How Do I Sign In To Lightning Payroll Using Xero, Google Or Another Social Account?

Social sign-in (SSO) lets you log in to the Lightning Payroll online (web/mobile) app using your existing Google, Microsoft, or Xero account instead of a separate email and password. This option is available for admin payroll users only and applies to the online app ÔÇö the desktop app uses an email and password login.

Signing In With a Social Account

1. Go to app.lightningpayroll.com.au/auth/login.
2. On the Choose Your Login Type screen, select Admin Payroll User.
3. Below the standard email and password fields you will see buttons labelled Sign in with Google, Sign in with Microsoft, and Sign in with Xero. Click the button for the provider you want to use.
4. You will be redirected to your chosen provider's login page. Authenticate with that provider as normal.
5. After a successful provider login, you are returned to Lightning Payroll. If two-factor verification is required, a login code is emailed to your registered address ÔÇö enter it on the verification screen and click Submit.
6. Once verified, you are signed in and taken to the company selection screen.

Notes on Each Provider

• Google and Microsoft ÔÇö available on all Lightning Payroll online logins.
• Xero ÔÇö available when logging in directly through Lightning Payroll. If you access the app through a reseller or partner portal, the Xero button may not appear.

Troubleshooting

• If the social login buttons do not appear, confirm you selected Admin Payroll User on the login type screen. The buttons are not shown for Payroll User (Non-Admin) or Employee Portal User logins.
• If you see "Failed to retrieve ID token from social login provider" or "Failed to retrieve tokens from social login provider", the provider did not complete the authorisation. Try again, ensuring you approve the requested permissions at the provider's login page.
• If the login code email does not arrive within a few minutes, check your spam folder. The code is sent to the email address registered with your Lightning Payroll account, not necessarily the address used with your social provider.
• If you have previously set a Lightning Payroll password and want to switch to social sign-in, both methods will continue to work ÔÇö there is no need to remove your password.

For help resetting or changing a standard Lightning Payroll password, see How Do I Change My Application Password?