Best payroll software for accountants

When it comes to pinpointing the best payroll software for accountants, the answer isn’t a single, one-size-fits-all solution, but rather a strategic alignment of features, scalability, and integration capabilities with the specific needs of an accounting practice and its clients. For discerning accountants, the ideal payroll software must simplify complex tax calculations, ensure compliance with ever-changing regulations, and provide robust reporting—all while maximizing efficiency and minimizing errors. The top contenders consistently offer automation, comprehensive tax management, seamless accounting software integration, and a user-friendly interface that caters to both seasoned professionals and their diverse clientele. Ultimately, the “best” choice empowers accountants to deliver accurate, timely, and compliant payroll services, freeing up valuable time to focus on strategic client advisory.

Navigating the Payroll Software Landscape: What Accountants Really Need

Choosing the right payroll software is less about picking the flashiest tool and more about selecting a reliable partner that understands the nuanced demands of an accounting firm.

It’s about ensuring compliance, accuracy, and efficiency for every client, regardless of their size or industry. Forget the notion of a magic bullet.

Instead, focus on a system that truly integrates into your workflow, making life easier, not more complicated.

Compliance and Tax Management: The Non-Negotiables

Payroll is inherently intertwined with complex tax laws and regulations.

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Any software you consider must be a fortress of compliance. The stakes are too high to compromise here. Best payroll software for payroll service providers

• Automated Tax Filing and Payments: The ability to automatically calculate, file, and remit payroll taxes to federal, state, and local agencies is paramount. This drastically reduces the risk of penalties and frees up countless hours.
  • According to a 2023 survey by the National Small Business Association NSBA, 37% of small businesses report spending more than 80 hours per year on federal tax paperwork alone. Accountants using robust payroll software can significantly reduce this burden for their clients.
• Up-to-Date Regulatory Compliance: Tax laws change frequently, sometimes annually, sometimes mid-year. Your software must be updated proactively to reflect these changes without manual intervention. This includes:
  • New minimum wage laws
  • Changes in unemployment insurance rates
  • New tax forms or reporting requirements e.g., W-2, 1099, 941
• Support for Multiple Jurisdictions: Many accounting firms serve clients operating in different states or even internationally. The software must handle varying state and local tax requirements, including SUTA, FUTA, and specific local income taxes.

Integration Capabilities: The Backbone of Efficiency

A standalone payroll system, no matter how good, creates data silos.

Seamless integration with your existing accounting ecosystem is critical for data accuracy and workflow streamlining.

• Accounting Software Integration: The gold standard is direct, two-way integration with popular accounting platforms like QuickBooks, Xero, Sage, or NetSuite. This means:
  • Automatic journal entries for payroll expenses
  • Real-time synchronization of general ledger data
  • Reduced manual data entry, virtually eliminating transposition errors.
  • A 2022 study by Accenture found that companies leveraging integrated systems can achieve up to a 25% reduction in administrative costs.
• Time Tracking Integration: For clients with hourly employees, direct integration with time tracking solutions e.g., TSheets, When I Work, Homebase is a must.
  • Automated import of hours worked directly into payroll
  • Accurate calculation of overtime, breaks, and paid time off PTO
  • Streamlined approval workflows
• HRIS and Benefits Integration: As firms take on more comprehensive client advisory roles, integrating with Human Resources Information Systems HRIS or benefits administration platforms becomes crucial.
  • Employee data synchronization onboarding, offboarding
  • Automated deduction of benefits premiums health, dental, 401k
  • Centralized employee records for easier management.

Top Contenders: A Deep Dive into Leading Payroll Solutions

While many payroll solutions exist, a few consistently rise to the top for their robust features, scalability, and accountant-centric design.

We’re looking for tools that empower, not just process.

Gusto: The Accountant’s Darling for Small Businesses

Gusto has carved out a strong niche with accountants serving small to medium-sized businesses due to its intuitive interface and comprehensive offerings. Adp pricing for small business

It’s often praised for its simplicity and automation.

• Key Features:
  • Full-service payroll: Calculates, files, and pays federal, state, and local taxes automatically.
  • Unlimited payroll runs: Pay employees as often as needed without extra fees.
  • New hire reporting: Automatically submits new hire reports to the government.
  • Employee self-service: Employees can access pay stubs, W-2s, and manage personal information.
  • Benefits administration: Offers integrated health insurance, 401k, and workers’ comp directly through the platform.
  • Accountant partner program: Provides dedicated support, discounted pricing, and a centralized dashboard for managing multiple clients.
• Why Accountants Love It: Its ease of use means less time spent on training clients, and its automation features reduce manual tasks significantly. Gusto’s transparent pricing and strong compliance features make it a reliable choice.
• Potential Drawbacks: While excellent for SMBs, it might lack some of the advanced functionalities needed for very large enterprises or highly complex union payrolls.
• Real Data Point: As of early 2023, Gusto serves over 300,000 businesses across the U.S., a testament to its popularity, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises and the accountants who serve them.

