Quick Overview
- 1#1: eMars ProCrew - Delivers specialized payroll processing for construction firms with certified payroll, prevailing wage compliance, union management, and job cost integration.
- 2#2: Lumber PC - Offers automated construction payroll with certified payroll reports, fringe benefit tracking, and multi-state compliance for contractors.
- 3#3: Foundation - Provides integrated construction accounting and payroll software featuring job costing, certified payroll, and real-time reporting.
- 4#4: Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate - Enterprise-level construction management suite with robust payroll handling certified wages, unions, and project-specific disbursements.
- 5#5: Trimble Viewpoint - Comprehensive ERP platform for construction including advanced payroll, time tracking, and compliance for large-scale projects.
- 6#6: CMiC - Cloud-based construction ERP with end-to-end payroll management, certified reporting, and integration with project financials.
- 7#7: QuickBooks Contractor - Affordable payroll solution tailored for contractors with job costing, time tracking, and basic certified payroll support.
- 8#8: Procore - Construction management platform with payroll integrations, timecards, and compliance tools for field-to-office workflows.
- 9#9: Knowify - All-in-one construction software including payroll processing, invoicing, and job cost tracking for small to mid-sized firms.
- 10#10: Buildertrend - Construction project management tool with payroll features, time tracking, and integrations for efficient crew payments.
We ranked tools based on critical factors: robust construction-specific features (e.g., certified payroll, prevailing wage tracking), seamless integration with accounting and job management systems, intuitive design, and overall value, ensuring they address the unique complexities of the construction payroll landscape.
Comparison Table
Effective construction payroll software is vital for managing labor costs and compliance; this comparison table breaks down top tools, such as eMars ProCrew, Lumber PC, Foundation, Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate, Trimble Viewpoint, and more, to help readers analyze key features and select the best fit for their projects.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | eMars ProCrew Delivers specialized payroll processing for construction firms with certified payroll, prevailing wage compliance, union management, and job cost integration. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 |
| 2 | Lumber PC Offers automated construction payroll with certified payroll reports, fringe benefit tracking, and multi-state compliance for contractors. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 3 | Foundation Provides integrated construction accounting and payroll software featuring job costing, certified payroll, and real-time reporting. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate Enterprise-level construction management suite with robust payroll handling certified wages, unions, and project-specific disbursements. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.9/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 5 | Trimble Viewpoint Comprehensive ERP platform for construction including advanced payroll, time tracking, and compliance for large-scale projects. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | CMiC Cloud-based construction ERP with end-to-end payroll management, certified reporting, and integration with project financials. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | QuickBooks Contractor Affordable payroll solution tailored for contractors with job costing, time tracking, and basic certified payroll support. | other | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | Procore Construction management platform with payroll integrations, timecards, and compliance tools for field-to-office workflows. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.1/10 |
| 9 | Knowify All-in-one construction software including payroll processing, invoicing, and job cost tracking for small to mid-sized firms. | enterprise | 7.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 | 6.5/10 |
| 10 | Buildertrend Construction project management tool with payroll features, time tracking, and integrations for efficient crew payments. | enterprise | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.0/10 |
Delivers specialized payroll processing for construction firms with certified payroll, prevailing wage compliance, union management, and job cost integration.
Offers automated construction payroll with certified payroll reports, fringe benefit tracking, and multi-state compliance for contractors.
Provides integrated construction accounting and payroll software featuring job costing, certified payroll, and real-time reporting.
Enterprise-level construction management suite with robust payroll handling certified wages, unions, and project-specific disbursements.
Comprehensive ERP platform for construction including advanced payroll, time tracking, and compliance for large-scale projects.
Cloud-based construction ERP with end-to-end payroll management, certified reporting, and integration with project financials.
Affordable payroll solution tailored for contractors with job costing, time tracking, and basic certified payroll support.
Construction management platform with payroll integrations, timecards, and compliance tools for field-to-office workflows.
All-in-one construction software including payroll processing, invoicing, and job cost tracking for small to mid-sized firms.
Construction project management tool with payroll features, time tracking, and integrations for efficient crew payments.
eMars ProCrew
specializedDelivers specialized payroll processing for construction firms with certified payroll, prevailing wage compliance, union management, and job cost integration.
Automated certified payroll reporting with one-click exports for Davis-Bacon, state DOTs, and LCPtracker compliance
eMars ProCrew is a specialized cloud-based payroll software designed specifically for the construction industry, handling complex requirements like certified payroll, prevailing wages, union fringes, and multi-state compliance. It offers robust time and attendance tracking via mobile apps, job costing integration, and automated reporting for DOT, LCPtracker, and other mandates. The platform streamlines payroll processing from time entry to tax filing, ensuring accuracy and reducing manual errors for contractors.
Pros
- Comprehensive certified payroll and prevailing wage compliance with automated report generation
- Mobile-first time tracking and GPS verification tailored for field crews
- Seamless handling of union dues, fringes, and multi-state payroll taxes
Cons
- Steep initial learning curve for non-construction users
- Pricing can be premium for very small crews under 10 employees
- Limited native integrations outside of QuickBooks and major accounting software
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms managing union labor, prevailing wage projects, and field-based time tracking.
