Best payroll program for small business

If you’re running a small business, nailing down the “best” payroll program isn’t just about picking software. it’s about optimizing a core operation that impacts your team’s livelihood and your company’s compliance. The direct answer is there isn’t one single “best” program for everyone, as the ideal choice hinges on your specific business size, industry, complexity of payroll needs, and budget. However, top contenders like Gusto, QuickBooks Payroll, and OnPay consistently rank high for their user-friendliness, robust features, and scalability for small to medium-sized businesses. These platforms streamline everything from direct deposits and tax filings to benefits administration, freeing you up to focus on growth rather than getting bogged down in administrative tasks. Engaging with the right payroll solution can save countless hours, prevent costly errors, and ensure your team is paid accurately and on time, every time.

Unpacking the Essentials: What Makes a Payroll Program “Best” for Small Businesses?

When you’re hunting for the “best” payroll program, it’s less about a magic bullet and more about aligning features with your unique business rhythm.

Think of it like picking the right tool for a specific job: you wouldn’t use a hammer to tighten a screw.

The “best” one is the one that fits your needs perfectly, simplifies your life, and keeps you compliant without breaking the bank.

Core Features You Can’t Live Without

Before you even look at pricing, make sure the essentials are covered.

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These are non-negotiables for any small business serious about efficient payroll. Workful plans

• Automated Payroll Runs: This is where the magic happens. A great system should allow you to set it and forget it. Think about auto-calculating wages, deductions, and withholdings. According to a 2023 survey by the American Payroll Association, automated payroll processing reduces errors by as much as 80% compared to manual methods.
• Direct Deposit & Check Printing: While direct deposit is standard, some employees might still prefer checks. Ensure the program handles both seamlessly. Over 93% of employees in the U.S. use direct deposit, making it a critical feature for employee satisfaction.
• Tax Filing & Compliance: This is huge. The program should automatically calculate, file, and remit federal, state, and local payroll taxes 941s, 940s, W-2s, etc.. Penalties for payroll tax errors can range from 2% to 15% of the underpayment, so robust tax compliance is a must.
• New Hire Reporting: Many states require new hire reporting within a few days of employment. The software should automate this to keep you compliant.

Beyond the Basics: Features That Elevate Your Payroll

Once the core is covered, look for features that add significant value and simplify more complex HR tasks.

These are what differentiate a good program from a truly great one.

• Employee Self-Service Portal: Empower your employees to view pay stubs, update personal information, and access tax documents. This significantly reduces administrative burden on your end. A Gallup poll found that companies with engaged employees see 21% higher profitability, and self-service tools contribute to that engagement.
• Benefits Administration Integration: If you offer health insurance, 401ks, or other benefits, seamless integration with payroll saves immense time. It ensures deductions are accurate and synced.
• Time Tracking Integration: For hourly employees, integrated time tracking prevents manual data entry errors and ensures precise payroll calculations. Businesses using integrated time tracking systems report up to a 5% reduction in payroll processing time.
• Reporting & Analytics: Robust reporting can help you track labor costs, identify trends, and make informed business decisions. Look for customizable reports on wages, taxes, and deductions.

Deep Dive into Top Contenders: Who’s Leading the Small Business Payroll Race?

When you cut through the marketing noise, a few names consistently rise to the top for small businesses.

These platforms have earned their stripes through reliability, user experience, and comprehensive feature sets.

Gusto: The User-Friendly Powerhouse

Gusto is a fan favorite for a reason. Hr and payroll software uk

It strikes an excellent balance between ease of use and powerful features, making it incredibly appealing for businesses new to automated payroll or those looking for a truly intuitive experience.

• Why Gusto Shines:

  • Intuitive Interface: Gusto’s dashboard is famously clean and easy to navigate, minimizing the learning curve.
  • Full-Service Payroll: Handles all federal, state, and local tax filings automatically. They also guarantee tax compliance.
  • Employee Self-Service: Provides a robust portal for employees to manage their own data, view pay stubs, and even onboard.
  • HR Features: Offers more than just payroll, including benefits administration, workers’ comp, and HR compliance resources. About 70% of Gusto users leverage its HR features in addition to payroll.
  • Pricing: Transparent, tiered pricing models that scale with your business. Their simple pricing structure is often cited as a major draw for small businesses.

• Potential Considerations:

  • While comprehensive, some very niche industry requirements might need custom solutions.
  • Their customer support is highly rated but primarily online, which might not suit everyone who prefers phone-only support.