QuickBooks Payroll: Seamless Integration for QBO Users

For accounting firms whose primary platform is QuickBooks Online, QuickBooks Payroll often presents the most natural and seamless integration, making it a strong contender for efficiency.

*   Deep QBO integration: Automatically syncs payroll data with the QuickBooks General Ledger, reducing data entry errors and saving time.
*   Full-service tax and compliance: Handles federal and state tax filings, direct deposit, and year-end forms W-2s, 1099s.
*   Automated payroll runs: Set up automated payroll runs based on your clients' pay schedules.
*   Workers' Comp administration: Helps businesses find and manage workers' compensation insurance.
*   Access to HR support: Higher tiers offer access to HR advisors for guidance on employee relations, compliance, and more.

• Why Accountants Love It: The primary advantage is the unrivaled integration with QuickBooks Online. If your clients are already on QBO, this eliminates many headaches associated with data transfer and reconciliation. It’s an all-in-one solution for many small businesses.
• Potential Drawbacks: While strong for QBO users, its standalone features might not be as robust or flexible as dedicated payroll providers if clients are using other accounting software. Pricing can also escalate quickly with added features.
• Real Data Point: Intuit, the parent company of QuickBooks, reported over 7.7 million QuickBooks Online subscribers worldwide as of early 2023, many of whom utilize or could benefit from their integrated payroll services.

ADP Workforce Now: Enterprise-Grade Power for Growth

ADP is a giant in the payroll and HR space, and Workforce Now is their flagship solution for mid-sized to large businesses.

Accountants working with larger clients will find its comprehensive features invaluable.

*   Comprehensive HR management: Beyond payroll, it offers robust HR functionalities including talent acquisition, time and attendance, benefits administration, and performance management.
*   Advanced reporting and analytics: Powerful tools for custom reports, labor cost analysis, and compliance reporting.
*   Scalability: Designed to handle complex organizational structures, multiple entities, and large employee counts.
*   Dedicated support: Offers dedicated support teams and account managers, which can be critical for larger clients.
*   Global capabilities: For clients with international operations, ADP offers solutions that cater to global payroll complexities.

• Why Accountants Love It: For larger, more complex clients, ADP provides unparalleled depth and breadth of features. Its ability to handle intricate compliance, union contracts, and robust HR needs makes it a go-to for enterprise-level engagements. The peace of mind that comes with ADP’s established reputation is significant.
• Potential Drawbacks: Can be more expensive and complex to set up than solutions for smaller businesses. The interface can be less intuitive for first-time users compared to SMB-focused platforms.
• Real Data Point: ADP processes payroll for over 900,000 clients worldwide, representing a significant portion of the global workforce, underscoring its massive scale and reliability.

Paychex Flex: Versatility and Scalability for Diverse Clients

Paychex Flex offers a broad range of services, from basic payroll to comprehensive HR solutions, making it suitable for accounting firms serving a diverse client base, from startups to growing enterprises. Simple payroll service

*   Flexible service tiers: Offers various packages, allowing accountants to match client needs precisely, from self-service options to fully managed payroll.
*   HR solutions: Integrates HR services, including employee handbooks, onboarding, and compliance assistance.
*   Time and attendance: Robust time tracking solutions that integrate directly with payroll.
*   Employee benefits administration: Assistance with health insurance, retirement plans, and other benefits.
*   Dedicated payroll specialist: Many plans offer a dedicated specialist for direct support and guidance.
*   Analytics and reporting: Provides detailed payroll, tax, and HR reports.

• Why Accountants Love It: Paychex’s versatility means it can grow with clients. Its range of service levels makes it adaptable, and the availability of a dedicated payroll specialist is a major plus for busy accountants who need quick answers and personalized support.
• Potential Drawbacks: Pricing can be less transparent and may vary significantly based on the chosen services and employee count. Some users report that the interface, while powerful, can have a steeper learning curve than simpler platforms.
• Real Data Point: Paychex serves approximately 740,000 payroll clients in the U.S. and Europe, highlighting its extensive reach across various business sizes and industries.

