--- title: "Best Online Payroll Software - 2026 Reviews & Pricing" description: "Find the best Online Payroll Software for your organization. Compare top Online Payroll Software systems with customer reviews, pricing, and free demos." source_url: "https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/online-payroll-comparison/" page_type: "subcategory" language: "en" --- [Home](https://www.softwareadvice.com/) / Online Payroll Software Software Advice offers objective insights based on verified user reviews and independent product and market research. When our advisors match you to a software provider, we may earn a referral fee. # Best Online Payroll Software of 2026 Updated October 27, 2026 ## Online Payroll FAQs Software Advice advisors had 31 conversations with buyers about Online Payroll software between January 2025 and July 2026. These are the questions that came up most. - How do I choose the right Online Payroll software for my business? Choosing the right online payroll tool means matching core needs like payroll management, tax handling, time tracking, and attendance, with special focus on integration between payroll and time tracking, based on advisor calls. Buyers frequently mention that automation, ease of use, and reliable customer support are important requirements, while a common consideration is weighing flat monthly pricing against per-user rates and setup fees. Friction often comes from manual data entry, poor integration, or limited connections with other business tools, so teams should confirm these areas fit their workflow before deciding. - What is the best Online Payroll software for a small to mid-size company? There is no single online payroll system that fits every small to mid-size company, but during advisor calls, buyers most often look for software that combines payroll management with time tracking and attendance tools. A good fit should handle salary processing, tax calculations, and record-keeping, while also making it easy to track work hours and paid time off. Buyers frequently mention challenges with systems that require manual payroll data entry or rely heavily on spreadsheets, so automation and integration between payroll and time tracking are a priority. Many also want a user-friendly experience to avoid inefficiency and frustration, and a common sticking point is unresponsive customer support when issues arise. Answer based on 27 advisor calls - What should businesses watch out for when choosing Online Payroll software? According to our advisors, buyers should carefully check integration between time tracking and payroll functions, as integration errors are a frequent pain point in real advisor conversations. Most buyers looking at online payroll software come from the construction industry and run small businesses, where manual data entry and spreadsheet reliance often slow down payroll tasks. A cumbersome user experience and limited connections with other tools are also issues that buyers mention. Cloud-based software is the main deployment type discussed in these calls, so buyers often weigh the pros and cons of cloud access versus any other options. Unresponsive customer support is another area buyers advise watching for before making a decision. Answer based on 29 advisor calls - What are common complaints about Online Payroll software? A common theme in these conversations is friction from integration errors between time tracking and payroll, which buyers frequently mention as a top issue. Teams also point to a cumbersome user experience, with some finding the tool inefficient or hard to use. Reliance on manual methods like spreadsheets is another pain point, often leading to slow payroll data entry and calculation. Limited integration with other tools and unresponsive customer support are additional complaints that come up in advisor calls. Answer based on 23 advisor calls - What is the difference between Online Payroll software and a full HRIS? The main difference between online payroll software and a full human resource information system (HRIS) is that online payroll tools focus on managing salary processes, taxes, and tracking employee work hours, while a full HRIS covers a wider range of human resources tasks. When speaking with our advisors, buyers describe online payroll systems as handling payroll, time tracking, clock in/out, and attendance, but note that these tools often lack features like onboarding, benefits management, applicant tracking, and performance management, which are standard in HRIS platforms. Many buyers mention that online payroll software may require manual data entry or additional spreadsheets for HR tasks outside of payroll, while HRIS options are chosen for their ability to centralize all employee data and processes in one place. Answer based on 29 advisor calls - How does Online Payroll software handle employee records, payroll, and compliance? Online Payroll software keeps employee records, manages salary and tax data, and handles payroll processing in one place, according to buyers our advisors talk to. Buyers frequently mention wanting to reduce manual data entry and calculation, which can be a pain point with older processes. Integration between time tracking and payroll is a common must-have, as many buyers report errors when these