Managing payroll is a crucial aspect of running a business, but it can be time-consuming and complicated. Fortunately, the rise of online payroll services has made it easier for business owners to handle payroll accurately and efficiently, saving both time and money. The best online payroll companies not only calculate salaries and deductions but also provide tax filing, benefits administration, and compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
In this article, we’ll explore the Top 10 Best Online Payroll Companies & Services for 2025. Whether you’re a small business owner or a large enterprise, these platforms offer scalable solutions tailored to meet your needs.
1. Gusto
Overview:
Gusto is one of the most popular payroll providers for small to mid-sized businesses. Known for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features, Gusto makes managing payroll simple, and its additional HR tools make it a go-to for many businesses.
Key Features:
- Full-Service Payroll: Automatic tax calculations and filings, including federal, state, and local taxes.
- Employee Self-Service: Employees can access their pay stubs, tax forms, and benefits information.
- Benefits Management: Health insurance, retirement plans, and more.
- Time Tracking: Integrates with time tracking software to streamline payroll processing.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use interface with automatic tax filing.
- Additional HR features such as benefits management and hiring tools.
- Excellent customer support.
Cons:
- Slightly higher pricing for smaller businesses.
- Limited international payroll capabilities.
Pricing:
- Core Plan: Starts at $40/month + $6 per employee.
- Additional fees for advanced features.
2. QuickBooks Payroll
Overview:
QuickBooks Payroll is an excellent choice for businesses already using QuickBooks for accounting. Its seamless integration with QuickBooks makes it one of the most powerful payroll services, especially for businesses seeking a comprehensive financial solution.
Key Features:
- Automatic Tax Filing: Pays and files federal and state taxes automatically.
- Direct Deposit: Employees can receive payments through direct deposit.
- Time Tracking: Integrated with QuickBooks Time for seamless payroll processing.
- Health Benefits: Offers health insurance plans, retirement, and more.
- Mobile App: Allows you to manage payroll on the go.
Pros:
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks accounting software.
- Accurate tax filing and employee payment options.
- Mobile app for managing payroll anytime.
Cons:
- Higher cost for the full-service version.
- Some users report a steep learning curve.
Pricing:
- Core Plan: Starts at $45/month + $4 per employee.
- Premium Plan: Starts at $75/month.
3. ADP Workforce Now
Overview:
ADP is one of the largest payroll and HR service providers in the world, and its ADP Workforce Now platform is designed for small to mid-sized businesses. ADP’s reputation for reliability and scalability makes it an ideal choice for growing businesses.
Key Features:
- Full-Service Payroll: Handles payroll, tax filing, and benefits administration.
- Custom Reporting: Generate payroll and HR reports with advanced customization options.
- Time and Attendance: Tracks employee hours and integrates with payroll processing.
- Employee Benefits Management: Provides health benefits, retirement, and more.
Pros:
- Excellent for growing businesses with complex payroll needs.
- Highly customizable reporting and analytics.
- Dedicated customer support and training.
Cons:
- Can be expensive for small businesses.
- The user interface can be complex for beginners.
Pricing:
- Custom pricing based on business size and services selected.
4. Paychex Flex
Overview:
Paychex is a well-established payroll company that offers a robust and scalable solution for businesses of all sizes. Paychex Flex offers features beyond payroll, including HR and benefits management, making it an excellent all-in-one solution.
Key Features:
- Payroll Processing: Automated payroll and tax filing.
- HR Features: Employee management, hiring, and performance tracking.
- Employee Benefits: Health, retirement, and other benefits management.
- Mobile Access: Employees and employers can access information via the Paychex Flex app.
- Compliance Assistance: Ensures that your business complies with labor laws.
Pros:
- Flexible plans for small and large businesses.
- Strong HR features and compliance support.
- Excellent customer service.
Cons:
- Some advanced features may not be necessary for very small businesses.
- May require a bit of setup time.
Pricing:
- Custom pricing based on your business needs.
5. OnPay
Overview:
OnPay offers a simple and affordable payroll service ideal for small to medium-sized businesses. With a focus on accuracy and ease of use, OnPay’s platform provides all the essential features you need to run payroll smoothly.
Key Features:
- Automatic Payroll Processing: Processes payroll and manages taxes automatically.
- Tax Filing: Files federal, state, and local taxes for you.
- Employee Benefits: Supports health insurance, retirement, and other benefits.
- Integration: Syncs with accounting and time tracking software.
- Employee Portal: Employees can access pay stubs, tax forms, and other important information.
Pros:
- Simple and intuitive user interface.
- Affordable pricing with no hidden fees.
