ADP Payroll Under Review – Meaning, Timeline, and Employee Actions
ADP payroll under review explained in a clear FAQ format. Learn why payroll is paused, how long it lasts, and how to respond as an employee or employer.
PAYROLL PLATFORMS
Abram Pandey
1/27/20262 min read
What Does “Payroll Under Review” Mean?
“Payroll under review” means ADP has temporarily stopped processing payroll to verify data, compliance, or unusual changes. This protects both the employer and employees from incorrect or non-compliant payments.
It does not mean payroll is canceled or denied.
Why ADP Puts Payroll Under Review
Instead of guessing, here are the exact triggers that usually cause a review.
Sudden Payroll Changes
Large increases or decreases in total payroll
Mass bonuses or commissions
Multiple retro pay adjustments
Bank or Funding Issues
New or changed bank account
Insufficient funds warning
First payroll with a new employer account
Compliance or Tax Flags
New state registrations
Missing tax filings
Employee classification changes
Security Checks
Login from a new location
Unusual payroll timing
High-risk transaction patterns
Payroll Under Review: Typical Timeline
Day 0
Payroll is submitted and flagged for review.
Day 1
ADP or payroll admin verifies payroll details.
Day 2–3
Review clears and payroll processes normally
OR
Payroll is released as an off-cycle payment.
Most reviews resolve within one to three business days.
What Employees Should Do
You usually do not need to take action, but here is how to stay proactive.
Check your pay statement status in ADP
Ask HR if payroll is delayed or under review
Confirm expected pay date
Watch for off-cycle deposit notifications
If the delay exceeds one pay cycle, request written confirmation.
What Employers or Payroll Admins Should Do
If you manage payroll, act fast.
Review ADP alerts or emails
Confirm bank funding status
Verify recent pay changes
Respond promptly to ADP requests
Approve payroll release once cleared
Fast responses shorten review time dramatically.
Will Payroll Be Late?
Sometimes. If the review finishes after the processing cutoff:
Direct deposits may arrive late
Paper checks may be reissued
Off-cycle payments may be used
Most employers prioritize releasing funds as soon as ADP clears payroll.
Is Payroll Under Review a Bad Sign?
No. It is usually a protective measure, not a penalty.
Reviews are common when:
A company is growing
Payroll changes are complex
Security systems detect anomalies
Think of it as a pause, not a failure.
ADP payroll under review is a temporary verification step. Most reviews clear quickly, and employees are paid once checks are complete. Stay informed, communicate clearly, and follow up if timelines slip.
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