Patriot Payroll: The Budget-Friendly, Accountant-Friendly Option

Patriot Payroll stands out as a highly affordable yet surprisingly robust option, particularly appealing to accountants working with budget-conscious small business clients who still require full-service capabilities.

*   Affordable pricing: One of the most competitively priced full-service payroll solutions on the market.
*   Full-service payroll: Includes tax filings federal, state, local, direct deposit, and W-2/1099 preparation.
*   Simple user interface: Designed for ease of use, making it simple for both accountants and clients to navigate.
*   Free direct deposit: No extra charge for direct deposit, which is a common add-on fee with other providers.
*   Time and attendance add-on: Seamlessly integrates with their own time tracking module.
*   Accountant-specific features: Offers a client management dashboard for accountants to manage multiple client payrolls efficiently.

• Why Accountants Love It: Its affordability combined with full-service features makes it an excellent value proposition for small business clients. For accountants, the straightforward interface and dedicated accountant tools simplify management. It’s ideal for those seeking a no-frills, reliable option.
• Potential Drawbacks: While it covers core payroll needs excellently, it may not offer the same depth of HR features or extensive integrations as larger, more expensive platforms like ADP or Paychex.
• Real Data Point: Patriot Software boasts a high customer satisfaction rate, with many reviews highlighting its excellent customer service and user-friendly platform, supporting its value proposition for small businesses.

Essential Features for Accountant Payroll Software

Beyond the general capabilities, specific features are critical for accountants to efficiently manage client payroll.

These are the tools that transform a good system into a great one.

Reporting and Analytics: Unlocking Insights

Payroll data is a goldmine for insights, but only if your software can extract and present it effectively.

Comprehensive reporting is not just about compliance. it’s about strategic advice. Adp payroll setup

• Customizable Reports: The ability to generate reports tailored to specific client needs or internal analysis is crucial. This includes:
  • Payroll summaries by department or cost center
  • Tax liability reports
  • PTO accrual and usage reports
  • Worker’s compensation audit reports
  • General ledger export reports in various formats CSV, PDF, Excel
• Historical Data Access: Easy access to historical payroll data, tax filings, and employee records is essential for audits, compliance checks, and client inquiries.
• Trend Analysis: Advanced reporting can help identify trends in labor costs, overtime usage, and absenteeism, allowing accountants to provide strategic guidance to clients.
  • For example, analyzing overtime trends might reveal inefficiencies in scheduling that, if corrected, could save a client 10-15% on their labor costs annually.

Security and Data Privacy: Protecting Sensitive Information

Payroll involves highly sensitive employee and financial data. Robust security measures are non-negotiable.

• Encryption: All data, both in transit and at rest, must be encrypted using industry-standard protocols e.g., AES-256, TLS 1.2.
• Multi-Factor Authentication MFA: Mandatory MFA for all users, especially accountants accessing client data, adds a critical layer of security against unauthorized access.
• Regular Security Audits and Compliance: The provider should undergo regular third-party security audits e.g., SOC 2 Type 2 and comply with data privacy regulations e.g., GDPR, CCPA, state-specific privacy laws.
• Access Control and Permissions: Granular control over user permissions, allowing accountants to grant clients or their internal staff appropriate levels of access without compromising sensitive data.

Scalability and Flexibility: Growing with Your Clients

An accounting firm’s client base evolves, and so do their payroll needs.

The software must be able to scale up or down without requiring a complete system overhaul.

• Support for Varying Employee Counts: From a single proprietor to hundreds of employees, the software should handle different business sizes effortlessly.
• Handling Diverse Pay Structures: Ability to manage hourly, salaried, commission-based, and contractor payments, along with complex deductions and benefits.
• Multi-Client Management Dashboard: For accountants, a centralized dashboard that provides an overview of all client payrolls, upcoming deadlines, and statuses is invaluable for efficient practice management.
  • A well-designed multi-client dashboard can reduce the time spent on administrative tasks by up to 20% for accounting firms, allowing more focus on advisory services.
• Add-on Modules and Customization: The option to add modules e.g., time tracking, HR, benefits as clients grow or their needs change, without forcing them into a completely new system.

The Accountant’s Workflow: Optimizing Payroll Processes

The best software is only as good as the processes built around it.

Accountants need to integrate payroll solutions into a streamlined workflow that maximizes efficiency and minimizes errors. Hr help for small business

Onboarding New Clients and Employees

A smooth onboarding process for both new clients and their employees is critical for setting up payroll correctly from the start.

