in doubt, consult the ATO’s Payday Super guidance or a payroll professional.
Q7: Does salary sacrifice affect my QE?
A: It depends on the type of salary sacrifice:
- Type S (salary sacrifice to super): No impact on QE
- Type O (salary sacrifice for other benefits, e.g., novated lease, pre-tax benefits): Reduces QE
- Post-tax deductions: No impact on QE
Example: If gross earnings are $5,000 and you have a $1,000 Type O salary sacrifice deduction (e.g., novated lease), the QE reported will be $4,000. The calculation is: QE = Gross QE paycodes − Type O deduction amounts.
Q8: What is the difference between QE and Super Liability (L)?
A: Qualifying Earnings (QE) is the earnings amount that counts toward the SG calculation for reporting purposes. Super Liability (L) is the calculated super amount owed, derived by applying the SG rate to Ordinary Time Earnings (OTE), not QE. Both are reported in every STP submission from 1 July 2026, and they can have different amounts.
STP Reporting
Q9: When will QE and Super Liability appear in my STP submissions?
A: From any pay run with a payment date of 1 July 2026 or later. Pay runs before this date are not affected.
Q10: Do I need to do anything extra in my pay runs to include QE in STP?
A: No. Once your QE mappings are confirmed, QE and L are automatically included in every STP2 submission. There is no additional step required during payroll processing.
Q11: What is the SSID and where do I find it?
A: The Software Subscription ID (SSID) is a unique identifier required for ATO registration under Payday Super. It is displayed in the Employer Details section on your Employer Home page. Use the copy icon to copy it to your clipboard.
Maximum Contributions Base (MCB)
Q12: Do I need to configure the MCB in ePayroll?
A: No. The MCB is fully automated. ePayroll applies the correct MCB cap to each pay run automatically and updates the cap when the ATO re-indexes it annually.
Q13: What happens if an employee earns above the MCB?
A: Once an employee’s cumulative QE for the year reaches the MCB, QE remains at that value for the rest of the financial year. ePayroll applies this cap automatically — you do not need to calculate or track it manually.
Getting Help
Q14: Where can I get regulatory advice about Payday Super?
A: For regulatory guidance, contact:
- The ATO — https://www.ato.gov.au
- Your accountant or tax advisor
- A payroll professional
Q15: Where can I get help with ePayroll?
A: For technical support with ePayroll, contact the ePayroll Support Team through your usual support channel.