QuickBooks Payroll: Seamless Accounting Integration

If you’re already using QuickBooks for your accounting, QuickBooks Payroll is often the most logical and efficient choice.

The seamless integration can be a massive time-saver and prevent data discrepancies. Workful payroll fees

• Why QuickBooks Payroll Excels:

  • Native Integration with QuickBooks Accounting: This is its biggest strength. Data flows effortlessly between payroll and your general ledger, reducing manual entry and errors. A study by Intuit found that businesses using integrated QuickBooks solutions save an average of 40 hours per month on financial tasks.

  • Multiple Plans: Offers various tiers Core, Premium, Elite to match different business needs and budgets, from basic payroll to advanced HR support.

  • Tax Penalties Protection: Some higher-tier plans offer coverage for tax penalties if Intuit makes an error, providing peace of mind.

  • Time Tracking: Built-in time tracking features in higher tiers simplify payroll for hourly employees.

  • Can be more expensive than some standalone payroll solutions, especially for higher tiers. Best online payroll

  • The interface can feel a bit more cluttered than Gusto’s for users who aren’t already familiar with QuickBooks products.

OnPay: The Comprehensive & Affordable Contender

OnPay often flies under the radar compared to the giants, but it consistently delivers exceptional value, especially for small to medium-sized businesses looking for comprehensive features without a hefty price tag.

• Why OnPay Stands Out:

  • Single, Transparent Pricing: Offers one main pricing plan that includes all features, eliminating hidden costs or complex tier decisions. This simplicity is a major draw for budget-conscious small businesses.

  • Full-Service Payroll & Tax Filings: Handles all federal, state, and local payroll taxes and filings, including W-2s and 1099s.

  • HR & Benefits Management: Offers robust HR features like onboarding workflows, document management, and benefits integrations, rivalling more expensive platforms. Over 85% of OnPay users utilize its HR tools. Payroll software that integrates with quickbooks desktop

  • Excellent Customer Service: Consistently receives high marks for responsive and knowledgeable U.S.-based customer support.

  • Pay-as-You-Go Workers’ Comp: Integrates with partners to offer pay-as-you-go workers’ compensation, helping manage cash flow.

  • While excellent, its brand recognition isn’t as widespread as Gusto or QuickBooks, though its quality speaks for itself.

  • The user interface is solid but might not be as “modern” feeling as Gusto’s for some users.

Navigating Niche Needs: When Standard Solutions Aren’t Enough

While Gusto, QuickBooks, and OnPay cover the vast majority of small business payroll needs, some industries or unique business structures might require a more specialized approach. Don’t force a square peg into a round hole. Payroll companies nyc

Payroll for Highly Regulated Industries

Certain sectors, like healthcare, construction, or non-profits, often have unique compliance requirements, union payroll, or grant tracking needs.

• Certified Payroll: For government contractors, certified payroll Davis-Bacon Act is a must. Some payroll providers specialize in this, automatically generating and submitting forms like WH-347. Look for providers that explicitly state support for certified payroll and prevailing wage rates.
• Union Dues & Benefits: If your business has unionized employees, the payroll system needs to accurately track and remit union dues, benefit contributions, and other specific deductions.
• Industry-Specific Reporting: Healthcare might require detailed tracking of specific certifications or licenses tied to payroll. Non-profits might need to track payroll against grant funding.

Managing 1099 Contractors vs. W-2 Employees

Many small businesses rely heavily on independent contractors 1099s. Your payroll program should easily distinguish between the two and handle the unique tax reporting for each.

• Automated 1099 Filings: The software should generate and file 1099-NEC forms for your contractors at year-end. This is often a separate module or included in higher-tier plans.
• Payment Processing for Contractors: While not strictly “payroll,” the system should facilitate easy and organized payments to your 1099s, often via direct deposit.
• Misclassification Risk Mitigation: While software can’t guarantee classification, a good system will allow you to clearly define and manage contractor payments separately, helping reduce the risk of misclassification penalties from the IRS, which can be substantial. The IRS estimates that up to 30% of businesses misclassify employees, leading to billions in unpaid taxes and penalties.

Multi-State Payroll & Remote Teams

The rise of remote work means many small businesses now have employees in multiple states, each with different tax laws and reporting requirements.

