Ghana

Ghana is a West African country that shares land borders with the Ivory Coast to the west, Burkina Faso to the north, and Togo to the east, while its southern shores meet the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Guinea.

General Information

• Full Name: Republic of Ghana
• Population: 33.47 million (World Bank 2022)
• Capital: Accra
• Major Languages: English, African languages including Akan, Ewe
• Major Religions: Christianity, indigenous beliefs, Islam
• Monetary Unit: Ghana cedi (GH₵) (GHS)
• Main Exports: Gold, crude petroleum, cocoa, manganese ore and palm oil
• GNI per Capita: US $2,380 (World Bank 2022)
• Internet Domain: .gh
• International Dialling Code: +233

How Do I Say in Akan?

• How are you?: Wo ho te sen?
• Good morning: Maa chi
• Good evening: Maa jo
• Do you speak English?: Ani owieo Blofo lo?
• Good bye: Nante yie
• Thank you: Me daa si

Dates

Dates are usually written in the day, month and year sequence. For example, 1 July 2024 or 1/7/24.

Numbers are written with a comma to denote thousands and a period to denote fractions. For example, the total area of the country is 238,535 km2 (two hundred thirty eight thousands five hundred and thirty five km2)

Ghana, renowned for its political stability, vibrant culture, and economic diversity, is increasingly recognised as a prime destination for international business in West Africa. With its strategic location, Ghana serves as a gateway for access to the West African market, boasting a stable political environment, a growing economy, and a commitment to democratic principles. Here's why doing business in Ghana offers a unique and promising opportunity for global investors.

Located on the Gulf of Guinea, Ghana benefits from access to significant shipping routes and a gateway to the ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) region, a market of over 300 million people. This strategic position is complemented by the Port of Tema and the Port of Takoradi, which are pivotal for international trade and logistics operations in the region.

Ghana's economy is characterised by its diversity, with significant contributions from agriculture, mining, oil and gas, and services sectors. The country has experienced consistent economic growth over the past two decades, driven by sound macroeconomic policies, political stability, and reforms aimed at improving the business environment. Ghana's commitment to sustainable development and investment in infrastructure further enhances its attractiveness as a business destination.

With a population of over 30 million, Ghana boasts a dynamic and expanding consumer market. The country's middle class is growing, driving demand for a wide range of products and services. Ghana's commitment to education and skills development has resulted in a relatively well-educated workforce, offering businesses access to local talent.

Ghana stands out as a beacon of stability and opportunity in West Africa, offering a favourable business environment, strategic geographic location, and a wealth of opportunities across various sectors. For businesses looking to establish or expand their footprint in Africa, Ghana represents a compelling destination with the potential for significant returns on investment. By leveraging Ghana's strategic advantages and navigating its challenges with informed strategies, businesses can unlock the vast potential of this dynamic market.

Ghana's reputation as "the gateway to West Africa" is not just a testament to its geographical location but also to the myriad of investment opportunities it presents. Known for its political stability, democratic governance, and vibrant economy, Ghana is increasingly becoming a magnet for international businesses and investors. 

Ghana stands as a beacon of stability in a region that has seen its share of political upheavals. Its commitment to democratic principles, rule of law, and peaceful transitions of power provides a reassuring environment for investors. This stability is a critical factor for businesses considering long-term investments in West Africa.

Ghana's economy is one of the most dynamic in Africa, characterized by a diverse mix of agriculture, manufacturing, services, and natural resources. The country is rich in resources, including gold, cocoa, oil, and gas, offering significant opportunities for exploration, extraction, and export. Moreover, Ghana's agricultural sector provides vast potential for agribusiness, from production to processing and export.

The Ghanaian government actively encourages foreign investment, providing a range of incentives through the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC). These include tax breaks, customs duty exemptions, and investment guarantees. The legal and regulatory framework in Ghana is designed to protect investments and simplify business operations, making it easier for foreign companies to establish and grow their businesses.

Ghana is committed to sustainable economic development, with significant investments in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and infrastructure. This focus on sustainability aligns with global trends and offers opportunities for businesses in green energy, eco-friendly products, and sustainable practices.

