Payroll software automates employee payments, tax calculations, and compliance filings. This guide compares the best payroll solutions for 2025.
Payroll Software Quick Facts 2025
- Price range: $20 - $200+ per month base + per employee
- Key features: Direct deposit, tax filing, W-2s, time tracking
- Full-service: Software handles all tax payments and filings
- Compliance: Automatic updates for tax law changes
Top Payroll Software Compared
| Software | Base Price | Per Employee | Best For | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gusto | $40/mo | $6/mo | Small business | |
| ADP Run | Custom | Custom | Growing businesses | |
| Paychex | $39/mo | $5/mo | HR + payroll | |
| QuickBooks Payroll | $50/mo | $6/mo | QB users | |
| OnPay | $40/mo | $6/mo | Simplicity |
BEST OVERALL
Gusto
- Price: $40/month base + $6/employee
- Features: Full-service payroll, benefits, onboarding
- Tax filing: Automatic federal, state, local
- Benefits: Health, 401(k), HSA, commuter
- Pros: User-friendly, excellent support, modern
- Cons: No phone support on basic plan
ENTERPRISE CHOICE
ADP
- Price: Custom quotes
- Products: Run (small), Workforce Now (mid), Enterprise
- Features: Payroll, HR, benefits, time, talent
- Pros: Scalable, comprehensive, trusted brand
- Cons: Pricing not transparent, contracts
Key Payroll Features
- Automatic tax filing: Calculates and pays taxes for you
- Direct deposit: Pay employees electronically
- W-2 and 1099: Year-end tax forms
- Time tracking: Track hours, integrate with payroll
- Benefits admin: Health insurance, 401(k)
- Employee self-service: View pay stubs, update info
- Multi-state: Handle employees in different states
Payroll Pricing Comparison
| Software | 10 Employees | 25 Employees | 50 Employees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gusto | $100/mo | $190/mo | $340/mo |
| OnPay | $100/mo | $190/mo | $340/mo |
| QuickBooks | $110/mo | $200/mo | $350/mo |
| Paychex | $89/mo | $164/mo | $289/mo |
FAQ
What is full-service payroll?
Full-service payroll means the software calculates, files, and pays all payroll taxes on your behalf, including quarterly and annual filings.
How often should I run payroll?
Most common: biweekly (every 2 weeks). Options include weekly, semi-monthly (twice a month), or monthly. Consider employee preferences and cash flow.