New Client Shell IS and Auditor Checklist

Overview

This SOP outlines the expectations for completing the client shell build and audit only to ensure accuracy and readiness for the next phase of implementation.

The official Blank Client Shell Build & Audit Checklist is located in:
SharePoint → New Client Folder>Client Folder

This checklist must be used and completed for every client.

Implementation Specialist (IS) – Shell Build

The IS is responsible for completing the initial client shell setup in full alignment with the checklist.

Responsibilities

• Review all client documentation prior to build:
  • Data Gathering Sheet
  • Tax documentation
  • Bank information
• Build the client shell including:
  • Company setup
  • Payroll schedules & pay groups
  • Bank and funding setup
  • Tax setup (federal, state, local)
  • Earnings and deductions
  • Employee setup (if included in shell phase)

Expectations

• Follow the SharePoint checklist step-by-step
• Do not skip or assume any fields
• Flag and communicate missing or unclear data immediately
• Ensure all entries align with provided documentation

Auditor – Shell Audit

The Auditor is responsible for validating the accuracy of the shell build using the checklist.

Responsibilities

• Review all items completed by IS against the checklist
• Validate:
  • Company setup accuracy
  • Payroll schedules and configuration
  • Tax IDs and jurisdiction setup
  • Earnings, deductions, and taxability
  • Bank and funding setup
• Ensure all required fields are complete and accurate

Checklist Requirement

• The Client Shell Audit Checklist in SharePoint is mandatory
• All items must be:
  • Completed
  • Reviewed
  • Confirmed accurate

No shell should move forward without a completed audit checklist

Rework & Re-Audit Process

• If the Auditor identifies that the shell is incomplete, inaccurate, or requires updates:
  • The shell will be sent back to the Implementation Specialist who completed the build
  • The Auditor should clearly communicate the required corrections or missing items
• The Implementation Specialist is responsible for:
  • Making all necessary updates
  • Ensuring the checklist is fully completed
• Once corrections are made:
  • The Implementation Specialist must notify the Auditor that the shell is ready for re-review
• The Auditor will:
  • Re-audit the shell
  • Confirm all corrections have been completed
  • Approve the shell once it meets all requirements

Key Expectations

• Accuracy is the priority
• Use the checklist as the single source of truth
• Communicate gaps early
• Ensure a clean, audit-ready build before moving forward

New Client Shell IS and Auditor Checklist