Ghana has made considerable investments in education and skills development, resulting in a relatively well-educated workforce. The availability of local talent, especially in sectors such as IT, finance, and engineering, is a significant asset for companies operating in Ghana.

Investing in Ghana offers businesses a unique combination of stability, market potential, and a supportive investment climate. The country's strategic location, with its diverse economy and commitment to sustainable development, makes it an attractive destination for investors looking to enter or expand within the African market. 

Ghana has increasingly become an attractive destination for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Africa, thanks to its stable political environment, growing economy, and strategic position as the gateway to the West African market. The government of Ghana, through various reforms and initiatives, has been keen on creating an enabling environment that fosters foreign investment, recognising its critical role in achieving economic growth and sustainable development. Here’s a closer look at FDI in Ghana, highlighting key sectors, incentives, and the overall investment climate.

Key Sectors for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Ghana

• Agriculture: Ghana's agricultural sector offers vast opportunities for investment, particularly in agro-processing and export-oriented agriculture, leveraging the country's rich natural resources.
• Mining and Natural Resources: Ghana is Africa's largest gold producer and has significant deposits of bauxite, manganese, and oil, attracting substantial investments in extraction and processing.
• Energy: The government's focus on diversifying its energy sources has opened up opportunities in renewable energy, oil, and gas exploration, and power generation projects.
• Manufacturing: With the aim of becoming an industrialized economy, Ghana encourages investments in manufacturing, particularly in areas that leverage the country's agricultural output and natural resources.
• ICT and Services: The ICT sector in Ghana is burgeoning, driven by a young and tech-savvy population. There are opportunities in fintech, software development, and telecommunications services.

The Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) provides a range of incentives to encourage FDI, including competitive corporate tax rates, tax holidays for specific sectors, customs exemptions for importation of plant, machinery, and equipment, and exemptions from payment of import duties on raw materials. Additionally, there are investment guarantees, including protection against expropriation, guarantee of transfer of profits and dividends, and access to dispute resolution mechanisms.

Ghana's commitment to creating a conducive environment for FDI is evident in its continuous reforms, sector-specific incentives, and efforts to maintain political stability and economic growth. For businesses looking to invest in Africa, Ghana represents a strategic and viable destination with opportunities across diverse sectors. By leveraging Ghana's strengths and addressing its challenges through strategic planning and local engagement, foreign investors can tap into the significant growth potential that Ghana offers.

It is not mandatory to make payments to employees or the authorities from an in-country bank account in Ghana

Generally, banks are open to the public from 8.30AM to 4.00PM Monday to Friday. Some banks are open on a Saturday from 8:00AM to 1:00PM.

This information is currently being updated for 2024.

A company is not required to have a legal entity established in Ghana in order to process payroll.

However, should you want to establish a legal entity in the country, the following steps must be taken:

• The availability of the company name should be checked and the appropriate documents should be submitted to obtain an incorporation certificate. Form A should be completed - this document requires the name of the company, nature of the business, names of subscribers and shareholders, their addresses, occupation, directorships in any other company, full names of directors, full name and address of the company secretary and auditors, the number of shares and the stated capital. After the forms are filed, necessary fees paid and certificate issued by the Registrar-General Department, the Ghana Revenue Authority will issue a tax identification number for both the company and the employees of the company.
• The company must obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN) from the Registrar- General Department or Ghana Revenue Authority before proceeding to company registration.
• A Commissioner of Oaths authenticates the forms required for the certificate to commence business. (1 day); Form 4 must be completed to issue the certificate.
• Obtain the certificate to commence business from the Registrar-General’s Department. (2 days)
• The following documents must be presented to deposit paid-in capital in a bank account: copy of company regulations, certificate of incorporation, certificate to commence business, and signatures of the authorized company representatives. (1 day)
• A business license should be obtained from the Metropolitan Authority. (7 days)
• The Metropolitan Authority shall inspect the work premises. (1 day)
• The company must apply for social security (1 day). To apply for social security, the company must attach a list of employees, their respective salaries and social security numbers, the company’s certificate of incorporation and certificate to commence business, company regulations, Tax Identification Number, Profile of Directors or Local Managers, copies of Directors or Local Manager valid ID.
• Obtain an environmental certificate the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). (25 days)
• To apply for social security, the company must attach the list of employees, their respective salary, social security number, the company certificate of incorporation and certificate to commence business.