systems do not work together smoothly. Answer based on 28 advisor calls - How much does Online Payroll software cost? Most teams pay for online payroll tools using either a flat monthly fee or a per-user monthly rate, and buyers frequently tell our advisors that flat pricing usually falls between $35 and $100 a month, with a median of $50. Per-user models often land between $8 and $10 per employee per month, with the median at $10. Many buyers also mention one-time setup fees, which typically range from $800 to $2,000, with $2,000 being most common. Pricing concerns are a major topic in advisor calls, and teams often weigh the trade-off between upfront costs and ongoing monthly rates. Answer based on 27 advisor calls - What features should Online Payroll software include? The features buyers we've talked to ask for most in online payroll systems are payroll management, time tracking, and ways to record employee clock in and out times. Buyers frequently mention the need to handle salaries, taxes, and employee data, along with tracking paid time off (PTO) and ensuring accurate attendance records for payroll calculations. Answer based on 27 advisor calls - What is Online Payroll software and what does it do? Online Payroll software is a web-based tool that helps businesses calculate paychecks, process employee salaries, and handle payroll taxes. Advisor-call conversations show that buyers often use it to track work hours, manage time off, and keep payroll records organized in one place. Answer based on 27 advisor calls On this page 1. FrontRunners 2. Popular Comparisons 3. Buyers Guide 4. Frequently Asked Questions Filter products 82 results ### Compare Products Showing 1 - 25 of 82 products #### Company Size - Self-Employed - 2-10 - 11-50 - 51-200 - 201-500 - 501-1000 - 1000+ #### Pricing Options - $$$$$ - $$$$$ - $$$$$ - $$$$$ - $$$$$ ### Compare Products Sort by **Recommendations**: Sorts listings by the number of recommendations our advisors have made over the past 30 days. Our advisors assess buyers’ needs for free and only recommend products that meet buyers’ needs. Vendors pay Software Advice for these referrals. **Reviews**: Sorts listings by the number of user reviews we have published, greatest to least. **Average Rating**: Sorts listings by overall star rating based on user reviews, highest to lowest. **Alphabetically (A-Z)**: Sorts listings by product name from A to Z. ### [Rippling](/hr/rippling-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.9/5 - Reviews: 4,886 - Starting price: CA$8.00/month - Best for: Mid-size businesses - Free trial: Available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview Rippling is the AI workforce management platform that connects HR, IT, and Finance — giving Rippling AI everything it needs to help run your company. Because employee data, [Read more](/hr/rippling-profile/) ##### What users love - Simple and intuitive user experience - Unified payroll and HR management - Intuitive and clear navigation ##### To take in mind - Slow and inconsistent support response - Cumbersome time off management - Overly complex security measures #### Features ##### Best rated features - Content Management: 5/5 - Authentication: 5/5 - Sick Leave Tracking: 5/5 - Social Sign On: 5/5 [See all features](/hr/rippling-profile/#key-features) #### Pricing ##### Core - Price: CA$8.00/month - Custom Quote available ##### Pro - Price: CA$8.00/month - Custom Quote available [See full pricing details](/hr/rippling-profile/#pricing-and-plans) --- ### [Paycom](/hr/paycom-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.4/5 - Reviews: 1,400 - Best for: Small businesses - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview Paycom is a leading provider of human capital management software that helps organizations automate routine decisions and workflows. Through built-in decisioning logic and [Read more](/hr/paycom-profile/) ##### What users love - User-friendly and intuitive platform - Integrated payroll and HR management - Self-service and centralized data ##### To take in mind - Inconsistent and slow support experience - Clunky and unintuitive navigation - Complex and tedious setup processes #### Features ##### Best rated features - Chatbot: 5/5 - Multi-Country: 5/5 - Tax Filing: 5/5 - Electronic Signature: 5/5 ##### Worst rated features - Candidate Search: 1/5 - Third-Party Integrations: 3.6/5 - Background Screening: 4/5 [See all features](/hr/paycom-profile/#key-features) --- ### [UKG Ready](/product/419228-UKG-Ready/) - Overall rating: 4.2/5 - Reviews: 1,153 - Best for: Enterprise businesses - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview UKG Ready is a human capital management platform designed to centralize HR, payroll, benefits, talent management, time tracking, and scheduling. It is suitable for small to midsize [Read more](/product/419228-UKG-Ready/) ##### What users love - Centralized payroll and HR management - User-friendly and intuitive interface - Comprehensive workforce management suite ##### To take in mind - Limited and complex reporting tools - Cumbersome and manual process workflows - Slow and unresponsive customer service #### Features ##### Best rated features - Shift Scheduling: 5/5 - Employee Self Service: 5/5 - Electronic Signature: 5/5 - Online Scheduling: 5/5 [See all features](/product/419228-UKG-Ready/#key-features) --- ### [Paychex](/hr/paychex-flex-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.2/5 - Reviews: 1,820 - Best for: Popular - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview Paychex is a human capital management solution that helps small, midsize, and large businesses across a broad range of industries manage payroll, HR, benefits, and compliance. The [Read more](/hr/paychex-flex-profile/) ##### What users love - Centralized payroll management tools - User-friendly and intuitive interface - Easy access to pay details ##### To take in mind - Inconsistent and slow support response - Onboarding and profile management issues - Frequent tax filing errors #### Features ##### Best rated features - Third-Party Integration: 5/5 - Electronic Signature: 5/5 - Assessment Management: 5/5 - Activity Tracking: 5/5 [See all features](/hr/paychex-flex-profile/#key-features) --- ### [Paylocity](/hr/web-pay-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.3/5 - Reviews: 1,981 - Best for: Mid-size businesses - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview Paylocity is a cloud-based human capital management (HCM) platform serving small to large businesses across industries including retail, healthcare, restaurants, manufacturing, [Read more](/hr/web-pay-profile/) ##### What users love - Centralized payroll and HR tools - Intuitive navigation for all users - Customizable and modern interface ##### To take in mind - Slow and inconsistent support experience - Limited and complex reporting options - Cumbersome workflows and setup #### Features ##### Best rated features - Workflow Management: 5/5 - Corporate Card: 5/5 - Customizable Fields: 5/5 - Benchmarking: 5/5 [See all features](/hr/web-pay-profile/#key-features) --- ### [RUN Powered by ADP](/hr/adp-run-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.6/5 - Reviews: 1,579 - Best for: Small businesses - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview RUN Powered by ADP is a smart, simple payroll and HR solution designed to help small businesses pay people confidently and stay focused on growth. More than 900,000 small [Read more](/hr/adp-run-profile/) ##### What users love - Streamlined payroll and compliance - Responsive and knowledgeable assistance - Intuitive and user-friendly interface ##### To take in mind - Expensive with add-on fees - Limited and rigid reporting tools - Long waits and sales calls #### Features ##### Best rated features - Benchmarking: 5/5 - Accounting Integration: 5/5 - Leave Tracking: 5/5 - Mobile App: 5/5 ##### Worst rated features - Onboarding: 4/5 - Offboarding: 4/5 [See all features](/hr/adp-run-profile/#key-features) --- ### [Paycor](/hr/paycor-perform-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.3/5 - Reviews: 3,080 - Best for: Ease of use - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Available #### Overview Paycor is a cloud-based human capital management (HCM) platform that serves small, midsize, and large businesses across healthcare, manufacturing, retail, restaurants, professional [Read more](/hr/paycor-perform-profile/) ##### What users love - User-friendly and intuitive experience - Streamlined payroll management tools - Accessible employee self-service features ##### To take in mind - Slow and inconsistent support experience - Clunky and unintuitive navigation - Cumbersome and limited reporting tools #### Features ##### Best rated features - Audit Trail: 5/5 - Tax Calculation: 5/5 - Performance Review Management: 5/5 - Shift Swapping: 5/5 [See all features](/hr/paycor-perform-profile/#key-features) #### Pricing ##### Basic - Price: Custom - Pricing available upon request ##### Essential - Price: Custom - Pricing available upon request ##### Core - Price: Custom - Pricing available upon request [See full pricing details](/hr/paycor-perform-profile/#pricing-and-plans) --- ### [ADP Workforce Now](/hr/adp-workforce-now-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.4/5 - Reviews: 7,289 - Best for: Direct Deposit - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview ADP Workforce Now is an HR suite that combines all core payroll and HR management processes into a single database-driven platform. ADP Workforce Now includes payroll management, [Read more](/hr/adp-workforce-now-profile/) ##### What users love - Intuitive and user-friendly experience - Centralized payroll and HR management - Streamlined employee data access ##### To take in mind - Inconsistent and slow support response - Outdated and confusing navigation - Complex and rigid reporting tools #### Features ##### Best rated features - Data Security: 5/5 - Peer Appraisals: 4.9/5 - Direct Deposit: 4.8/5 - Background Screening: 4.8/5 ##### Worst rated features - Competency Management: 3.5/5 - Labor Forecasting: 3.7/5 - Customizable Templates: 3.9/5 [See all features](/hr/adp-workforce-now-profile/#key-features) --- ### [TriNet HR Plus](/hr/zenefits-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.2/5 - Reviews: 823 - Best for: Value for money - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview TriNet's HR Plus is outsourced HR services plus HR technology to help your business thrive. Our all-in-one HR platform helps you manage workforce data, time tracking, attendance, [Read