Updated May 2, 2025 at 3:58 PM
Patriot Payroll 2026: Benefits, Features & Pricing
Written by Emilie Audubert
Content Analyst
Edited by Mehar Luthra
Team Lead, Content
Wondering if Patriot Payroll is right for your organization?
Our Payroll Software selection experts can help you in 15 minutes or less.
- Our Summary
- Pricing and Plans
- Features
- Integrations
- Key Sentiments
- User Reviews
- Frequently Asked Questions
Our Summary
Pros:
- Ease of use
- Affordable pricing
Cons:
- Reporting limitations
- Direct deposit processing times
Pricing
Starting at $17.00 per month
What is Patriot Payroll:
Patriot Payroll is payroll software designed to make it easier for small business owners to pay employees. It streamlines a range of payroll activities, including calculating wages, withholding taxes, paying workers, and creating pay stubs.
Why we like Patriot Payroll:
Patriot Payroll is a well-reviewed payroll tool with an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 from users and equally high ratings in each of the four subcategories. Payroll management, tax compliance, and direct deposit, which all save valuable time, are the top-rated features among users.
Who should use Patriot Payroll:
Patriot Payroll is a good match for small business owners who need a simple payroll solution. It offers an inexpensive basic plan for those willing to handle payroll tax filings themselves. More than 70% of reviewers come from companies with between two and 10 employees, testifying to the software’s usefulness for very small businesses.
Patriot Payroll Screenshots
Patriot Payroll Overview
Patriot Payroll is a cloud-based payroll solution that supports multiple pay rates, enabling businesses to cater to various compensation structures within their organization. Additionally, the employee portal provided by the software enhances employee engagement and self-service capabilities, empowering staff to access their payroll information conveniently. The software also offers the option for electronic or printable W-2s, simplifying tax reporting processes for both employees and businesses.
Patriot Payroll allows users to pay contractors within the same payroll syste...
m, streamlining payment processes and ensuring accurate record-keeping. The contractor portal offered by the software enhances the contractor experience and simplifies communication and payment processes between businesses and external contractors. With support for all pay frequencies, businesses can customize their payroll scheduling to align with their specific needs and requirements. It provides flexibility for businesses to adapt to changing circumstances and make necessary adjustments in real-time. Additionally, customizable hours, money, and deductions allow for tailored payroll processing, catering to unique business requirements and ensuring accuracy in payroll calculations. The time-off accruals feature simplifies leave management processes, allowing businesses to track and manage employee absences effectively. For tax-related tasks, Patriot Payroll offers optional 1099 e-Filing, facilitating filing for contractors. The solution's payroll reports provide valuable insights into payroll data, enabling businesses to gain a deeper understanding of their financials and make informed decisions. With support for departments and multiple locations, Patriot Payroll ensures that businesses can manage payroll across various organizational units seamlessly. Businesses can add unlimited users with permissions, allowing for secure access and collaboration within the system. The Net to Gross Payroll tool simplifies gross pay calculations based on net pay amounts, enhancing accuracy in payroll processing. The tool's mobile-friendly design ensures that users can access and manage payroll tasks. Patriot Payroll also offers integration with third-party accounting platforms, time and attendance systems, and HR solutions that help manage various aspects of business operations. The HR integration feature and HR Center further enhance the solution's capabilities by centralizing HR tasks and information in one convenient platform. Patriot Payroll offers free integration with 401(k) plans and workers' compensation processes, simplifying benefits administration and ensuring compliance with regulations. The tool's commitment to filing and depositing federal, state, and local payroll taxes, as well as year-end payroll tax filings.Patriot Payroll Pricing and Plans
Basic Payroll
$17.00
Plan includes:
- Employee Portal
- Net to Gross Payroll Tool
- multiple pay rates
- multiple work locations
- manage deductions and contributions
- free integrations for pay as you go workers comp
- All Pay Frequencies
Full Service Payroll
$37.00
Plan includes:
- 1099 E-Filing
- All Pay Frequencies
- Departments
- Employee Portal
- File and Deposit Local Payroll Taxes
- File and Deposit State Payroll Taxes
- File Year-End Payroll Tax Filing
- Net to Gross Payroll Tool
- Tax Filing Accuracy
Confused about pricing? We've got you covered.
Get a personalized pricing breakdown tailored to your specific needs—no guesswork, no generic estimates.