To process companies’ payroll, the firm will need formal registration of business at Registrar-General’s department and thereafter at the Ghana Revenue Authority.

The documents required for registration with the tax authority are:

• Certificate of Incorporation
• Certificate to commence business
• Company’s Regulation

A unique computer generated Tax Identification Number (TIN) is given to tax payers for all official transactions.

To legally work in Ghana in 2024, expatriates need both a residence permit and a work permit. These permits ensure that foreign nationals are authorised to live and work in the country. 

Types of Permits and Visas

Work Permit

A work permit is necessary for any foreign national who wishes to work in Ghana. This permit is issued by the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) and allows the individual to work legally within the country.

Work Permit Application Process

To apply for a work permit, the following steps must be followed and documents provided:

1. Complete the Application Form: The application form must be accurately filled out and signed.
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV): Submit a detailed CV outlining the applicant’s professional and educational background.
3. Educational and Professional Certificates: Provide copies of relevant certificates to verify qualifications.
4. Work Contract: Include a signed employment contract with the Ghanaian employer.
5. Police Report: Obtain a police report from the country of residence, confirming that the applicant has no criminal record.
6. Medical Report: Submit a recent medical examination report to ensure the applicant is fit for work.
7. Passport Copies: Provide copies of relevant passport pages, including personal details and any previous visas or stamps.

The employer typically handles the work permit application process. The usual processing time for a work permit is approximately four weeks.

Residence Permit

A residence permit is required for expatriates to reside legally in Ghana while they work. This permit is also issued by the GIS and is granted under the immigration quota system, which specifies the number of foreign nationals a company or individual can employ.

Residence Permit Application Process

After the work permit is approved, the next step is to apply for a residence permit. This permit allows the expatriate to reside in Ghana legally and requires the following documents:

1. Approved Work Permit: Include a copy of the approved work permit.
2. Employment Contract: Provide evidence of employment with the Ghanaian company.
3. Proof of Accommodation: Detail where the expatriate will be staying in Ghana.
4. Medical Report: Submit a health certificate verifying the expatriate’s fitness for work.
5. Passport Copies: Provide relevant pages of the passport, including personal details and previous visas.

Residence permits are granted under the immigration quota system, which specifies the number of foreign nationals a company is allowed to employ. A foreign national included in a company’s quota automatically qualifies for a residence permit but must still apply for the permit to be stamped into their passport.

Business Visa

A business visa is issued to foreign nationals who intend to engage in business activities in Ghana, such as attending meetings, conferences, or conducting business negotiations. This visa does not allow for long-term work and must be obtained before applying for a work permit.

• Completed visa application form.
• Passport with at least six months validity.
• Two passport-sized photographs.
• Letter of invitation from a business entity in Ghana.
• Proof of travel arrangements.
• Visa fee payment receipt.

Temporary Work Visa

A temporary work visa is issued to foreign nationals who intend to work in Ghana for a short period. This visa is suitable for project-based work or short-term contracts.

• Completed visa application form.
• Passport with at least six months validity.
• Two passport-sized photographs.
• Work contract or letter from the Ghanaian employer.
• Police report.
• Medical report.
• Proof of travel arrangements.
• Visa fee payment receipt.

Important Considerations

• Quota System: Employers must verify that their immigration quota permits the employment of the foreign national in the specified role. This system limits the number of foreign employees a company can hire for specific positions.
• Application Assistance: Employers should assist their expatriate employees in gathering the required documents and navigating the application process to ensure compliance and smooth processing.
• Renewals: Both work permits and residence permits are typically valid for one to two years. It is important to monitor the expiration dates and renew the permits before they expire to avoid legal issues.

The tax year in Ghana runs from 1 January to 31 December.

Income Tax in Ghana

Residents are subject to tax on chargeable income accruing in, derived from, brought into, or received in Ghana. Non-residents are subject to tax only on chargeable income accruing in or derived from Ghana.

Individuals are considered residents in Ghana if they:

• Have been in Ghana for at least 183 days in a 12-month period that begins or ends during the year of assessment.
• Are employees or officials of the government of Ghana posted abroad during the year of assessment.
• Are citizens with a permanent home in Ghana who are temporarily absent from Ghana for no longer than 365 successive days.