Pricing
Custom quotes based on employee count and features; typically starts at $400-$600/month for small teams, scaling with usage.
Lumber PC
specializedOffers automated construction payroll with certified payroll reports, fringe benefit tracking, and multi-state compliance for contractors.
Automated certified payroll report generation with built-in Davis-Bacon compliance validation and e-submission capabilities
Lumber PC is a specialized payroll software designed exclusively for the construction industry, focusing on certified payroll reporting, prevailing wage compliance, and union fringe benefit management. It streamlines timecard entry, job costing, and generates compliant reports for Davis-Bacon and other government contracts. The platform also offers employee self-service portals and integrations with QuickBooks for seamless accounting.
Pros
- Robust certified payroll and prevailing wage compliance tools
- Seamless QuickBooks integration and job costing capabilities
- Dedicated support for construction-specific needs like fringe benefits
Cons
- Dated user interface that feels less modern
- Limited advanced HR features beyond payroll
- Steeper learning curve for new users unfamiliar with construction payroll
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms handling government contracts and union labor requiring strict certified payroll compliance.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $99/month for up to 10 employees, scales to $2+ per additional employee/month with custom enterprise plans.
Foundation
enterpriseProvides integrated construction accounting and payroll software featuring job costing, certified payroll, and real-time reporting.
Automated certified payroll reports with built-in compliance for federal prevailing wage laws and union fringes
Foundation by Foundation Software is a comprehensive construction accounting platform with a powerful payroll module designed specifically for contractors. It excels in handling certified payroll, union fringes, prevailing wages, multi-state tax compliance, and integrates payroll data directly with job costing for accurate project profitability tracking. The software supports timecard entry, electronic payments, and customizable reporting to streamline construction-specific payroll processes.
Pros
- Deep integration of payroll with job costing and project accounting
- Robust certified payroll reporting compliant with Davis-Bacon and union requirements
- Multi-state tax filing and fringe benefit management
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to comprehensive feature set
- Quote-based pricing lacks transparency and can be costly for small firms
- User interface feels dated compared to modern cloud competitors
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms with complex payroll needs involving certified reporting, unions, and job-level tracking.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting around $5,000 annually for basic setups, scaling with users and modules (perpetual licenses or subscriptions available).
Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate
enterpriseEnterprise-level construction management suite with robust payroll handling certified wages, unions, and project-specific disbursements.
Automated certified payroll reports with e-submission capabilities directly from job-site timecards
Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate is a robust ERP platform designed for mid-to-large construction and real estate firms, featuring a dedicated payroll module that handles complex construction-specific requirements like certified payroll, prevailing wages, union fringes, and job costing integration. It streamlines payroll processing by linking employee hours directly to project costs and ensures compliance with multi-state regulations and Davis-Bacon reporting. The software excels in scalability for growing contractors but requires significant setup.
Pros
- Comprehensive certified payroll and prevailing wage compliance with automated reporting
- Seamless integration of payroll data with job costing and general ledger
- Strong support for union dues, fringes, and multi-state tax filings
Cons
- Steep learning curve and outdated interface requiring extensive training
- High implementation costs and complexity for smaller teams
- Primarily on-premise deployment with limited native mobile access
Best For
Mid-sized to large construction firms requiring fully integrated ERP payroll tied to project management and accounting.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $15,000–$50,000+ annually depending on users and modules, with perpetual licenses or cloud subscriptions available.
Trimble Viewpoint
enterpriseComprehensive ERP platform for construction including advanced payroll, time tracking, and compliance for large-scale projects.
Deep integration of payroll data directly with job costing for real-time project profitability insights
Trimble Viewpoint is a robust construction management ERP platform with specialized payroll modules tailored for the construction industry, handling complex requirements like certified payroll, union fringes, prevailing wages, and multi-state compliance. It integrates time tracking, payroll processing, and job costing to ensure accurate labor allocation and financial reporting. Designed for scalability, it supports general contractors and subcontractors with features for mobile time entry and automated tax filings.
Pros
- Comprehensive construction-specific payroll features including certified payroll and fringe benefits management
- Seamless integration with job costing, accounting, and project management
- Strong compliance tools and customizable reporting for regulatory needs
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex setup for new users
- High upfront implementation and ongoing costs
- Overkill for very small construction firms with simple payroll needs
Best For
Mid-sized to large construction companies needing an integrated ERP system with advanced payroll capabilities.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $50,000+ annually for mid-sized implementations, depending on modules and users.
CMiC
enterpriseCloud-based construction ERP with end-to-end payroll management, certified reporting, and integration with project financials.
Real-time payroll-to-job-costing integration that automatically allocates labor costs to projects for precise financial tracking.
CMiC is a comprehensive enterprise resource planning (ERP) platform for construction that includes a specialized payroll module designed to handle complex industry-specific requirements like certified payroll, prevailing wages, union fringes, and multi-state tax compliance. It integrates payroll data seamlessly with project management, job costing, and accounting for real-time financial visibility. Ideal for large-scale contractors, it automates reporting for regulations such as Davis-Bacon and supports mobile time entry for field workers.