more](/hr/zenefits-profile/) ##### What users love - User-friendly interface and navigation - Centralized employee data management - Automated and paperless onboarding ##### To take in mind - Inconsistent and slow customer service - Payroll integration and reliability issues - Rising costs and unclear fees #### Features ##### Best rated features - HSA/FSA Administration: 5/5 - FMLA Administration: 5/5 - Job Description Management: 5/5 - Goal Setting/Tracking: 5/5 ##### Worst rated features - Leave Tracking: 2.5/5 [See all features](/hr/zenefits-profile/#key-features) --- ### [Employment Hero](/hr/employment-hero-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.4/5 - Reviews: 239 - Starting price: $10.00/month - Best for: Features - Free trial: Available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview Employment Hero is a cloud-based human resource management (HRM) system for small and medium businesses on the up. The solution helps manage the entire employee lifecycle, with [Read more](/hr/employment-hero-profile/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Certification & Licensing: 5/5 - Social Recognition: 5/5 - Sick Leave Tracking: 5/5 - Manager-to-Employee Recognition: 5/5 ##### Worst rated features - Real-Time Notifications: 1/5 - Alerts/Notifications: 1/5 [See all features](/hr/employment-hero-profile/#key-features) #### Pricing ##### HR Essentials - Price: $10.00/month ##### HR Engage - Price: $14.00/month ##### HR Elite - Price: Custom - Pricing available upon request [See full pricing details](/hr/employment-hero-profile/#pricing-and-plans) --- ### [Payroll Relief](/hr/payroll-relief-profile/) - Overall rating: 3.5/5 - Reviews: 41 - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview Payroll Relief by IRIS is cloud payroll built for accounting firms — so your firm can run payroll as a profitable service line instead of referring it out and losing the client [Read more](/hr/payroll-relief-profile/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Wage Garnishment: 5/5 - 401(k) Tracking: 4.5/5 - Access Controls/Permissions: 4/5 - W-2 Preparation: 3.8/5 ##### Worst rated features - Employee Database: 1/5 - Third-Party Integrations: 1/5 - Employee Portal: 2/5 - Vacation/Leave Tracking: 2/5 [See all features](/hr/payroll-relief-profile/#key-features) --- ### [isolved](/hr/isolved-profile/) - Overall rating: 3.9/5 - Reviews: 658 - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview isolved is a human capital management platform designed to streamline HR, payroll, and benefits administration. It serves as a centralized system for workforce data, connecting [Read more](/hr/isolved-profile/) ##### What users love - User-friendly for all roles - Centralized and secure data access - Intuitive and simple navigation ##### To take in mind - Payroll errors and process frustrations - Slow and unresponsive support experience - Limited and complex reporting tools #### Features ##### Best rated features - Time & Expense Tracking: 5/5 - Leave Tracking: 5/5 - Provider Management: 5/5 - Multi-State: 5/5 [See all features](/hr/isolved-profile/#key-features) --- ### [ADP Workforce Now On the Go](/project-management/adp-workforce-now-on-the-go-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.5/5 - Reviews: 62 - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview ADP Workforce Now On the Go is an integrated mobile workforce management solution for businesses in Canada that delivers critical workforce insights and analytics, wherever [Read more](/project-management/adp-workforce-now-on-the-go-profile/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Reporting & Statistics: 5/5 - Compliance Management: 5/5 - Deduction Management: 5/5 - Tax Compliance: 5/5 [See all features](/project-management/adp-workforce-now-on-the-go-profile/#key-features) --- ### [Patriot Software](/product/3746-Patriot-Software/) - Overall rating: 4.8/5 - Reviews: 3,968 - Starting price: $17.00/month - Best for: For Small Businesses - Free trial: Available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview Patriot Software is a cloud-based payroll solution that supports multiple pay rates, enabling businesses to cater to various compensation structures within their organization. [Read more](/product/3746-Patriot-Software/) ##### What users love - Responsive and knowledgeable assistance - Streamlined payroll for small businesses - User-friendly and intuitive design ##### To take in mind - Limited flexibility in employee handling - Basic and confusing reporting options - Slow and restrictive direct deposit process #### Features ##### Best rated features - QuickBooks Integration: 5/5 - For Mobile: 5/5 - Auto Update: 5/5 - Dashboard: 4.9/5 ##### Worst rated features - Mobile Access: 1/5 - Attendance Management: 2/5 - Timesheet Management: 3.9/5 [See all features](/product/3746-Patriot-Software/#key-features) #### Pricing ##### Basic Payroll - Price: $17.00/month - Powerful online payroll software with everything you need to run payroll. The base price is $17 a ##### Full Service Payroll - Price: $37.00/month - Patriot's full service payroll handles federal, state and local payroll taxes on your behalf. The [See full pricing details](/product/3746-Patriot-Software/#pricing-and-plans) --- ### [UKG