• State Tax Registration & Filings: The payroll program must be capable of handling payroll taxes for all states where your employees reside and work, including state unemployment insurance SUI and local taxes. Some providers offer services to help you register in new states.
• Nexus Tracking: While primarily an accounting concern, understanding where you have payroll nexus a significant presence creating tax obligations is crucial. A good payroll system supports this complexity.
• Remote Employee Onboarding: Features that streamline onboarding for remote hires, including state-specific new hire paperwork, are invaluable.

Cost Considerations: Balancing Features with Your Budget

Let’s be real: budget matters.

Payroll programs range from surprisingly affordable to premium services. Payroll programs free

Understanding the pricing models and what’s included is key to finding the best fit without overspending.

Understanding Pricing Models

Most payroll programs use one of two primary pricing structures:

• Per-Employee, Per-Month PEPM: This is the most common model. You pay a base fee for the software, plus an additional fee for each active employee paid during the month. For example, a base fee of $40/month plus $6/employee/month. This model is very scalable for growing businesses.
• Tiered Pricing: Some providers offer different plans e.g., Basic, Standard, Premium with varying feature sets at different price points. As you move up the tiers, you unlock more features like HR support, time tracking, or tax penalty protection.

Hidden Fees & Add-ons to Watch For

Always read the fine print.

What looks like a great deal upfront can accumulate hidden costs.

• Setup Fees: Some providers charge a one-time fee to set up your account and transfer historical data.
• Year-End Fees: Fees for W-2 or 1099 printing and filing can sometimes be separate.
• Off-Cycle Payroll Runs: If you need to run payroll outside your regular schedule, some providers might charge an extra fee.
• HR Add-ons: While some HR features are included, more advanced services like HR advising or compliance audits might be separate, higher-cost add-ons.
• Integration Fees: Although less common now, some older systems might charge for integrations with accounting software or time tracking.

ROI: When is an Investment Worth It?

While cost is important, think about the return on investment ROI. A slightly more expensive program might save you significantly more time and prevent costly errors, ultimately saving you money in the long run. Cost of workful payroll

• Time Savings: How much is your time, or your bookkeeper’s time, worth? Automating payroll can save dozens of hours per month. For a small business owner earning $50/hour, saving 10 hours a month means $500 in value.
• Penalty Avoidance: The cost of non-compliance late filings, incorrect tax payments can be far greater than the software’s monthly fee. The IRS issued over $5.7 billion in payroll tax penalties in 2022.
• Employee Satisfaction: Accurate and on-time pay boosts morale and retention. The cost of employee turnover can be 1.5-2 times an employee’s annual salary. A good payroll system contributes to employee satisfaction.

Implementation & Support: Making the Switch Smoothly

Choosing the right software is only half the battle.

Successfully implementing it and getting the right support when you need it are equally crucial.

Data Migration and Setup

Moving from manual processes or an old system can seem daunting, but a good provider will offer tools or assistance.

• Historical Data Entry: You’ll need to input employee historical pay data YTD earnings, taxes withheld for accurate year-end reporting. Some systems offer guided setup or even services to help with this.
• Onboarding Employees: The best systems make it easy to invite employees to self-onboard, input their banking details, and sign necessary forms electronically. This saves you from tedious data entry.
• Payroll Schedule Configuration: Setting up your pay frequencies weekly, bi-weekly, semi-monthly, monthly and pay periods correctly is fundamental.

Customer Support: Your Lifeline

Even the most intuitive software can present questions.

Responsive and knowledgeable customer support is vital. Payroll outsourcing companies canada

• Availability: Check their support hours. Do they align with your working hours? Do they offer weekend support if you process payroll then?
• Channels: Do they offer phone, email, chat, or a robust knowledge base? A mix of options is ideal.
• Expertise: Is the support staff knowledgeable about payroll taxes and regulations, or just software functions? Look for payroll specialists. User reviews often highlight the quality of customer support as a key differentiator.

Integrations and Ecosystem

Payroll doesn’t operate in a vacuum.

It needs to connect with your other business tools.

• Accounting Software: Seamless integration with your accounting software QuickBooks, Xero, FreshBooks is paramount for accurate financial reporting. This prevents manual data entry and reconciliation issues.
• Time Tracking Software: If you use a separate time tracking system e.g., When I Work, Homebase, ensure it integrates directly or via API to automatically pull hours into payroll.
• HRIS/Benefits Platforms: For larger small businesses, integration with human resources information systems HRIS or benefits brokers simplifies data flow.
• Custom Integrations: Some providers offer APIs for developers if you have highly customized internal systems.

