Most feature-packed of the payroll options we reviewed. Gusto is an affordable option with the most extensive range of capabilities, including rare features like lifetime accounts. If one software service is less expensive but lacks a feature that would save you hours on payroll each month, it may actually cost you more in the long run.

Most offers include essential features like automated taxes, automated payroll, and leave tracking, but only a few offer advanced features like FICA tip credit, digital signatures, and lifetime accounts.

Most free offers are either for a limited time or for a limited number of employees.

If Excel is all you need for payroll, check out our guide to Excel payroll forumlas. While TriNet Zenefits offers more features, QuickBooks Payroll has some that TriNet Zenefits doesn't, such as net-to-gross calculations and tax penalty protection.īe sure to check out our full list of payroll software for more companies you should consider, and read our guide on how to choose the best payroll software for your business. Unlike TriNet Zenefits, QuickBooks Payroll is available as a standalone payroll product but also integrates seamlessly with other QuickBooks solutions. QuickBooks Payroll is our third best pick. With excellent customer reviews and an impressive feature profile, TriNet Zenefits presents an attractive option. While TriNet Zenefits only offers paid HR base plans, users can get a full year of free payroll when signing up for the Growth or Zen packages on an annual basis. TriNet Zenefits is our next best pick and offers the widest range of features of all the software we reviewed. Key features include lifetime accounts, unlimited pay runs, and multi-state payroll. Although TriNet Zenefits offers more features, Gusto stands out as the most user-friendly platform and is not short on payroll and HR solutions. It offers affordable and highly reliable payroll solutions to suit businesses of various sizes.

Gusto is our top pick overall for payroll software.

Reviews of quickbooks payroll service