Disaster recovery planning should include which element to ensure payroll continuity?

• A. A compatible off-site remote location to produce payrolls
• B. An excess supply of checks and direct deposit stubs
• C. Detailed documentation of current company policies
• D. A procedure for limiting security system access

Answer: (A)

The key idea is having a backup processing site that can take over payroll tasks if the primary location is unusable. In disaster recovery, the aim is to keep payroll running on schedule regardless of what happens to the main facility. A compatible off-site remote location ensures you can continue producing payrolls, whether by printing checks or running direct deposits, with access to the same software, data, and security measures. It provides true continuity by removing the single point of failure that a sole on-site operation represents, and it supports secure data transfer and timely payroll delivery even during a disruption.

Excess inventory of checks and stubs doesn’t guarantee ongoing processing capability if systems or facilities are down. Detailed policy documentation is important, but it doesn’t by itself enable payroll to be produced during a disaster. Limiting access to security systems is a security control and helpful for protection, but it’s not the mechanism that ensures payroll can be produced and delivered when the primary site isn’t available.