Ensuring Compliance: Staying on the Right Side of the Law

Payroll compliance is a non-negotiable.

The IRS and state tax agencies don’t mess around, and penalties for errors or late filings can cripple a small business.

Your payroll program should be your compliance co-pilot. Remote payroll services

Federal Payroll Tax Obligations

These are the big ones that apply to almost every employer in the U.S.

Your payroll system should handle these automatically.

• Social Security and Medicare Taxes FICA: Employers and employees each pay a share. The software should correctly calculate and withhold these.
• Federal Income Tax Withholding: Based on employee W-4 forms, the system must accurately withhold federal income tax.
• Federal Unemployment Tax Act FUTA: Employers pay FUTA taxes to fund unemployment benefits. The software should track this.
• Form 941 & 940 Filings: The program should prepare and e-file your quarterly Form 941 Employer’s Quarterly Federal Tax Return and annual Form 940 Employer’s Annual Federal Unemployment FUTA Tax Return.
• W-2s and W-3: At year-end, the system must generate and file W-2 Wage and Tax Statements for employees and the W-3 Transmittal of Wage and Tax Statements.

State and Local Tax Compliance

This is where it gets complex, as laws vary significantly by state and even locality. A robust payroll program simplifies this maze.

• State Income Tax Withholding: Some states have no income tax, others have flat rates, and many have progressive rates. The system must adapt to each state where you have employees.
• State Unemployment Insurance SUI: Each state has its own SUI rates and reporting requirements. Your software should handle these filings e.g., quarterly wage reports. SUI rates can range from less than 1% to over 10% based on employer experience ratings.
• Local Taxes: Some cities or counties have their own income taxes, wage taxes, or local services taxes. The payroll program should identify and handle these.
• New Hire Reporting: Most states require employers to report new hires to a state agency within a few days of their start date. The best payroll systems automate this crucial step.

Beyond Taxes: Wage & Hour Laws

Compliance isn’t just about taxes.

Fair Labor Standards Act FLSA and state wage and hour laws are equally critical. Best employee payroll software

• Minimum Wage: The system should prevent paying below federal or state minimum wage, whichever is higher. As of 2024, the federal minimum wage is $7.25, but many states have significantly higher rates e.g., California is $16.00.
• Overtime Calculations: Accurate calculation of overtime pay time and a half for hours over 40 in a workweek for non-exempt employees is a must. The payroll software should automate this based on tracked hours.
• Record Keeping: Employers are required to maintain detailed payroll records for several years. A good payroll system stores this data securely and makes it easily retrievable for audits.
• Garnishments and Deductions: The system should handle various deductions like child support garnishments, wage attachments, and voluntary deductions e.g., retirement contributions, health insurance premiums correctly and in compliance with legal requirements.

The Future of Payroll: Trends to Watch for Small Businesses

Payroll technology isn’t static.

Staying aware of emerging trends can help you future-proof your operations and leverage new efficiencies.

AI and Automation

Artificial intelligence and advanced automation are already changing how payroll operates, moving beyond just calculations.

• Predictive Analytics: AI can help analyze past payroll data to predict future labor costs, identify potential compliance risks, or even flag unusual payment patterns that might indicate fraud.
• Enhanced Error Detection: AI algorithms can spot anomalies in data entry or payroll runs that might be missed by traditional rules-based systems, leading to fewer errors and less rework.
• Automated Compliance Updates: AI-powered systems can potentially track changes in tax laws and regulations in real-time, automatically updating calculations and forms without manual intervention from the software provider or user.

On-Demand Pay and Flexible Pay Periods

The traditional bi-weekly or semi-monthly pay cycle is facing disruption as employees seek more financial flexibility.

• Earned Wage Access EWA: Also known as “on-demand pay,” this allows employees to access a portion of their earned wages before their official payday. Some payroll providers are integrating with EWA platforms, which can significantly boost employee financial wellness and retention. A recent survey showed that 78% of employees would be more likely to apply for a job that offered on-demand pay.
• Flexible Pay Schedules: While challenging for small businesses to manage manually, advanced payroll systems might offer more flexible pay options beyond standard cycles, catering to contractor needs or specific project-based payments.