Pro](/hr/ukg-pro-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.3/5 - Reviews: 733 - Best for: Small businesses - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview UKG Pro Human Capital Management (HCM) software is a workforce management solution designed to align people strategy with business goals. It serves various industries such as [Read more](/hr/ukg-pro-profile/) ##### What users love - Comprehensive payroll management tools - Centralized employee data access - User-friendly and intuitive experience ##### To take in mind - Feature limitations and complexity - Cumbersome and confusing navigation - Unintuitive and outdated interface #### Features ##### Best rated features - Goal Management: 5/5 - Variable Workforce: 5/5 - API: 5/5 - Learning Management: 5/5 ##### Worst rated features - Recruitment Management: 2.9/5 - Wage Garnishment: 3/5 - Data Visualization: 3/5 [See all features](/hr/ukg-pro-profile/#key-features) --- ### [Viventium Software](/hr/viventium-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.7/5 - Reviews: 102 - Starting price: $1.00 - Best for: Value for money - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview Designed for home care agencies and skilled nursing facilities, Viventium Software is a cloud-based solution that helps organizations streamline payroll and human resource (HR) [Read more](/hr/viventium-profile/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Employee Onboarding: 5/5 - Employee Self Service: 5/5 - Document Management: 5/5 - Leave Tracking: 5/5 ##### Worst rated features - Wage Garnishment: 1/5 - API: 2/5 - Multi-State: 2/5 - Benefits Management: 3.8/5 [See all features](/hr/viventium-profile/#key-features) --- ### [NetSuite](/accounting/netsuite-financials-accounting-software-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.2/5 - Reviews: 2,082 - Best for: On the rise - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview NetSuite is an AI-powered cloud-based business management suite that incorporates ERP, financial management, CRM and eCommerce functionalities into a unified platform, helping [Read more](/accounting/netsuite-financials-accounting-software-profile/) ##### What users love - Deep system tailoring options - Comprehensive and scalable functionality - Centralized financial operations platform ##### To take in mind - Steep learning curve and complexity - Complex and rigid reporting tools - Slow and inconsistent support experience #### Features ##### Best rated features - Aging Tracking: 5/5 - "What If" Scenarios: 5/5 - Vendor Master Data Management: 5/5 - For B2B: 5/5 [See all features](/accounting/netsuite-financials-accounting-software-profile/#key-features) --- ### [OnPay](/hr/onpay-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.8/5 - Reviews: 470 - Starting price: $49.00/month - Best for: Ease of use - Free trial: Available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview OnPay is a cloud-based payroll solution that helps small businesses automate tax filing and payment workflows. Key features include employee self-onboarding, new hire reporting, [Read more](/hr/onpay-profile/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Electronic Signature: 5/5 - Time Tracking: 5/5 - Workflow Automation: 5/5 - Activity Dashboard: 5/5 [See all features](/hr/onpay-profile/#key-features) #### Pricing ##### Basic - Price: $49.00/month - The base fee starts at $49 + $6 per employee per month [See full pricing details](/hr/onpay-profile/#pricing-and-plans) --- ### [Square Payroll](/hr/square-payroll-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.7/5 - Reviews: 622 - Starting price: $6.00/month - Best for: Customer support - Free trial: Available - Free demo: Available #### Overview Square Payroll is a full-service payroll solution that helps small businesses pay employees through online payroll management and handle payroll tax. It can be integrated with a [Read more](/hr/square-payroll-profile/) ##### What users love - Streamlined payroll processing features - Intuitive and user-friendly design - Transparent and affordable pricing ##### To take in mind - Limited and slow customer assistance #### Features ##### Best rated features - Employee Self Service: 5/5 - Reminders: 5/5 - Accounting: 5/5 - Online Benefits Enrollment: 5/5 ##### Worst rated features - Customizable Reports: 3/5 - Vacation/Leave Tracking: 3.8/5 - Wage Garnishment: 3.8/5 [See all features](/hr/square-payroll-profile/#key-features) #### Pricing ##### Pay Employees and Contractors - Price: $35.00/month - The model is offered at $35 as a monthly subscription fee and $6 monthly fee per person. ##### Pay Contractors Only - Price: $6.00/month - This plan is offered at $6 monthly fee per person paid with unlimited pay runs per month [See full pricing details](/hr/square-payroll-profile/#pricing-and-plans) --- ### [Gusto](/product/20428-Gusto/) - Overall rating: 4.6/5 - Reviews: 4,233 - Starting price: $49.00/month - Best for: Small businesses - Free trial: Available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview Whether you’re just getting started or scaling your fast-growing business, Gusto is the partner you need to grow and nurture your team. With Gusto, you get modern HR features like [Read more](/product/20428-Gusto/) ##### What users love - Streamlined