Managing payroll can be a significant headache for small business owners. The process involves many tasks, from meticulously tracking employee hours, including overtime and sick leave, to calculating and deducting various taxes accurately. Ensuring compliance with ever-changing tax laws and regulations can be daunting, leading to potential errors and costly penalties. Additionally, navigating complex payroll software or manually processing payroll can be time-consuming, diverting valuable resources from core business operations. You're certainly not alone if you're a small business owner grappling with these payroll challenges.
At Lift HCM, we understand these challenges. That’s why we have created a list of seven of the top-rated payroll services for small businesses in 2024. Lift HCM has been a trusted payroll and Human Capital Management (HCM) solution provider since 1967. We're committed to personalized customer service and confident in the value we deliver, but we understand that businesses have diverse needs and may wish to explore all of their options.
This article will highlight the features, cost, software, integration, and support options of some of the top-rated payroll services for small businesses.
Table of Contents
- Gusto
- OnPay
- Paychex
- Rippling
- ADP Run
- SurePayroll
- Patriot
- Choosing the Best Payroll Service For Your Business
Gusto
Gusto offers a robust payroll solution tailored for small to mid-sized entities, encompassing benefits administration and HR tools.
Key Features
- Full-service payroll processing
- Automatic tax filing (federal, state, and local)
- Employee benefits administration
- Time tracking and PTO management
- Employee self-service portal
- New hire reporting
Technology/Software: cloud-based, accessible from any device, user-friendly interface with step-by-step guidance
Integrations: QuickBooks, Xero, FreshBooks, TSheets, Homebase, Asana, Slack
Pricing
- Simple: $40/month base fee + $6 per employee per month
- Plus: $60/month base fee + $9 per employee per month
- Premium: Custom Quote Needed
- Contractor Only: $6 per employee per month
- Additional fees for add-ons like health benefits administration
Customer Support: Includes phone, email, and live chat, with priority support for higher-tier plans
OnPay
OnPay simplifies payroll processes for small businesses with essential payroll features and HR compliance tools.
Key Features
- Automated tax filing
- Benefits administration
- Time tracking and PTO management
- Employee self-service portal
- Workers’ compensation tracking
Technology/Software: Cloud-based and mobile-friendly interface
Integrations: QuickBooks, Xero, TSheets, Deputy
Pricing: $40/month + $6 per employee per month
Customer Support: Includes email, phone, live chat, and online help center
Paychex
Paychex is a software service for W-2 employees and 1099 contractors. In addition to payroll, it provides a variety of HR tools, customizable user roles for tailored access, and integrations with time tracking, attendance management, and other business management systems.
Key Features
- Full-service payroll processing
- Automated tax filing and compliance
- Employee benefits administration
- Time and attendance tracking
- HR solutions and services
- Financial wellness programs
Technology/Software: Paychex Flex (cloud-based)
Integrations:
- QuickBooks
- Sage
- BambooHR
- JazzHR
- TSheets
- NetSuite
- APIs for custom integrations
Pricing
Paychex Flex Essentials: $39/month plus $5 per employee; includes payroll processing, tax services, and new hire reporting
Paychex Flex Select: Custom pricing; offers more personalized services and additional features like a learning management system
Paychex Flex Pro: Custom pricing; includes full-service payroll and HR tools like new hire onboarding, background checks, and employee handbook builder
Customer Support: Includes 24/7 phone support for all customers, email and live chat, dedicated account manager, online knowledge base and support articles
Rippling
Rippling merges payroll, HR, and IT into a single platform, which is ideal for varying business sizes with customization and automation.
Key Features
- Unified platform for payroll, HR, and IT
- Automated payroll and tax filing
- Benefits administration
- Time and attendance tracking
- Device and app management
Technology/Software: Cloud-based platform with extensive automation, user-friendly interface with customizable workflows
Integrations
- QuickBooks
- Xero
- BambooHR
- Greenhouse
- Slack
- Google Workspace
- Okta
- Microsoft Azure
- Developer APIs for custom integrations
Pricing: Starts at $8 per month per user with custom quotes based on selected services
Customer Support: Includes email and phone support during business hours, live chat accessible from the platform, and online resources, including articles, guides, and FAQs
ADP Run
ADP Run is designed for small businesses with under 50 employees. It offers a range of features, including payroll processing and HR tools, that can be customized to meet your business's needs. The platform also provides customer support to assist with any questions or issues that may arise.
Key Features
- Payroll processing (weekly, bi-weekly, monthly)
- Automatic tax filing and payments
- Employee self-service portal
- Mobile app for payroll management
- Direct deposit and check printing
- HR support and compliance
- Time tracking and attendance
Technology/Software: cloud-based platform and mobile app, advanced security and compliance features
Integrations
- QuickBooks
- Xero
- ZipRecruiter
- Connections with over 700 insurance carriers and financial institutions for benefits administration
Pricing: $79 per month plus $4 per employee per month
Customer Support: Includes 24/7 expert support, extended live chat hours, and HR advisory services
SurePayroll
SurePayroll, a subsidiary of Paychex, is designed for small businesses and offers a suite of services to manage payroll processes. These include tax filings and payroll processing, along with optional features such as retirement plans and health insurance support, which may incur additional fees.