Enhanced Data Security and Privacy

With increasing cyber threats and stricter data privacy regulations like GDPR or CCPA, even if primarily for larger businesses, the principles apply to all, payroll data security is paramount. Desktop payroll software for small business

• Advanced Encryption: Payroll providers are continually enhancing encryption standards for data at rest and in transit. Look for systems with multi-layered security protocols.
• Multi-Factor Authentication MFA: This should be a standard security feature for accessing your payroll system.
• Compliance with Data Protection Regulations: While small businesses might not fall under the strictest regulations, choosing a provider that adheres to high data protection standards generally is a wise choice. Data breaches can cost small businesses an average of $3 million, highlighting the importance of robust security.
• Blockchain for Payroll Future Potential: While not mainstream yet, some explore blockchain technology for payroll to enhance transparency, security, and immutability of transaction records, potentially reducing fraud and simplifying audits in the distant future.

Beyond the Program: Best Practices for Small Business Payroll

Having the best software is a fantastic start, but integrating it with sound internal practices is what truly optimizes your payroll process.

Maintain Meticulous Records

The software helps, but your discipline seals the deal.

• Employee Files: Keep up-to-date records for each employee, including W-4s, I-9s, offer letters, pay rate changes, and performance reviews. While much can be digital, ensure you have a consistent system.
• Time Sheets: Even with integrated time tracking, maintain a clear audit trail of approved hours, especially for hourly workers. This is crucial for FLSA compliance.
• Deduction Authorizations: For any voluntary deductions e.g., 401k, health insurance, ensure you have signed authorization from the employee.

Reconcile Regularly

Don’t just set it and forget it. Payroll needs periodic checks.

• Bank Reconciliation: Compare your payroll reports to your bank statements to ensure direct deposits and tax payments match. This helps catch errors or discrepancies quickly.
• General Ledger Reconciliation: Ensure your payroll expenses in the accounting software align with your payroll reports.
• Quarterly & Annual Review: Before filing quarterly 941 and annual W-2, 940 forms, perform a thorough review to catch any lingering errors. This is your last chance to fix things before submitting to the IRS.

Stay Informed on Regulations

Laws change. Your role as a business owner is to stay aware.

• Subscribe to Updates: Many payroll providers offer email newsletters or alerts about relevant tax law changes. Subscribe to IRS and state tax agency updates as well.
• Consult Professionals: For complex situations, don’t hesitate to consult a certified public accountant CPA or a payroll specialist. Their expertise can save you from costly mistakes.
• Review State & Local Websites: Regularly check your state’s Department of Labor and tax agency websites for updates specific to your region.

The Islamic Perspective: Ethical Business & Payroll

From an Islamic standpoint, the concept of “payroll” falls under the broader principles of justice, fairness, and upholding contracts in business dealings. Payroll services usa

While the tools and technology for payroll processing are permissible, the underlying financial practices must align with Islamic principles.

Avoiding Riba Interest in Payroll-Related Financing

A significant concern in modern finance is riba interest. While direct payroll services typically don’t involve interest, businesses must be vigilant about how they finance their operations and manage cash flow related to payroll.

• Interest-Based Loans and Credit Cards for Payroll: It is not permissible to take out interest-bearing loans or use interest-incurring credit cards to cover payroll shortfalls. This directly engages in riba.
• Better Alternatives:
  • Equity Financing: Seeking investment from partners who share in the profit and loss of the business.
  • Murabaha or Musharakah Financing: Exploring Murabaha cost-plus financing or Musharakah joint venture partnership with Islamic financial institutions for operational capital, where no interest is involved.
  • Saving and Budgeting: Diligent financial planning, maintaining an emergency fund, and disciplined budgeting are crucial to ensure you always have sufficient funds for payroll without resorting to interest-based borrowing. Prioritize revenue generation and cost management to maintain liquidity.
  • Halal Short-Term Funding: If truly necessary for cash flow, seek out short-term, interest-free loans from individuals or institutions known as Qard Hasan or explore other permissible financing structures.

Fairness, Timeliness, and Transparency in Compensation

Islamic teachings emphasize giving workers their due promptly and fairly.

• Prompt Payment: The Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him said, “Give the laborer his wages before his sweat dries.” This highlights the importance of timely payment. A good payroll system helps ensure this by automating direct deposits and adherence to pay schedules.
• Fair Wages: Wages should be just and agreed upon, reflecting the value of the work and the prevailing market conditions. The payroll system accurately calculates these agreed-upon wages.
• Transparency: Employees should have clear access to their earnings statements, deductions, and tax information. The employee self-service portals offered by modern payroll programs align perfectly with this need for transparency.
• Accurate Deductions: Any deductions for taxes, benefits, or other items must be accurately calculated and clearly itemized on pay stubs, ensuring employees understand their net pay.