Non-resident individuals pay taxes at a flat rate of 25%. Employees in Ghana pay income tax using the Pay As You Earn (PAYE) system. PAYE contributions are withholdings from the salaries of employees to satisfy their income tax responsibilities. PAYE is computed using the personal income tax rates.

In 2024, Ghana implemented significant changes to its personal income tax, affecting both the tax bands and rates. The amendment of the Income Tax Act, 2015 (Act 896), under the Income Tax Amendment (No. 2) Act 2023, Act 1111, revised these rates to align with the increase in the minimum wage. The new income tax rates, effective from January 1, 2024, are as follows:

The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) is a statutory public trust responsible for administering Ghana’s National Pension Scheme. The Pension Scheme managed by SSNIT has over one million active members and more than 100,000 pensioners who receive their monthly pensions from SSNIT. This is regulated by the National Pension Act 2008 and administered by SSNIT.

Employers are required to ensure that their employees are registered with SSNIT and that contributions are paid on their behalf. Employees can choose to make additional contributions, and there is also voluntary coverage available for self-employed individuals.

Mandatory Contributions

Social security contributions in Ghana are mandatory, with exemptions for:

• Officers and men of the Armed Forces and persons exempted by law
• Justices of the Superior Court as exempted under the constitution
• Diplomatic agents

Payments to SSNIT must be made within 14 days from the beginning of the following month. Employers who fail to register their company and/or employees must pay all contributions that should have been deducted, plus a penalty of 3% per month from the day they qualified to register.

Pension Scheme Tiers and Contribution Rates

Statutory contributions towards retirement are divided into three tiers to provide a comprehensive retirement benefits system:

Employers in Ghana are responsible for withholding and remitting various taxes on behalf of their employees. The key tax reporting requirements include:

• Monthly PAYE Returns: Employers must file monthly Pay As You Earn (PAYE) tax returns for their employees. Tax withheld must be filed and payment made by the 15th of the month following the month in which the tax is withheld.
• Annual Tax Returns: Employers are required to file an annual tax return by April 30th of the following year, detailing the employee’s income, tax deductions, exempt income, reliefs, and chargeable income.
• Tax Identification Number (TIN): All employees must have a Tax Identification Number (TIN). Employers are responsible for ensuring that their employees obtain a TIN if they do not already have one.
• Penalties for Non-Compliance: The penalties for failing to pay tax on due dates are:
  • Up to three months: 10% of the unpaid tax
  • Exceeding three months: 30% of the unpaid amount

Social Security Reporting

Employers must comply with social security reporting requirements as mandated by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT). The key requirements include:

• Employee Registration: Employers must ensure that all employees are registered with SSNIT and that contributions are paid on their behalf. New employees should be registered with SSNIT within one month of employment.
• Monthly Contributions: Payments to SSNIT must be made within 14 days from the beginning of the following month. Employers must remit 13% of the employee's salary, and employees contribute 5.5% of their salary.
• Contribution Reporting: Employers must submit monthly contribution reports to SSNIT, detailing the contributions made for each employee.
• Penalties for Non-Compliance: Employers who fail to register their company and/or employees or fail to make timely contributions will be required to pay all outstanding contributions along with a penalty of 3% per month from the day they qualified to register.

In Ghana the deadline for a new employee to be registered with the authorities is their start date.

Upon employment, new hires are required to submit the following to their current employer:

• Social Security (SSNIT No.)
• Taxpayer Identification No. (TIN)

To secure these numbers, new employees need to register with SSNIT and GRA prior to their employment. This is to ensure that the employer can process the respective statutory contribution of the employees.

Registration with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to secure TIN will follow a different process. The employee has to fill out the Application for Registration (BIR Form 1902) and attach a copy of the birth certificate. The employer will submit the form to the Revenue District Office (RDO) where the company is registered.

There is no specific time-scale for paying leavers their final salary payment in Ghana. The local authorities must be notified of the leaver.