Key Features
- Full-service payroll processing
- Automated tax filing and compliance
- Employee benefits administration
- Time and attendance tracking
- Workers’ compensation insurance
Technology/Software: Cloud-based platform, mobile-friendly interface
Integrations
- QuickBooks
- Xero
- Sage
- FreshBooks
- ZohoBooks.
- Homebase
- BuddyPunch
Pricing: $29.99/month plus $5 per employee base price; Additional fees for features like multiple state filing, local tax filing for Ohio and Pennsylvania, and accounting integrations
Customer Support: includes support via phone, email, and live chat. Users have access to an online help center with articles, tutorials, and FAQs
Patriot
Patriot Payroll is designed for small businesses looking for a simple, cost-effective payroll solution that integrates payroll, tax filing, HR, and accounting services. However, it lacks mobile support and international payroll capabilities.
Key Features
- Full-service and self-service payroll options
- Automated tax filing (full-service plan)
- Time and attendance tracking
- Employee self-service portal
Technology/Software: Cloud-based platform, simple and user-friendly interface
Integrations
- QuickBooks Online
- QuickBooks Time
- GoCo and Plaid
- Vestwell for Retirement Plans
- WorkforceHub
Pricing: Basic Plan starts at $17/month plus $4 per employee; Full Service Plan starts at $37/month plus $4 per employee
Customer Support: includes phone, email, live chat, and online help center with articles, tutorials, and FAQs
Comparing Payroll Services
Choosing the right payroll service for your small business is crucial for streamlining operations and ensuring your employees are paid accurately and on time. It can also alleviate the burden of complex tax filings and compliance requirements. Each payroll provider offers unique features and strengths, catering to different business sizes, budgets, and needs.
In this article, we've evaluated a variety of payroll services, assessing their ease of use, pricing structures, additional features (like HR tools and benefits administration), and customer support. Our analysis will help you identify the key differences between providers and determine the ideal solution for your specific business needs.
Below, we summarize our findings and offer recommendations to guide you toward a payroll service that will save you time, reduce stress, and ultimately contribute to the success of your business.
| Service | Best For | Description |
| Gusto | Small businesses seeking an all-in-one solution with excellent user experience and benefits administration. | Gusto is ideal for small businesses looking for a user-friendly interface and comprehensive benefits management. Its intuitive design and strong customer support make it a great choice for those new to payroll services. |
| ADP Run | Businesses that need a highly scalable solution with advanced features and comprehensive support. | ADP stands out for its scalability and robust feature set, making it suitable for businesses of all sizes. While it can be complex, its extensive support and customization options are valuable for growing businesses. |
| Paychex | Businesses that want a flexible and personalized payroll service with extensive HR support. | Paychex offers a wide range of payroll and HR services and strong customer support. Its flexibility and dedicated representatives benefit businesses that require personalized assistance. |
| OnPay | Small businesses seeking an affordable and user-friendly payroll service with no hidden fees. | OnPay provides an affordable and easy-to-use payroll solution with transparent pricing. It’s well-suited for small businesses looking for straightforward payroll and HR features. |
| Rippling | Businesses needing a highly customizable payroll service with strong integration options. | Rippling is known for its flexibility and comprehensive integration capabilities. It’s ideal for businesses requiring a customizable solution to grow with them. |
| SurePayroll | Small businesses seeking a reliable and cost-effective payroll service with excellent customer support. | SurePayroll offers a straightforward payroll service with competitive pricing and strong customer support. It’s perfect for small businesses that need a reliable and easy-to-use payroll solution. |
| Patriot | Small businesses looking for an affordable and simple payroll service with reliable support. | Patriot stands out for its affordability and simplicity, making it a great option for budget-conscious small businesses. Its straightforward interface and reliable support make it easy to manage payroll efficiently. |
Choosing the Best Payroll Service For Your Business
Ultimately, the best payroll service for your business depends on your specific needs, budget, and existing systems. Consider the features that matter most to you, whether it’s compliance support, ease of use, or customer service. By evaluating these factors, you can select a payroll provider that will help streamline your processes and support your business growth. If you are looking for payroll services and appreciate transparency in partnerships, Lift HCM could be the perfect match for your business. For over fifty years, we've helped businesses across the country simplify their payroll and meet compliance standards. We started as a small payroll company in Chicago and, to this day, maintain the personal approach we've always been known for.
Discover how we can streamline your HR processes and boost productivity with our comprehensive suite of Human Capital Management solutions. From payroll processing to talent management, we have the tools you need to succeed. Explore Our solutions!
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