Payroll systems use various controls to ensure the accuracy of data entry.

A " system edit " (Option D) is an automated check within the software that validates data against pre-defined parameters or logic. For example, if a company defines a maximum 401(k) percentage, a system edit will trigger a warning or error if a user attempts to enter a higher amount. This provides immediate feedback and prevents clerical errors during the data entry phase. Other controls serve different purposes: an " audit trail " (Option A) tracks who made changes to a record; " batch totals " (Option B) ensure the total dollar amount entered matches a pre-calculated sum ; and a " peer review " (Option C) is a manual secondary check by another staff member. System edits are the most efficient method for real-time validation against company-specific business rules.