It is not mandatory that payroll payments be made from an in-country bank account in Ghana

Payroll Reporting in Ghana

Employers are required to maintain accurate payroll records and report payroll information in compliance with Ghanaian labor laws. The key payroll reporting requirements include:

• Payroll Records: Employers must keep detailed payroll records, including employee names, positions, salaries, allowances, deductions, and net pay. These records must be kept for at least six years.
• Payslips: Employers must provide employees with payslips that detail their earnings, deductions (including tax and social security contributions), and net pay for each pay period.
• Annual Payroll Reporting: At the end of each year, employers must prepare and file an annual payroll report summarizing the total wages paid and deductions made for each employee.
• Statutory Leave and Benefits Reporting: Employers must report on statutory leave (such as annual leave, sick leave, and maternity leave) and any benefits provided to employees.

Summary of Contribution Rates and Deadlines

Ghanaian Payslip Example

This information is currently being updated for 2024.

The national daily minimum wage in Ghana for the year 2024 has been set at GHS 18.15.

This new rate represents an increase from the previous minimum wage of GHS 14.88 and became effective from January 1st, 2024.

This change in the minimum wage was implemented by the National Tripartite Committee in accordance with Section 113 (1) (a) of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651)​

Holiday Accrual and Calculations in Ghana

In Ghana, every employee is entitled to a minimum of 15 days of paid leave each year. Public holidays cannot be deducted from this leave entitlement. Depending on an individual's position and length of service within the company, the actual number of annual leave days can range from 21 to 36 days. During paid leave, employees are entitled to receive their full regular pay, and it is the employer's responsibility to ensure this payment. Crucially, employers must provide the statutory minimum leave days and cannot reduce this entitlement by including public holidays. Employees have the right to take their leave consecutively unless mutually agreed otherwise with the employer.

Maternity Leave in Ghana

A female worker in Ghana is entitled to at least 12 weeks of maternity leave upon presenting a medical certificate from a medical practitioner or midwife indicating the expected date of her confinement. This period is in addition to any annual leave entitlement post-confinement. During maternity leave, the employee is entitled to receive her full regular pay and any other benefits to which she is otherwise entitled. The employer is responsible for paying the employee during this period. Maternity leave may be extended for at least an additional two weeks if the confinement is abnormal or if multiple births occur in the same confinement. Importantly, employers are prohibited from terminating the employment of a female employee on maternity leave. After maternity leave, the employee must be allowed to return to her original position or an equivalent position with the same pay and benefits.

Paternity Leave in Ghana

As of 2024, there is no statutory provision for paternity leave in Ghana. However, some companies may choose to offer paternity leave as part of their internal policies. The specifics of paternity leave, including pay rates and duration, are at the discretion of the employer and should be clearly defined within the company's policies. While there are no legal requirements for paternity leave, employers who offer it must ensure it is administered fairly and consistently.

Sick Leave in Ghana

If an employee falls ill during their annual leave, the period of illness certified by a medical practitioner is not deducted from the annual leave. Generally, employees are entitled to receive their full pay during periods of certified sickness. Employers are responsible for paying employees during these periods, ensuring that the illness period is not deducted from their annual leave. Employers must honor certified sickness periods and ensure they do not reduce the employee's annual leave entitlement. Additionally, employers must keep accurate records of sick leave and ensure employees are paid appropriately during these periods.

National Service in Ghana

Ghanaian students who graduate from accredited institutions are required to undertake one year of national service. The National Service Secretariat (NSS), a part of the Ghana Government, formulates the policies and structures for national service. Employers who hire national service personnel must ensure they adhere to the policies set by the NSS. Participation in national service is mandatory for all graduates, and failure to comply can affect future employment opportunities.

The working week in Ghana is Monday to Friday.

The working day for commercial offices is usually 8:00AM to 5:00PM.

Lunch breaks are usually one hour.

Some offices and shops in Ghana will be open from 8.00AM to 1.00PM on Saturdays.

Government offices in Ghana will not be operational before 9.00AM.

There are multiple statutory holiday schedules within Ghana. Below are the statutory national holidays in Ghana for 2024.

*Please note that the dates for Eid ul-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are tentative and depend on the sighting of the moon.

Employee Benefits and Reliefs in Ghana

Employee benefits and reliefs in Ghana include various allowances and tax exemptions designed to support employees and reduce their taxable income. It is important for expenses to be documented properly. Expenses should be paid on expense forms, and supporting documents should have the company’s name attached to them to avoid being taxable.