• Automated Client Setup: The ability to quickly set up a new client, import their existing employee data, and configure their specific payroll rules pay schedules, deductions, benefits.
• Employee Self-Onboarding: Allowing new employees to securely enter their personal information, banking details, and tax withholding preferences directly into the system reduces administrative burden and data entry errors.
• Initial Data Migration: For clients switching payroll providers, the software should offer tools or support for migrating historical payroll data, year-to-date figures, and employee records accurately.

Managing Payroll Runs and Approvals

Efficiency during the actual payroll run is paramount.

The software should facilitate a clear, auditable workflow.

• Automated Reminders and Checklists: Automated notifications for upcoming payrolls, tax deadlines, and required approvals ensure nothing falls through the cracks.
• Review and Approval Workflows: A system that allows clients to review and approve payroll before submission, providing an audit trail for accountability.
• Batch Processing vs. Individual Runs: The flexibility to process payroll for all clients in batches or handle individual runs as needed, especially for off-cycle payments.
• Error Detection and Alerts: Proactive alerts for potential errors e.g., missing timesheets, unusual salary changes, exceeding overtime limits help catch issues before they become problems.

Year-End Processing and Tax Forms

The year-end period is often the most stressful.

The right software transforms it into a smooth, efficient process. Payroll services cost

• Automated W-2 and 1099 Generation: The software should automatically generate and distribute W-2s for employees and 1099s for contractors, either physically or electronically.
• E-Filing Capabilities: Direct e-filing of all required year-end tax forms e.g., W-3, 940, state unemployment reports to the relevant tax authorities.
• Year-End Reconciliation Reports: Comprehensive reports that summarize annual wages, taxes withheld, and deductions to assist with reconciliation and financial statement preparation.
• Historical Access to Forms: Easy access to all historical W-2s, 1099s, and tax filings for both current and past employees/contractors, important for employee requests or audits.

Considerations for Specific Accounting Firm Needs

Not all accounting firms are alike.

Specialized needs demand specialized features or approaches.

For Small Practices and Solo Accountants

Simplicity, affordability, and a low learning curve are key.

• Ease of Use: A user-friendly interface that doesn’t require extensive training to master. Time is money, especially for solo practitioners.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Transparent pricing models that fit within a tight budget, often per-employee fees or tiered subscriptions.
• Minimal Setup: Solutions that can be quickly implemented without complex configurations.
• Focus on Core Payroll: While integrations are good, the priority is accurate and compliant core payroll processing.
  • Patriot Payroll and Gusto’s Core plan are often ideal for this segment.

For Mid-Sized and Growing Firms

Scalability, robust integrations, and dedicated accountant support become more important.

• Comprehensive Client Dashboard: The ability to manage dozens or hundreds of clients efficiently from a single portal.
• Advanced Reporting: More detailed and customizable reporting options to serve diverse client industries and needs.
• Multiple Integration Points: Compatibility with a wider range of accounting, HRIS, and time-tracking systems.
• Dedicated Accountant Support: Access to a knowledgeable support team that understands the nuances of accounting practice and client management.
  • Gusto’s Partner Program and Paychex Flex with their higher service tiers are well-suited here.

For Large Firms and Enterprise Services

Deep customization, global capabilities, and complex HR/compliance features are essential. Best payroll system

• Highly Configurable: Software that can be tailored to complex union contracts, international payrolls, and multi-entity structures.
• Advanced HR and Benefits: Comprehensive HRIS capabilities, benefits administration, and talent management features integrated with payroll.
• Robust Security and Audit Trails: Enterprise-grade security protocols, detailed audit logs, and compliance certifications.
• Dedicated Account Management: A dedicated team from the software provider to assist with implementation, ongoing support, and strategic planning.
  • ADP Workforce Now and Paychex Enterprise Solutions are primary choices for this segment.

The Future of Payroll for Accountants: Trends and Innovations

Accountants need to stay ahead of the curve to remain competitive and deliver maximum value.

AI and Automation: The Efficiency Multiplier

Artificial intelligence and advanced automation are poised to revolutionize payroll, freeing accountants from repetitive tasks.

• Predictive Analytics for Compliance: AI could help predict potential compliance issues based on historical data and upcoming regulatory changes.
• Automated Anomaly Detection: AI algorithms can flag unusual transactions, potential fraud, or significant deviations in payroll data for review, enhancing accuracy and security.
• Enhanced Self-Service: AI-powered chatbots or virtual assistants can help employees answer common payroll questions, reducing direct inquiries to accountants.
• Smart Data Entry: Using AI to interpret and automate data entry from various sources e.g., timesheets, expense reports even further.
  • A 2023 report by Gartner predicts that by 2025, 50% of manual data entry tasks in financial processes will be automated by AI and RPA Robotic Process Automation.