payroll and HR tasks - Intuitive setup and navigation - Clean and user-friendly design ##### To take in mind - Slow and inconsistent assistance - Notification and privacy frustrations - Expensive for growing businesses #### Features ##### Best rated features - Attendance Management: 5/5 - Attendance Tracking: 5/5 - API: 4.9/5 - Mobile App: 4.9/5 ##### Worst rated features - Data Import/Export: 3/5 - QuickBooks Integration: 3/5 - Reporting & Statistics: 3/5 [See all features](/product/20428-Gusto/#key-features) #### Pricing ##### Solo - Price: $49.00/month - + $6/month per person For solopreneurs needing payroll, S corp compliance support and the option to ##### Simple - Price: $49.00/month - + $6/month per person A streamlined set of automatic payroll features and benefits integrations. ##### Plus - Price: $80.00/month - + $12/month per person Limited Time Offer: $60/month + $9 per month per person for first 3 [See full pricing details](/product/20428-Gusto/#pricing-and-plans) --- ### [APS Payroll](/hr/aps-online-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.6/5 - Reviews: 600 - Starting price: $6.00/month - Best for: Customer support - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview At APS, our mission is simple: to make payroll and HR easier. Our comprehensive, user-friendly SaaS platform is designed to streamline human capital management for organizations, [Read more](/hr/aps-online-profile/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Employee Portal: 5/5 - Approval Process Control: 5/5 - Reminders: 5/5 - Employee Management: 5/5 ##### Worst rated features - Calendar Management: 4/5 - Candidate Profiles: 4/5 - Candidate Tracking: 4/5 [See all features](/hr/aps-online-profile/#key-features) --- ### [Dayforce Powerpay](/product/389199-Dayforce-Powerpay/) - Overall rating: 4.7/5 - Reviews: 266 - Best for: Payroll Management - Free trial: Available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview Dayforce Powerpay is an easy-to-use payroll and HR software solution for Canadian small businesses. Using Powerpay, you can help reduce risk by cutting through compliance [Read more](/product/389199-Dayforce-Powerpay/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Compliance Management: 5/5 - Time Off Requests: 5/5 - HR Management: 5/5 - Performance Management: 5/5 ##### Worst rated features - Overtime Calculation: 3/5 - Employee Portal: 4/5 - Payroll Outsourcing: 4/5 - Check Printing: 4/5 [See all features](/product/389199-Dayforce-Powerpay/#key-features) #### Pricing ##### Basic - Price: Custom - Pricing available upon request [See full pricing details](/product/389199-Dayforce-Powerpay/#pricing-and-plans) --- ### [PeopleBookHR](/hr/peoplebook-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.9/5 - Reviews: 84 - Starting price: $4.00/month - Free trial: Available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview PeopleBookHR is a cloud-based human resources (HR) management solution. Primary features include employee information management (EIM), asset management, payroll, performance [Read more](/hr/peoplebook-profile/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Time Off Management: 5/5 - Training Management: 5/5 - Employee Profiles: 5/5 - Payroll Management: 5/5 ##### Worst rated features - Learning & Development: 3/5 - Performance Management: 4/5 - Compensation Management: 4/5 - 360 Degree Feedback: 4/5 [See all features](/hr/peoplebook-profile/#key-features) #### Pricing ##### Basic - Price: $4.00/month [See full pricing details](/hr/peoplebook-profile/#pricing-and-plans) --- ### [Justworks](/hr/justworks-peo-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.6/5 - Reviews: 741 - Starting price: $8.00/month - Best for: Small businesses - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview Justworks makes it easier to start, run, and grow a business. With Justworks, entrepreneurs and their teams get access to big-company benefits, automated payroll, compliance [Read more](/hr/justworks-peo-profile/) ##### What users love - Intuitive and accessible platform design - Responsive and helpful support team - Streamlined employee administration tools ##### To take in mind - Inconsistent time tracking experience - Mobile app connectivity and usability issues - Limited break and check-in features #### Features ##### Best rated features - Mobile Access: 5/5 - Online Benefits Enrollment: 5/5 - Employee Portal: 5/5 - Wage Garnishment: 5/5 ##### Worst rated features - Sick Leave Tracking: 2/5 - Employee Benefits Administration: 3/5 [See all features](/hr/justworks-peo-profile/#key-features) --- ### [ActivityHD](/hr/activityhd-payroll-profile/) - Overall rating: 4.8/5 - Reviews: 54 - Free trial: Not available - Free demo: Not available #### Overview ActivityHD is a fully integrated accounting system designed to provide flexibility and improve decision making. Businesses can use ActivityHD to manage complex processes within [Read more](/hr/activityhd-payroll-profile/) #### Features ##### Best rated features - Accounts Receivable: 5/5 - Financial Management: 5/5 - Financial Reporting: 5/5 - Expense Tracking: 5/5 [See all features](/hr/activityhd-payroll-profile/#key-features) --- 1 [2](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/online-payroll-comparison/?