Expenses should be paid on expenses forms and supporting documents should have the company’s name attached to it to avoid it being taxable.

Common Employee Benefits in Ghana

• Housing Allowance: Employers may provide housing allowances to employees, which are often exempt from tax if properly documented.
• Transportation Allowance: Allowances for transportation can also be provided and can be tax-exempt under certain conditions.
• Medical and Dental Benefits: Contributions to medical and dental plans are typically non-taxable benefits.
• Meal Allowance: Meal allowances provided by the employer can be non-taxable if they meet specific criteria set by the tax authorities.
• Education Benefits: Employers may provide education benefits for employees' children, which can be tax-exempt if they comply with the regulations.
• Relocation Allowance: Expenses covered by employers for relocating an employee can be exempt from tax.

Tax Reliefs in Ghana

Ghana offers several tax reliefs designed to reduce the taxable income of individuals, providing financial relief in various areas of life. These reliefs are crucial for taxpayers to maximize their take-home pay and manage living expenses more effectively.

Personal Reliefs

Individuals in Ghana can claim personal reliefs for various expenses. Marriage/Responsibility Relief is available for married individuals or those responsible for dependents, providing financial support for their family obligations. Child Education Relief allows taxpayers to claim relief for the education expenses of up to three children enrolled in recognised institutions. For senior citizens, Old Age Relief is available for those who are 60 years or older, reducing their taxable income in recognition of their age-related expenses. Individuals with disabilities can benefit from Disability Relief, which helps offset the additional costs they may incur due to their disabilities. Additionally, Life Insurance Relief is offered for premiums paid on life insurance policies, encouraging individuals to secure their future and that of their dependents.

Dependent Spouse Relief

Taxpayers who support a spouse without income can claim Dependent Spouse Relief. This relief recognises the financial responsibility borne by the working spouse and reduces their taxable income accordingly.

Professional Training and Development

Costs associated with professional training and development can be claimed as tax relief if they are directly related to the employee’s role. This encourages continuous professional development and helps employees stay competitive in their fields.

Retirement Contributions

Contributions made by employees to approved retirement schemes are usually tax-deductible. This relief encourages saving for retirement and ensures that employees are better prepared for their post-working years.

Documentation Requirements

To ensure that benefits and reliefs are non-taxable and properly accounted for, employees must:

• Use expense forms for claiming benefits.
• Attach supporting documents with the company’s name to the expense claims.
• Maintain accurate records and receipts for all claimed expenses and benefits.

Employers must ensure compliance with the tax laws and regulations governing employee benefits and reliefs. Proper documentation and adherence to the guidelines set by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) are essential to avoid any tax liabilities or penalties.

In 2024, Ghana implemented significant changes to its personal income tax, affecting both the tax bands and rates. The amendment of the Income Tax Act, 2015 (Act 896), under the Income Tax Amendment (No 2) Act 2023, Act 1111, revised these rates to align with the increase in the minimum wage. The new income tax rates, effective from January 1, 2024, are as follows:

• The first GH¢ 5,880 of chargeable income is tax-free.
• The next GH¢ 1,320 is taxed at 5%.
• The next GH¢ 1,560 is taxed at 10%.
• The next GH¢ 38,000 is taxed at 17.5%.
• The next GH¢ 192,000 is taxed at 25%.
• The next GH¢ 366,240 is taxed at 30%.
• Income exceeding GH¢600,000 is taxed at 35%.

Additionally, the upper limits of quantifiable motor vehicle benefits in the employment tax computation have been increased. There are also changes in the tax rate for gains from the realization of investment assets and gifts received by individuals, with a 25% tax rate applicable if the individual elects to tax such income separately.

There is an exemption on withdrawals from retirement funds related to COVID-19 or current economic hardships.

These changes reflect Ghana's efforts to adjust its tax system in response to economic conditions and to ensure a fair and progressive taxation system.

Please note that this document gives general guidance only and should not be regarded as an authoritative or complete statement of the law, regulations or tax position in any country. You should always seek specific advice for each specific situation. This document should not be relied upon as professional advice and activpayroll accepts no liability for reliance on its contents.