What syncs with Xero

A reference for which data flows between Shiftly and Xero, in which direction, and when.

Once Xero is connected, Shiftly and Xero share data in a few specific ways. This reference explains what flows where, and when.

Who this is for

Owners and managers using the Shiftly web platform with Xero connected.

Data	Direction	When
Pay configuration (earnings rates, accounts)	Shiftly → Xero	Used when timesheets are exported; missing rates are created in Xero automatically.
Employees	Xero → Shiftly, then Shiftly → Xero	Pulled in when you connect; pushed back to Xero (created or updated) during onboarding and when timesheets are posted.
Leave types	Xero → Shiftly	Pulled in on connect, and whenever you choose Refresh leave catalogue on the connection.
Leave balances	Xero → Shiftly	Read from Xero per employee while a connection is active — Shiftly's own balances are hidden in that case.
Leave applications	Shiftly → Xero	Pushed when you approve a leave request; a cancelled request is removed from Xero. Sync status shows on the request, with a retry if it fails.
Timesheets & estimated pay	Shiftly → Xero	Exported when you post timesheets — approved timesheets only. For awards Shiftly doesn't interpret, only worked time is exported (no pay breakdown).

Shiftly produces estimates for Xero to finalise. Pay exported to Xero is calculated from approved timesheets for you to review and process in Xero — Shiftly doesn't run the pay run itself.
Direction matters. Employees and leave types/balances come from Xero; timesheets, pay, and leave applications go to Xero.
Leave balances follow the connection. While Xero manages leave, balances are shown from Xero across Shiftly — see Leave balances & catalog.

Authorise Shiftly to connect to your Xero organisation.

Have your accountant connect Xero for you.