By choosing a payroll program that supports accuracy, timeliness, and transparency, and by ensuring all related financial decisions especially financing are free from riba, a small business owner can manage their payroll in a manner consistent with Islamic principles, fostering justice and blessings in their operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best payroll program for a small business?

The “best” payroll program for a small business typically depends on specific needs, but top contenders known for their user-friendliness and comprehensive features include Gusto, QuickBooks Payroll, and OnPay. Payroll outsourcing companies uk

How much does payroll software for small businesses cost?

Payroll software costs typically range from $40 to $100 per month for a base plan, plus an additional $4 to $12 per employee per month.

Prices vary based on features and the number of employees.

Do I really need payroll software for just a few employees?

Yes, even with just a few employees, payroll software is highly recommended to ensure accurate calculations, timely tax filings, and compliance with federal and state regulations, minimizing the risk of costly penalties.

What’s the difference between full-service and self-service payroll?

Full-service payroll handles all tax calculations, filings, and payments on your behalf, while self-service payroll calculates wages and taxes, but you are responsible for filing and remitting taxes yourself.

Can payroll software handle both W-2 employees and 1099 contractors?

Yes, most reputable payroll software programs can manage both W-2 employees handling taxes and benefits and 1099 contractors facilitating payments and year-end 1099-NEC filings. Paycheck service companies

Is direct deposit standard with payroll programs?

Yes, direct deposit is a standard feature in nearly all modern payroll programs, offering a convenient and secure way to pay employees.

How does payroll software handle tax filings?

The best payroll software automatically calculates, withholds, files, and remits federal, state, and local payroll taxes including 941s, 940s, W-2s, and 1099s on your behalf.

What are the key features to look for in a payroll program?

Key features include automated payroll runs, direct deposit, comprehensive tax filing and compliance, employee self-service portals, benefits administration integration, and robust reporting.

Can I integrate payroll software with my accounting software?

Yes, seamless integration with accounting software like QuickBooks, Xero, or FreshBooks is a crucial feature to look for, ensuring accurate financial reporting and reducing manual data entry.

What if I have employees in multiple states?

If you have employees in multiple states, you need a payroll program that can accurately calculate and file taxes for each state, managing the varying state income tax and unemployment insurance SUI requirements.

How long does it take to set up payroll software?

Setup time varies, but for a small business, it can range from a few hours to a few days, depending on the complexity of your payroll and the amount of historical data that needs to be entered.

What kind of customer support should I expect from a payroll provider?

Look for providers offering accessible and knowledgeable customer support via phone, email, and chat, with support hours that align with your business needs.

Are there free payroll programs for small businesses?

While a few options might offer limited free tiers or trials, truly comprehensive, compliant, and reliable payroll services for small businesses typically come with a monthly fee.

What is the importance of employee self-service portals?

Employee self-service portals empower employees to access pay stubs, W-2s, and update personal information independently, significantly reducing administrative tasks for the business owner.

How does payroll software help with compliance?

Payroll software helps ensure compliance by automatically calculating correct tax withholdings, filing required forms on time, and often keeping up-to-date with changing federal and state payroll laws.

Can payroll software manage benefits deductions?

Yes, most payroll software can integrate with benefits providers to accurately calculate and deduct health insurance premiums, 401k contributions, and other benefits from employee paychecks.

What is “on-demand pay” or “earned wage access”?

On-demand pay or earned wage access EWA allows employees to access a portion of their earned wages before their official payday, providing financial flexibility.

Some payroll programs integrate with EWA platforms.

How does payroll software help with time tracking?

Many payroll programs either have built-in time tracking features or integrate with external time tracking software to automatically import employee hours, ensuring accurate payroll calculations for hourly workers.

What happens if I make a mistake with payroll taxes?

Incorrect or late payroll tax filings can result in significant penalties from the IRS and state tax agencies, which is why reliable payroll software and diligent review are crucial.

Can a payroll program help with new hire reporting?

Yes, the best payroll programs automate new hire reporting to relevant state agencies, ensuring you meet the legal requirement to report newly hired employees within a specified timeframe.