__ai_markdown=true&page=2)[3](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/online-payroll-comparison/?__ai_markdown=true&page=3)[4](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/online-payroll-comparison/?__ai_markdown=true&page=4) ## Popular Comparisons [ RUN Powered by ADP vs ADP Workforce Now ](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/adp-run-profile/vs/adp-workforce-now/)[ Paylocity vs Rippling ](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/rippling-profile/vs/web-pay/)[ Paychex vs Gusto ](https://www.softwareadvice.com/compare/20428-Gusto/vs/428169-paychex-flex/)[ Paycor vs Patriot Software ](https://www.softwareadvice.com/compare/3746-Patriot-Software/vs/414126-paycor-perform/)[ NetSuite vs Wave ](https://www.softwareadvice.com/compare/18767-Wave-Apps/vs/25483-netsuite-financials-accounting-software/)[ isolved vs Paycom ](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/isolved-profile/vs/paycom/) ## Your Guide to Top Online Payroll Software, October 2022 Software Advice uses reviews from real software users to highlight the top-rated Online Payroll products in North America. [Learn how products are chosen](https://www.softwareadvice.com/legal-page/frontrunners-methodology/) #### Explore FrontRunners - [Rippling](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/rippling-profile/) - [Patriot Payroll](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/patriot-pay-profile/) - [OnPay](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/onpay-profile/) - [Dayforce Powerpay](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/dayforce-powerpay-profile/) - SentricHR - [UZIO](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/uzio-profile/) - [Square Payroll](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/square-payroll-profile/) - [APS Payroll](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/aps-online-profile/) - [Gusto](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/20428-Gusto/) - [Wagepoint](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/wagepoint-profile/) - [Justworks](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/justworks-peo-profile/) - [Netchex](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/netchex-profile/) - [TriNet HR Plus](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/zenefits-profile/) - Deluxe Payroll and HR - [ADP Workforce Now](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/adp-workforce-now-profile/) - [Dayforce HCM](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/dayforce-hcm-profile/) - [isolved](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/isolved-profile/) - [Employment Hero](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/employment-hero-profile/) - [RUN Powered by ADP](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/adp-run-profile/) - [Paylocity](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/web-pay-profile/) - [Paycor](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/paycor-perform-profile/) - [Paycom](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/paycom-profile/) - [Paychex Flex](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/paychex-flex-profile/) - [SurePayroll](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/surepayroll-payroll-profile/) “Usability” includes user ratings for Functionality and Ease of Use. “Customer Satisfaction” includes user ratings for Customer Support, Likelihood to Recommend and Value for Money. Reviews analysis period: The reviews analysis period spans two years and ends the 15th of the month prior to publication. ## Send me a copy of this list to my inbox ### Get a copy of this list with pricing info sent to your inbox so you can pick up where you left off when convenient to you. ## What Is Online Payroll Software? Online payroll software is a web-based payroll application that provides features such as compensation management, tax filing, and time and attendance tracking. Users can access these features via web-enabled devices (e.g., computer, tablet, smartphone). The software is hosted and managed by the vendor. Online, or “cloud-based,” payroll software refers to systems hosted in the cloud, on the software vendor’s servers. Unlike with on-premise deployments, which require users to install software on their own computers and servers, online software lets users log in from anywhere. There are many online payroll solutions out there. Some are sold as stand-alone payroll applications, while others are included as part of broader human resources (HR) software suites. [Big vendors, such as ADP](https://www.softwareadvice.com/resources/what-is-adp/), offer multiple cloud payroll systems with different levels of functionality. No matter which vendor you choose, there are some capabilities common to most online payroll systems, which we’ll explore next. (If you're not sold on the cloud-based deployment model and would prefer to evaluate all payroll systems, both cloud-based and on-premise, check out our [general payroll software guide](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/payroll-software-comparison/).) As high-speed Internet and mobile access become more common, online payroll software’s popularity is on the rise. If you're in the market for a new system, this guide will help you choose the right