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Set up Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) on Payroll

Updated

Available for the following Payroll plans: Standard, Premium, Core Payroll, Unlimited+Payroll
Available for the following user access levels: Admin 

When using a username and password to log into your account, you are only using single-factor authentication. This process is susceptible to security threats because it represents a single piece of information a malicious person requires. Two-Factor Authentication provides an additional verification level when logging into your account, making sure that you are the only person who can access your information.

The Payroll Classic platform allows you to enable two-factor authentication for your account, which involves verifying your mobile phone number. If you would prefer not to use your mobile phone number, then you have the option available to enable and use an authentication app such as Google Authenticator.

Email 2FA No Longer Available

As of June 2025, email is no longer available as a two-factor authentication method for Employment Hero and KeyPay branded payroll platforms. As of October 2025, this change also applies to Employment Innovations branded platforms (EH Payroll 3, Employment Innovations, and related client brands such as Pepper Money).

You must use an authentication app (such as Google Authenticator) or a mobile phone number for two-factor authentication. We strongly recommend setting up both methods to ensure you don't lose access to your account.

Note: Partner-branded payroll platforms will be updated in early 2026.

Getting started

Set up Two-Factor Authentication: Mobile phone number
  1. Click the Account menu.
  2. Click the My Account submenu.
    2FA_1.jpg 
  3. Click Security.
  4. Under Two-Factor Authentication, click the Add Phone Number button.
  5. Enter your phone number and click the Send Confirmation Code button.
  6. Enter your confirmation code in and click the Confirm button.
Set up Two-Factor Authentication: Google Authenticator
  1. Click the Account menu.
  2. Click the My Account submenu.
    2FA_1.jpg 
  3. Click Security.
  4. Under Two-Factor Authentication, click the Configure Google Authenticator button.
  5. Scan the QR code using your Google Authenticator app.
  6. Enter your six-digit code that Google Authenticator has generated.
  7. Click the Enable button.

Editing data

Change provided mobile phone number
  1. Click the Account menu.
  2. Click the My Account submenu.
    2FA_1.jpg 
  3. Click Security.
  4. Under Two-Factor Authentication, click the Change Mobile Phone Number button.
  5. Enter your phone number and click the Send Confirmation Code button.
  6. Enter your confirmation code in and click the Confirm button.

Data management

Enable Two-Factor Authentication
  1. Click the Account menu.
  2. Click the My Account submenu.
    2FA_1.jpg 
  3. Click Security.
  4. Under Two-Factor Authentication, click the Enable button.
  5. Click the Ok button.
Use your recovery code

After enabling 2FA on web, you will get a one-time use Recovery Code, which you can download, print, or copy. In the event that you are unable to retrieve your 2FA code via authentication app or mobile SMS, you can use your Recovery Code. Here is how you can use it:

  1. On the payroll login page, enter your email and password.
  2. Click the Log In button.
  3. Input your Recovery Code in the Enter verification code textbox.
  4. Click the Verify button.
  5. A new Recovery Code will appear, which you can download, print, or copy, and use again in the future if you cannot get your 2FA code via authentication app or mobile SMS.
Account Recovery: If you can't verify 2FA

If you are unable to verify your 2FA and don't have access to your recovery code, you can submit an account recovery request:

  1. On the login page where you're asked to verify your 2FA code, look for the Account Recovery option.
  2. Follow the prompts to submit a recovery request.
  3. You'll need to provide a photo ID and selfie for identity verification.
  4. Our Customer Care team will review your request and verify your identity.
  5. You'll receive an email notification once your request has been approved or declined.
  6. If approved, your 2FA will be reset and you can log in and set up your 2FA methods again.

Important: Ensure your date of birth and name are accurately recorded in your account, as this information is used during the account recovery process.

Removing data

Disable Google Authenticator
  1. Click the Account menu.
  2. Click the My Account submenu.
    2FA_1.jpg 
  3. Click Security.
  4. Under Two-Factor Authentication, click the Disable Google Authenticator button.
  5. Click the Ok button.
Disable Two-Factor Authentication
  1. Click the Account menu.
  2. Click the My Account submenu.
    2FA_1.jpg 
  3. Click Security.
  4. Under Two-Factor Authentication, click the Disable button.

Explore related content

  • Manage My Notifications This feature allows you to customise what email notifications and daily reminders you receive from the payroll platform.
  • Managing my account detailsThis feature allows you to setup and manage your payroll account password, email, and account details.

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