- Strong customer support.
Cons:
- Limited advanced features for large enterprises.
- No mobile app for employers.
Pricing:
- $40/month + $6 per employee.
6. Zenefits
Overview:
Zenefits is a comprehensive HR platform with payroll services designed to help small businesses scale. It’s best suited for businesses looking for an all-in-one HR and payroll solution.
Key Features:
- Payroll Integration: Automates tax filing and payroll processing.
- HR Tools: Manage employee benefits, compliance, and performance.
- Time Tracking: Integrated time and attendance management.
- Benefits Management: Manage health, dental, and retirement plans.
- Employee Onboarding: Automates onboarding processes for new hires.
Pros:
- Excellent for companies that need both HR and payroll in one platform.
- Scalable features for growing businesses.
- Easy-to-use interface and good customer support.
Cons:
- Some features require higher-tier plans.
- The platform can be overwhelming for smaller businesses.
Pricing:
- Essentials Plan: Starts at $10 per month per employee for payroll.
- Additional costs for HR features.
7. Wave Payroll
Overview:
Wave Payroll is a cost-effective payroll solution that’s ideal for freelancers and small businesses. It’s a simple, no-frills option that automates payroll and tax filing, making it a good choice for businesses with fewer employees.
Key Features:
- Automatic Payroll: Simplifies payroll by automating calculations and filings.
- Tax Filing: Automatically files taxes for federal, state, and local governments.
- Direct Deposit: Offers fast and secure payment options for employees.
- Time Tracking: Time tracking is integrated for seamless payroll processing.
Pros:
- Free accounting software that integrates with Wave Payroll.
- Low-cost payroll services.
- Easy to use and set up.
Cons:
- Limited features compared to other payroll services.
- Not ideal for businesses with complex payroll needs.
Pricing:
- $35/month + $6 per employee.
8. Square Payroll
Overview:
Square Payroll is an excellent choice for small businesses, especially those already using Square for payments. It offers automatic payroll processing and tax filing, along with the ability to pay contractors and employees.
Key Features:
- Payroll Management: Automatic calculations and tax filings for employees and contractors.
- Direct Deposit: Employees and contractors can receive payments via direct deposit.
- Time Tracking: Integrated with Square Time Card for seamless tracking.
- Simple Setup: Quick to set up and easy to use.
Pros:
- Ideal for small businesses and those already using Square.
- Simple and intuitive interface.
- Affordable for businesses with fewer employees.
Cons:
- Limited HR features compared to other platforms.
- Not ideal for large enterprises.
Pricing:
- $35/month + $5 per employee.
9. BambooHR
Overview:
BambooHR is primarily known for its human resources management software, but it also offers payroll services as part of its comprehensive HR suite. It’s ideal for small to mid-sized businesses that need payroll along with other HR tools.
Key Features:
- Payroll Processing: Manage payroll for multiple locations and tax jurisdictions.
- HR Management: Handle employee records, benefits, and performance.
- Employee Self-Service: Employees can access payroll information and update their profiles.
- Time Off Tracking: Automatically tracks employee time off.
Pros:
- Best for businesses that need both HR and payroll.
- Strong HR and employee management features.
- Simple and easy-to-use interface.
Cons:
- Higher pricing for smaller businesses.
- Payroll feature is an add-on, not included in basic plans.
Pricing:
- Custom pricing based on business needs.
10. Patriot Software
Overview:
Patriot Software offers an affordable and efficient payroll solution for small businesses. Its focus is on simplicity, making it easy for users to process payroll and manage taxes without being overwhelmed by complex features.
Key Features:
- Automatic Tax Filing: Federal, state, and local taxes are filed automatically.
- Direct Deposit: Offers direct deposit for employees.
- Time Tracking: Integration with Patriot’s time tracking system.
- HR Services: Optional HR features such as employee onboarding.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing, making it perfect for small businesses.
- Simple to use with excellent customer support.
- No long-term contracts.
Cons:
- Limited features compared to more comprehensive solutions.
- Lacks advanced HR tools.
Pricing:
- Basic Plan: Starts at $17/month + $4 per employee.
- Full-service payroll: Starts at $37/month + $4 per employee.
Conclusion
Choosing the right payroll service depends on your business size, industry, and specific needs. Gusto and QuickBooks Payroll stand out for their comprehensive features, while Wave Payroll and Square Payroll offer affordable options for smaller businesses. Services like Paychex Flex and ADP Workforce Now are better suited for larger businesses or those with more complex payroll needs. Whichever platform you choose, make sure it aligns with your business operations and growth strategy to streamline your payroll process efficiently and cost-effectively.