one for your business. We’ll cover: [What Is Online Payroll Software?](#WhatIsOnlinePayrollSoftware) [Common Applications of Online Payroll Software](#CommonApplicationsofOnlinePayrollSoftware) [What Type of Buyer Are You?](#WhatTypeofBuyerAreYou) [Benefits and Potential Issues](#BenefitsandPotentialIssues) [Market Trends to Understand](#MarketTrendstoUnderstand) ## Common Applications of Online Payroll Software These systems often come with some or all of the following core capabilities: | Feature | Description | | --- | --- | | Compensation management | Found in all payroll software; automates payroll processing. Users assign pay rates to employees, then enter employee hours manually or import them from a Web-based time and attendance application. The system automatically calculates wages and generates paychecks. May include direct deposit options, bonuses, commissions, overtime and tips. | | Time and attendance | Allows employees to clock in and out within the system, and administrators to track employee attendance. | | Tax filing | Available in more robust systems. Automatically prepares, files and pays state and federal taxes. Alternatively, provides tax calculations and/or documents for users to prepare and file manually. | | Accounting integration | Some systems package payroll processing and general accounting together. Alternatively, some systems simply offer integration with users’ existing online accounting software. | --- ## What Type of Buyer Are You? Online payroll software buyers can choose from options with a range of functionality: from basic compensation management systems all the way up to complete HR suites. The system that’s right for you will depend on your payroll, accounting and HR requirements: **Basic payroll needs.** Some vendors offer entry-level online payroll packages that include capabilities only for compensation management and time and attendance. Businesses looking to fulfill basic payroll needs might choose one of these, such as [Wagepoint](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/wagepoint-profile/) or Payroll by Wave. **Payroll and accounting software.** These solutions combine payroll processing and accounting. Systems such as [XERO](https://www.softwareadvice.com/accounting/xero-profile/) include payroll processing and general ledger accounting in one product. Others, such as [QuickBooks Full Service Payroll](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/quickbooks-full-service-payroll-profile/), integrate with full accounting platforms. Relatedly, some vendors offer [payroll solutions designed specifically for accountants](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/accountant-payroll-comparison/). **Complete HR suites.** As mentioned, many online payroll systems come as part of an HR suite. These suites include functionality for personnel tracking, applicant tracking, benefits administration, talent management, scheduling and more in addition to payroll. Businesses looking for a complete solution can check out software such as [Paychex Flex](https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/paychex-flex-profile/) and Kronos Workforce Central’s Web-based option. ## Benefits and Potential Issues There are many benefits of choosing online payroll software over software deployed on-premise. Some of these perks include: **Security.** With cloud-based deployments, businesses don’t have to worry about on-premise crashes, thefts or other crises. Online software vendors have their own secure servers and security policies to help prevent hacking and data loss (which are often more robust than those of individual businesses). **Automatic updates.** Cloud payroll software vendors often update their products to reflect things like changing tax laws. Because online payroll software can update automatically, users no longer have to buy new software each year. **Lower upfront costs.** Since cloud payroll solutions are typically priced on a subscription basis, users don’t have to pay a large installation fee up front, like they do with perpetual licenses (which are common for on-premise systems). Instead, they pay a more manageable fee either per month or per year. Though online payroll software solutions have lower initial costs, the recurring costs eventually add up. However, since on-premise software often requires users to purchase updates, over time, costs for the two types of system tend to even out. ## Market Trends to Understand Here are a few trends to be aware of as you search for new software in this market: **Mobile accessibility.** More and more businesses want their payroll software to be accessible from any device. Cloud-based software has made it possible for vendors to offer mobile apps, so users can log in from their smartphones and tablets. Many vendors also offer mobile employee portals. With these portals, employees can access their timesheets, salary information and more while on the go. **Cloud-based solutions for larger enterprises.** In the past, cloud solutions were marketed only to small and midsize businesses. Now, more and more vendors are offering robust online payroll systems for larger enterprises. Systems targeting larger businesses often include a wider range of capabilities, such as HR applications or accounting integration.