Our Analysis of Patriot Payroll's Pricing Plans
Selecting the right payroll solution can be challenging, but we’re here to help. We've analyzed each plan of Patriot Payroll in detail, outlining the key features, benefits, and considerations to help you determine the best fit for your company. Patriot's payroll offerings include the Basic Payroll plan and the Full Service Payroll plan, each with unique advantages. Understanding the differences between these plans is essential for making a...
n informed decision that aligns with your business requirements and budget. __Basic Payroll plan__ Patriot's Basic Payroll plan is a cost-effective solution for small businesses looking to streamline their payroll processes. At just $17 per month plus $4 per employee or contractor, this plan offers a range of essential features to simplify payroll management. __Pros:__ - __Affordable pricing:__ The low monthly base fee and per-employee cost make it accessible for businesses on a tight budget. - __Comprehensive payroll features:__ Unlimited payrolls, free direct deposit, and the ability to pay contractors ensure all your payroll needs are covered. - __Employee self-service:__ The free employee portal empowers your staff to access their payroll information independently, reducing administrative burden. __Cons:__ - __Limited tax filing services:__ The Basic plan does not include tax filing and deposit services, which may be a drawback for businesses seeking a fully automated payroll solution. - __Base fee applies even without running payroll:__ You will owe the monthly base fee even for months in which you don’t run payroll. __Full Service Payroll plan__ For businesses that require a more comprehensive payroll solution, Patriot Payroll offers the Full Service Payroll plan at $37 per month plus $5 per employee or contractor. This plan includes all the features of the Basic plan, as well as additional tax filing services. __Pros:__ - __Complete payroll tax management:__ Federal, state, and local tax filings and deposits are handled on your behalf, saving you time and reducing compliance risks. - __Year-end tax filings included:__ The plan covers year-end payroll tax filings at no extra cost, ensuring a smooth transition into the new tax year. - __Tax filing reliability guarantee:__ Patriot stands behind its tax filing services, providing peace of mind for your business. __Cons:__ - __Higher costs:__ The Full Service plan is more expensive than the Basic plan, which may not be feasible for businesses with limited budgets. - __Additional costs for multiple states:__ If your business operates in multiple states, you'll incur an additional fee of $12 per state. __Add-on services__ Patriot offers optional add-on services to enhance your payroll experience, including tools for time and attendance management and HR functions such as handbook and policy creation. Each add-on costs $6 per month plus $2 per employee per month, allowing you to tailor your payroll system to your business's specific needs. __Conclusion__ Patriot Payroll offers two payroll pricing plans to suit businesses of various sizes and needs. By carefully considering the features and costs associated with each plan, companies can make informed decisions that align with their financial and operational goals. __For startups and small businesses:__ The Basic Payroll plan provides a solid foundation for managing payroll efficiently. With its affordable monthly fee and low per-employee cost, it allows small teams willing to file their own taxes to streamline their payroll processes without breaking the bank. The included features, such as unlimited payrolls and free direct deposit, ensure that even small businesses can maintain professional and timely payroll management. __For growing and mid-sized businesses:__ As companies expand and their payroll needs become more complex, the Full Service Payroll plan becomes an attractive choice. While it comes with a higher monthly cost, the comprehensive tax filing services and guaranteed accuracy provide peace of mind and save valuable time. This plan is particularly well-suited for businesses with a growing workforce and those that operate in multiple states, as it simplifies the intricacies of tax compliance. Ultimately, the best plan choice is based on each business’s unique requirements and growth trajectory. By assessing the number of employees, budget constraints, and the level of payroll support needed, companies can select the plan that strikes the right balance between functionality and affordability. With Patriot's flexible pricing options and transparent costs, businesses can confidently choose a payroll solution that empowers them to focus on their core operations and achieve long-term success.Compare Pricing
Compare pricing across our most frequently recommended Payroll products.
recommendations
recommendations
recommendations
recommendations
*Defined as the price above any available free plan
Patriot Payroll Features
Drawn from insights across 3579 verified reviews, we've outlined Patriot Payroll's best and worst rated features and how they stack up against the average rating.
Patriot Payroll's Best Rated Features
Tax Filing
3.36 category average
Dashboard
4.05 category average
For Small Businesses
4.57 category average
Patriot Payroll's Worst Rated Features
Timesheet Management
4.03 category average
Wage Garnishment
3.49 category average
401(k) Tracking
3.21 category average
- Popular features found in Payroll401(k) TrackingBenefits ManagementCheck PrintingCompensation ManagementCompliance ManagementDirect DepositEmployee DatabaseSelf Service PortalThird-Party IntegrationsW-2 PreparationWage Garnishment
- More features of Patriot Payroll1099 PreparationAccess Controls/PermissionsAccountingAccounting IntegrationActivity DashboardAlerts/NotificationsApproval Process ControlAttendance ManagementAudit TrailAuto UpdateCustomizable ReportsDashboardData Import/ExportDocument ManagementDocument StorageEmployee ManagementEmployee PortalEmployee ProfilesFor CloudFor MobileFor Small BusinessesMobile AccessMulti-StateOnboardingPayroll ManagementPayroll ReportingQuickBooks IntegrationRemindersReporting/AnalyticsReporting & StatisticsSick Leave TrackingSplit DepositsTax CalculationTax ComplianceTax FilingTax FormsTax ManagementTime & AttendanceTimesheet ManagementTime TrackingVacation/Leave Tracking
Patriot Payroll Integrations
Based on 3579 verified reviews, we've identified products most frequently integrated with Patriot Payroll.
