Overview of Calculation Value Definitions

A calculation value definition specifies how a value is provided or calculated.

The value isn't necessarily monetary. Typically, it's a flat amount or rate, but it could be a date or a text value, such as a tax code, depending on the calculation type. Some definitions hold the values in a table, so that different values apply to different employees.

For example, a graduated tax varies depending on the employee's earnings balance. The calculation value definition for this tax might contain two rows where you define the tax rate for:

  • Earnings under $50,000

  • Earnings above $50,000

Calculation Value Definitions Provided

Each localization provides a set of predefined calculation value definitions used to calculate statutory and involuntary deductions. You can't edit the predefined calculation value definitions.

In addition, when you create the following element types, the element template creates calculation value definitions based on your selections:

  • Pensions

  • Involuntary deductions

  • Absences

  • Time cards

Create or Edit Calculation Value Definitions

The element template creates calculation value definitions when you create elements with a certain category such as benefits, absences, and time card elements.

You can also create or edit calculation value definitions using the Calculation Value Definitions task in the Payroll section. For example, you can create value definitions to capture additional attributes that are required for your company's absence or time calculations.

You can also create value definitions to calculate a rate derived from a rate definition or values defined by criteria.

Value Definition Groups

When you create a calculation value definition, either select an existing group or create a new one. The group categorizes related calculation value definitions. The predefined set of standard groups is available to all countries or territories.

Examples of predefined value definition groups include Time and Absences. You must select these when creating value definitions for elements with the corresponding element category.

Calculation Factors

Some elements, such as statutory deductions, require a large number of calculation value definitions. They use calculation factors to determine when and how to apply each calculation value definition, based on a reference value.

For example, a calculation factor may direct the payroll process to:

  • Use a calculation value definition only if the person lives in Region B.

  • Annualize the calculated result to produce the final amount

Use the Payroll Calculation Information task to view and manage calculation factors.