Real-Time Payroll and On-Demand Pay

The traditional bi-weekly or monthly pay cycle is being challenged by the demand for more immediate access to earned wages.

• Real-Time Calculations: Software capable of calculating gross-to-net pay and tax liabilities in real-time as data is entered or updated.
• On-Demand Pay Integration: The ability for employees to access a portion of their earned wages before the official payday, integrating seamlessly with the payroll system for proper tracking and deductions.
• Continuous Payroll Processing: Moving away from batch processing to a more continuous model where payroll is always “running,” allowing for greater flexibility.

Enhanced Data Security and Blockchain

As data breaches become more sophisticated, so must the security measures employed by payroll software.

• Zero-Trust Security Models: Implementing security protocols where every access request is verified, regardless of whether it originates inside or outside the network.
• Blockchain for Data Integrity: While still nascent in payroll, blockchain technology could potentially offer immutable and transparent records of payroll transactions, enhancing security and auditability.
• Biometric Authentication: Increased use of biometric data fingerprint, facial recognition for secure access to sensitive payroll data, beyond traditional MFA.

Making the Final Decision: A Strategic Approach

Choosing the best payroll software isn’t just about features. Top global payroll providers

It’s about making a strategic decision that aligns with your firm’s growth trajectory and your clients’ diverse needs.

Trial Periods and Demos: Hands-On Experience

Never commit to a solution without experiencing it firsthand.

• Request Demos: Schedule personalized demos with sales representatives to see the software in action and ask targeted questions relevant to your practice.
• Utilize Free Trials: Take advantage of free trial periods to put the software through its paces with real or simulated client data.
• Test Key Workflows: Focus on testing the core functionalities you will use most:
  • New client setup
  • Running a typical payroll
  • Generating common reports
  • Handling year-end forms

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Beyond the Sticker Price

The true cost of payroll software extends beyond the monthly subscription fee.

• Pricing Models: Understand if pricing is per-employee, per-payroll run, or tiered. Look for hidden fees for direct deposit, tax filing, or year-end forms.
• Time Savings: Quantify the time saved on manual data entry, reconciliation, and compliance tasks. If a software saves you 5 hours per client per month, what’s that worth?
  • For an accounting firm managing 50 clients, saving just 5 hours per client could free up 250 hours per month, allowing for significant capacity for growth or higher-value advisory services.
• Error Reduction: The cost of correcting payroll errors, dealing with tax penalties, and potential client dissatisfaction can be substantial. Investing in robust software mitigates these risks.
• Client Satisfaction: Happier clients, fewer headaches, and the ability to offer more comprehensive services contribute to client retention and new business.

Support and Training: Your Lifeline

Even the most intuitive software will require support and ongoing education.

• Support Channels: Evaluate the availability of support channels phone, email, chat, their hours of operation, and response times.
• Dedicated Account Manager/Partner Support: For larger firms, a dedicated contact can be invaluable for resolving complex issues and providing strategic guidance.
• Training Resources: Look for comprehensive knowledge bases, video tutorials, webinars, and certification programs that can help your team quickly become proficient users.
• Community and Forums: An active user community or forum can be a great resource for peer advice and quick troubleshooting.

Ultimately, the “best” payroll software for your accounting firm will be the one that acts as a true partner, not just a vendor. Payroll software for payroll service providers

It should reduce your administrative burden, enhance your compliance posture, and free you up to provide more strategic, high-value advice to your clients. Choose wisely, and watch your practice thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best overall payroll software for accountants?

The “best” truly depends on the specific needs of an accounting firm and its client base. For small to mid-sized businesses, Gusto and QuickBooks Payroll are top contenders due to ease of use and integration. For larger, more complex clients, ADP Workforce Now and Paychex Flex offer comprehensive solutions.

Why is payroll software important for accounting firms?

Payroll software is crucial for accounting firms because it automates complex tax calculations, ensures compliance with ever-changing regulations, reduces manual data entry and errors, saves significant time, and allows accountants to offer a high-value service to their clients.

Can payroll software help with tax compliance?

Yes, robust payroll software is designed to automatically calculate, withhold, and file federal, state, and local payroll taxes.