See all 12 integrations
Patriot Payroll Key Sentiments
We analyzed 3579 verified reviews for Patriot Payroll to find out what actual users really think.
Most Positive Sentiments
Customer support
Users consistently praise Patriot Payroll for its responsive and helpful customer support, which enhances their overall experience with the software. They find the support team knowledgeable and quick to address any issues, making the transition and ongoing use of the software smooth. Additionally, users appreciate the US-based customer service, which provides timely and effective assistance.
Payroll management
Patriot Payroll is highly effective for managing payroll, according to users, who highlight its ease of use and suitability for small businesses. They appreciate the flexibility it offers in payroll processing and the excellent customer support. Additionally, users value the software's ability to handle various payroll tasks effortlessly, making it a preferred choice for their payroll needs.
Payroll taxes management
Reviewers commend Patriot Payroll for its efficient handling of payroll taxes, highlighting the ease of processing and automatic filing of taxes. They find the software cost-effective and appreciate the peace of mind it provides by ensuring timely and accurate tax payments. Users also value the simplicity and time-saving features that allow them to focus on other business tasks while Patriot manages their payroll taxes.
Least Positive Sentiments
Reporting
Reviews indicate that Patriot Payroll's reporting features are helpful, with users appreciating the clear and professional appearance of reports and the ability to customize them. They also value the ease of accessing past reports and the comprehensive options available for various reporting needs. However, users express a desire for more robust reporting features, easier navigation, and better customization options to meet their specific requirements.
Employee payroll
Patriot Payroll enables employees to access pay stubs and update records through the employee portal, which users appreciate for saving time. They also like the customization options for different pay types and the ability to manage both contractors and employees efficiently. However, users express concerns about the lack of support for multiple pay rates and the occasional challenges in payroll management and processing.
Tax filing
Users like Patriot Payroll's ability to handle tax filings, ensuring compliance and timely submissions. They find the software cost-effective and value the support for various tax requirements, including federal and state filings. However, some users experience issues with tax payments and documentation, and they express a need for more guidance and improved communication regarding tax filing processes.
Patriot Payroll User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.8
Ratings Breakdown
5
85%
4
12%
3
2%
2
0%
1
1%
Secondary Ratings
Ease of Use
4.8
Value for money
4.8
Customer support
4.8
Functionality
4.7
Victoria M.
Verified reviewer
Hospital & Health Care
Self-Employed
Used weekly for less than 6 months
Review sourceReviewed August 2025
Affordable and User Friendly
5
Overall, my experience with Patriot Payroll has been great. I appreciate quality software that is user friendly and easy on the budget!
Ratings Breakdown
Reasons for switching to Patriot Payroll
Negative experience with Wave that resulted in needing to transfer to new software.
Read More
Diana A.
Verified reviewer
Construction
11-50 employees
Used weekly for more than 2 years
Review sourceReviewed February 2026
Patriot Payroll is Awesome!
5
My overall experience with Patriot Payroll has been positive. They have been very responsive and professional with any questions and problems I have encountered.
Ratings Breakdown
Reasons for choosing Patriot Payroll
Patriot Payroll had all the boxes checked as far as what we were looking for.
Reasons for switching to Patriot Payroll
Payroll Taxes not paid on time, payroll reports were incorrect and hard to read, had to email in for reports for time periods needed for audits.
Read More
Rebecca H.
Verified reviewer
Hospitality
51-200 employees
Used weekly for more than 2 years
Review sourceReviewed July 2025
Patriot Payroll just works!
5
We have been using Patriot Payroll for several years and we have saved a lot of money compared to our previous payroll providers.
Ratings Breakdown
Reasons for switching to Patriot Payroll
They had failed us in reporting our end of year filings for the first year that we started with them and they were very expensive.
Vendor Response
Hi Rebecca! We're sorry to hear about your issues with integration into Quickbooks. Could you please call into our support team so we can help you troubleshoot the issue? We'd love to help resolve this!
Replied August 2025
Read More
Paul H.
Verified reviewer
Non-Profit Organization Management
11-50 employees
Used weekly for more than 2 years
Review sourceReviewed December 2025
Perfect fit for a small company
5
We needed to convert our payroll processing system a few years ago - I had heard an ad on the radio for the product and started researching it. It was a perfect fit for us, and we immediately implemented it in 2017, and haven't changed or even considered changing since then, even through our renewed growth.
