This guide will help you navigate the best payroll software options for 2025, focusing on affordability, ease of use, and features.

What is Payroll Software?

Payroll software is a tool designed to automate and streamline the payroll process. It helps businesses calculate employee wages, deduct taxes and benefits, generate reports, and ensure compliance with federal and state regulations.

The benefits of payroll software include:

• Time Savings: Automating payroll reduces manual tasks.
• Accuracy: Minimizes errors in calculations and tax filings.
• Compliance: Ensures adherence to tax laws and labor regulations.
• Employee Satisfaction: Ensures timely and accurate payments.

For small and medium-sized businesses, payroll software is essential to save time and reduce administrative burdens.

What Makes Payroll Software Affordable?

Affordable payroll software provides essential features like automated payroll runs, tax compliance, and payment processing without unnecessary extras that increase costs. Key features of cost-effective payroll software include:

• Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees or complex pricing structures.
• Automation: Reduces manual intervention and errors.
• Self-Service Portals: Allows employees to access their pay stubs and tax forms easily.
• Scalability: Lets businesses add features as they grow.

Top 10 Payroll Software Solutions

Here are some of the best payroll software options that combine affordability with robust features:

Deel

Best for Global Payroll Compliance

Deel is a payroll software designed for businesses with a global workforce. Operating in over 150 countries, it simplifies payroll management by ensuring compliance with local laws and tax regulations. Deel’s in-house local experts handle payroll for employees and contractors, offering peace of mind to businesses expanding internationally.

Its standout features include automated payroll, multi-currency payments, and integrations with tools like QuickBooks, Xero, and BambooHR. Deel offers flat-rate pricing with a free plan for businesses with up to 200 employees, making it ideal for businesses seeking scalable, compliant payroll software.

Oyster HR

Best for Multi-Currency Payments

Oyster HR is a global employment platform that excels in managing payroll for international teams. With operations in over 180 countries and support for 140+ currencies, it is tailored for businesses hiring talent across borders.

Its automated payroll and compliance tools reduce administrative burdens, while its detailed payroll reports help manage finances effectively. Oyster HR also provides insights into local salaries and benefits, helping businesses create competitive compensation packages.

Pricing starts at $25 per employee per month, making it an excellent choice for global payroll needs.

RUN Powered by ADP

Best for Automatic Tax Filing

RUN by ADP simplifies payroll and tax management for small businesses with fewer than 50 employees. The software handles automatic payroll processing and tax filing at the federal, state, and local levels, reducing the risk of errors. Its mobile-friendly employee self-service portal allows employees to access their pay and tax documents anytime.

With additional features like time tracking and compliance support, RUN Powered by ADP is a robust option for businesses seeking accuracy and convenience.

Pricing is available upon request, with a 90-day free trial.

OnPay

Best for Mobile Access

OnPay is a user-friendly payroll software that offers comprehensive payroll and benefits management. Its highly functional mobile app makes it easy to manage payroll on the go, offering full access to all features. OnPay supports payroll in all 50 states, provides compliance tools, and even includes in-house insurance brokers for benefits selection.

Its simple pricing model starts at $40 per month, plus $6 per employee, making it an affordable choice for businesses needing a mobile-friendly solution.

Gusto

Best for Integrations

Gusto is a comprehensive payroll and HR software known for its vast integration capabilities. With over 180 integrations, Gusto works seamlessly with tools like QuickBooks, FreshBooks, and Xero, making it a great choice for businesses using multiple platforms. Its features include automated payroll, tax filing, benefits administration, and time tracking.

Pricing starts at $40 per month plus $6 per employee, offering value for businesses that need an all-in-one solution. Gusto also supports flexible payment schedules and ensures compliance with labor laws.

Square Payroll

Best for Retail and Restaurants

Square Payroll is a cloud-based payroll solution that integrates perfectly with Square’s point-of-sale (POS) system, making it ideal for businesses in retail and hospitality. The software offers features like tip tracking, automated tax filing, and instant payments for employees. Square Payroll also supports both employees and contractors, providing flexibility for diverse workforces.

Pricing starts at $6 per user per month, plus a $35 base fee. Its integration with Square POS makes it a standout option for businesses already using Square.

Zoho Payroll

Best for Automated Payroll Processing

Zoho Payroll is an affordable, automation-focused payroll solution tailored for small businesses. It streamlines payroll by automatically calculating wages for hourly and salaried employees, issuing digital pay stubs, and managing direct deposits. Zoho also provides tools for benefits administration and employee self-service portals.

Pricing starts at $19 per month plus $3 per employee. Its user-friendly dashboard and integration with other Zoho tools make it a practical choice for businesses seeking simplicity and efficiency.

Zenefits

Best for Detailed Reporting

Zenefits combines payroll and HR management into one platform, with a strong focus on analytics and reporting. It offers unlimited payroll runs, benefits administration, PTO tracking, and customizable reporting options. Zenefits is a powerful tool for businesses looking to streamline employee management alongside payroll.

Pricing starts at $10 per user per month, but payroll is available as an add-on. Its robust analytics features make Zenefits a great choice for businesses that rely on detailed insights for decision-making.

Remofirst

Best for Paying Global Contractors

Remofirst specializes in managing payroll for global contractors and employees through its Employer of Record (EOR) services. It simplifies the complexities of international payroll by handling compliance, local tax regulations, and multi-currency payments.

Starting at $25 per contractor per month, Remofirst is a cost-effective solution for businesses with international contractors. It also offers tools for managing contracts, tracking contractor availability, and ensuring compliance with local labor laws.

Roll by ADP

Best for Chat-Based Setup and Support

Roll by ADP takes a unique approach to payroll management with its chat-based interface. This conversational setup makes it easy for businesses to manage payroll, issue payments, and handle tax filings without extensive technical knowledge. Features include instant or next-day direct deposits, automated tax filing, and garnishment management.

Pricing starts at $39 per month plus $5 per employee. Its mobile-centric design and chat-based support make Roll by ADP ideal for small businesses looking for a simple, intuitive solution.

How to Choose the Right Payroll Software for Your Business

When selecting payroll software, consider the following:

• Budget: Look for software with transparent pricing that fits your financial constraints.
• Scalability: Ensure the software can grow with your business.
• Integration: If you use other tools like QuickBooks or Xero, choose software that integrates seamlessly.
• Compliance: Prioritize platforms that ensure tax and labor law compliance.

Conclusion

Payroll software is essential for streamlining operations, reducing errors, and ensuring compliance. Whether you’re managing a global workforce or running a small local business, the right payroll software can save you time and money.

From Deel’s global capabilities to Gusto’s extensive integrations and OnPay’s mobile-friendly features, there’s a payroll solution for every business need. Compare your options carefully, focusing on features, scalability, and cost, to find the perfect fit for your company.