It also generates and helps e-file year-end forms like W-2s and 1099s, significantly reducing the risk of penalties and ensuring compliance. Low cost payroll services for small business

How does payroll software integrate with accounting software?

Most leading payroll software solutions offer seamless integration with popular accounting platforms like QuickBooks Online, Xero, and Sage.

This integration typically involves automatic journal entries of payroll expenses into the general ledger, real-time data synchronization, and reduced manual reconciliation.

What features should accountants look for in payroll software?

Accountants should prioritize features such as full-service tax filing and payments, robust integration capabilities with accounting, HRIS, and time tracking software, customizable reporting, strong security and data privacy measures including MFA, scalability, and dedicated accountant-specific tools like multi-client dashboards.

Is Gusto good for accounting firms?

Yes, Gusto is highly regarded by accounting firms, particularly those serving small to medium-sized businesses.

Its intuitive interface, comprehensive automation, benefits administration, and strong accountant partner program make it a popular choice. Stand alone payroll software

Is QuickBooks Payroll suitable for accountants?

Yes, QuickBooks Payroll is an excellent choice for accounting firms whose clients predominantly use QuickBooks Online.

Its deep, native integration simplifies data flow, reconciliation, and overall workflow for QBO users.

When should an accounting firm consider ADP or Paychex?

Accounting firms should consider ADP Workforce Now or Paychex Flex when serving mid-sized to large clients with complex payroll needs, such as multiple entities, complex benefits, advanced HR requirements, or a high volume of employees.

These providers offer enterprise-grade scalability and comprehensive services.

What are the benefits of a dedicated accountant partner program?

Dedicated accountant partner programs offered by Gusto, Paychex, etc. provide benefits such as discounted pricing for clients, centralized dashboards for managing multiple client accounts, priority support, and specialized training, all designed to streamline an accounting firm’s operations. Adp business

Can payroll software handle different pay frequencies weekly, bi-weekly, monthly?

Yes, all reputable payroll software solutions allow you to set up and manage various pay frequencies, including weekly, bi-weekly, semi-monthly, and monthly, to accommodate different client needs.

How important is employee self-service in payroll software?

Employee self-service is very important.

It empowers employees to view pay stubs, W-2s, and manage personal information independently, significantly reducing inquiries to HR or accounting staff and enhancing overall efficiency.

What security measures should payroll software have?

Key security measures include data encryption in transit and at rest, multi-factor authentication MFA, regular third-party security audits e.g., SOC 2 Type 2 compliance, granular access controls, and adherence to data privacy regulations.

Does payroll software help with year-end processing?

Yes, a primary benefit of payroll software is simplifying year-end processing. Easy payroll software for small business

It automates the generation and distribution of W-2s and 1099s, facilitates e-filing with tax authorities, and provides comprehensive year-end reconciliation reports.

Can payroll software manage benefits deductions?

Yes, most comprehensive payroll software solutions can manage various benefits deductions, including health insurance premiums, 401k contributions, FSA/HSA deductions, and other voluntary deductions, automatically integrating them into each pay run.

Is it possible to run unlimited payrolls with this software?

Many top-tier payroll software providers, including Gusto, offer unlimited payroll runs, meaning you can process payroll as often as needed without incurring additional fees beyond your base subscription.

What is the typical pricing model for payroll software for accountants?

Pricing models vary.

Common models include per-employee per month, tiered pricing based on features or employee count, or a base fee plus per-employee charges. Payroll for small business with 1 employee

Accountants often receive special partner pricing or volume discounts.

How does payroll software help with time tracking?

Many payroll software solutions offer integrated time tracking modules or seamlessly integrate with third-party time tracking apps.

This allows for the automatic import of hours worked directly into the payroll system, ensuring accurate calculation of wages, overtime, and PTO.

Can payroll software help with HR compliance?

While primarily focused on payroll, many solutions, especially those from larger providers like ADP and Paychex, include HR features that help with compliance, such as new hire reporting, access to HR advisors, and assistance with labor law posters and employee handbooks.

What are the disadvantages of not using dedicated payroll software?

Not using dedicated payroll software can lead to increased manual errors, significant time consumption for calculations and filings, higher risk of non-compliance and penalties, lack of robust reporting, and greater administrative burden, ultimately impacting efficiency and client satisfaction. Freshbooks payroll

How often do payroll software providers update their systems for tax law changes?

Reputable payroll software providers continuously monitor tax law changes at federal, state, and local levels.

They typically push out automatic updates to their systems proactively to ensure compliance well before new regulations take effect, minimizing manual adjustments for accountants.