Ratings Breakdown
Reasons for switching to Patriot Payroll
Primarily the cost of using the program. We were in a "bad place", and the cost of the previous payroll processing system was well over four times the cost of Patriot Software. Additionally, it was very cumbersome to use.
Read More
Linda M.
Verified reviewer
Consumer Services
2-10 employees
Used weekly for more than 2 years
Review sourceReviewed February 2026
Linda M's Review
5
I have never had any problems using this software. They are always there to answer any questions I have.
Ratings Breakdown
Reasons for switching to Patriot Payroll
It got way too expensive to use. This is a lot more convenient and had more features.
Read More
Kelly B.
Verified reviewer
Insurance
2-10 employees
Used weekly for less than 2 years
Review sourceReviewed February 2026
Love Patriot Payroll!
5
Fantastic! Setup was easy. The product is easy to use and the service is quick and excellent knowledge level. I pay my 1099s with a paper check but still need to provide them a 1099 at year's end. Since I run payroll with Patriot I can track those payments and produce a 1099 for free! Nice bonus.
Ratings Breakdown
Reasons for switching to Patriot Payroll
They were not making all my state reporting and told me I would have to figure it out and file it myself. When I called customer service I held for hours then got someone in a foreign country that had no idea how to fix the product. I was bounced around to different people, on the phone for hours and still no resolution.
Read More
James L.
Verified reviewer
Health, Wellness and Fitness
Self-Employed
Used monthly for less than 2 years
Review sourceReviewed February 2026
Simple To Use
5
Overall, Patriot gave me an economical solution to a one employee business with multiple contractors that receive 1099s.
Ratings Breakdown
Reasons for choosing Patriot Payroll
Inexpensive option for our company. I didn't need the Quickbooks Accounting which is cumbersome.
Reasons for switching to Patriot Payroll
The cost got too high and I had an option for accounting.
Read More
Jeff S.
Verified reviewer
Construction
2-10 employees
Used weekly for more than 2 years
Review sourceReviewed February 2026
Ease of use
5
Smooth transition and knowledgeable staff. Each person we have spoken with have been easy to understand and offered a great experience to answer our questions and solve our problems.
Ratings Breakdown
Reasons for switching to Patriot Payroll
I did not like Quickbooks customer service or cost
Read More
John M.
Verified reviewer
Hospitality
2-10 employees
Used monthly for more than 2 years
Review sourceReviewed February 2026
So Much Better than the Big Payroll Companies!
5
Signing up was easy, transferring my past records was seemless, the software is quite intuitive and when I do have a question, it gets answered quickly.
Ratings Breakdown
Reasons for switching to Patriot Payroll
They made an error during set up and never fixed it even after repeated requests. They refused to take responsibility. It was clear that my small company was not worth the time or money. They didn't care.
Read More
Laura F.
Verified reviewer
Construction
2-10 employees
Used weekly for less than 2 years
Review sourceReviewed February 2026
Wish I found patriot sooner
5
Great experience, has everything I need , payroll is super easy, W-2’s were simple and creating 1099’s was also very simple
Ratings Breakdown
Reasons for choosing Patriot Payroll
Price , easy, simple to use, use in my home office, convenient
Read More
Patriot Payroll FAQs
- How much does Patriot payroll cost?
Patriot Payroll offers two packages: Basic Payroll costs $17 per month plus $4 per worker per month and Full Service Payroll costs $37 per month plus $5 per worker per month. Both packages include free direct deposit, an employee portal, and unlimited payrolls; Full Service adds tax-related tools.
- How does Patriot Payroll work?
When using Patriot Payroll, business owners input employee hours, the hourly pay rate, and any necessary deductions. The software automatically calculates how much each employee gets paid, both gross and net, as well as applicable taxes. It can then pay your employees via direct deposit and file and deposit payroll taxes (depending on your plan).
- Is Patriot Software legit?
Patriot Software has been operating for many years and has a good reputation as a dependable organization with high-quality products. Users rate the software very highly. Patriot Software also has a large client base, which inspires confidence for those interested in trying its products.
- Who owns Patriot software?
Patriot Software is a privately held company founded by serial entrepreneur Mike Kappel. As a private company, information about its owners or shareholders isn’t readily available. Patriot considered going public at one point but Kappel felt it could better serve its customers as a private entity.
- Does Patriot Payroll have an app?
Patriot Software’s My Patriot app is designed for workers whose employers use Patriot Payroll. It provides paycheck and time tracking information for employees but isn’t meant to be a full-service, mobile version of Patriot Payroll. There isn’t a Patriot Payroll mobile app, but its mobile-responsive design means many features work on a mobile device.
Patriot Payroll Popular Comparisons
Stuck Between Options?
Our experts can help you compare Patriot Payroll with other top options, so you can find the best fit for your needs.