Pros
- Robust compliance tools for certified payroll and union reporting
- Tight integration with ERP for accurate job costing
- Scalable for handling thousands of employees across multiple projects
Cons
- Steep learning curve and requires extensive training
- High implementation costs and custom pricing
- Overkill and expensive for small to mid-sized contractors
Best For
Enterprise-level construction firms managing large, complex payrolls with integrated project accounting needs.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing, typically $50,000+ annually based on users, modules, and deployment (cloud or on-premise).
QuickBooks Contractor
otherAffordable payroll solution tailored for contractors with job costing, time tracking, and basic certified payroll support.
Automatic allocation of payroll costs to specific jobs and projects via integrated job costing
QuickBooks Contractor, powered by Intuit, is an accounting platform with specialized payroll features designed for construction businesses, enabling automated payroll processing, time tracking, and job costing. It handles construction-specific needs like certified payroll, prevailing wages, union dues, and workers' compensation tracking. The software integrates payroll data directly into financial reports, helping contractors manage labor costs per project efficiently.
Pros
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks accounting for job costing and expense tracking
- Supports certified payroll, union fringes, and multi-state compliance critical for construction
- Mobile app and QuickBooks Time integration for field time tracking
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers required for full construction features like advanced job costing
- Steep learning curve for users new to QuickBooks ecosystem
- Limited standalone payroll customization without add-ons
Best For
Small to mid-sized construction firms already using QuickBooks for accounting who need integrated payroll with project-level labor tracking.
Pricing
Payroll add-on starts at $45/month + $6/employee (Core), up to $125/month + $10/employee (Elite); requires QuickBooks Online Plus ($90+/month) or higher for contractor features.
Procore
enterpriseConstruction management platform with payroll integrations, timecards, and compliance tools for field-to-office workflows.
Automated certified payroll reports that pull directly from project time data for instant regulatory compliance
Procore is a comprehensive cloud-based construction management platform that includes specialized payroll tools tailored for the construction industry, focusing on time tracking, certified payroll, and wage compliance. It enables seamless capture of field timecards via mobile apps, automatic fringe benefit calculations, and generation of compliant payroll reports for prevailing wage and union requirements. While not a standalone payroll solution, its deep integration with project management features provides end-to-end visibility from job site to payment.
Pros
- Robust certified payroll reporting and prevailing wage compliance tools
- Seamless integration of timecards from field to payroll processing
- Strong mobile accessibility for workers and foremen
Cons
- High cost, especially for smaller firms without needing the full suite
- Steep learning curve due to the platform's complexity
- Limited standalone payroll use; best with other Procore modules
Best For
Mid-to-large construction companies seeking integrated project management and payroll compliance.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $300-$600 per user/year plus project fees, with minimums starting around $10,000 annually.
Knowify
enterpriseAll-in-one construction software including payroll processing, invoicing, and job cost tracking for small to mid-sized firms.
Certified payroll reporting with automated compliance forms for public sector jobs
Knowify is a cloud-based construction management platform with strong time tracking and job costing capabilities tailored for construction payroll needs. It enables mobile timesheet entry, labor cost allocation to projects, and generates certified payroll reports for compliance. While it excels in capturing field data, full payroll processing requires integration with tools like QuickBooks.
Pros
- Robust mobile time tracking with GPS for accurate field hours
- Certified payroll reporting for compliance-heavy projects
- Seamless job costing ties labor directly to profitability
Cons
- No native payroll processing; relies on third-party integrations
- Pricing scales quickly for larger teams
- Limited standalone payroll customization without full platform use
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms needing integrated time tracking and certified payroll reporting alongside project management.
Pricing
Starts at $149/month (Launch plan); Pro at $399/month; custom enterprise quotes.
Buildertrend
enterpriseConstruction project management tool with payroll features, time tracking, and integrations for efficient crew payments.
Field-to-office time tracking that automatically feeds into certified payroll reports and wage compliance
Buildertrend is a comprehensive construction management platform that includes payroll features designed for builders and contractors, enabling time tracking, certified payroll reporting, and integration with services like QuickBooks and Gusto. It streamlines payroll by linking field time entries directly to wage calculations and compliance documents. While not a dedicated payroll software, it provides solid tools for construction-specific needs within its all-in-one ecosystem.
Pros
- Robust time tracking with mobile app for job site clock-ins
- Certified payroll and compliance reporting built-in
- Seamless integration with project management and scheduling
Cons
- Steep learning curve for full platform mastery
- Higher pricing for comprehensive features
- Relies on third-party integrations for advanced payroll processing
Best For
Mid-sized construction companies needing integrated project management and basic payroll in one platform.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month for basic plan (1 user), $399/month for Onsite Pro (unlimited users + advanced features); custom enterprise pricing available.
Conclusion
After evaluating 10 leading construction payroll tools, eMars ProCrew stands out as the top choice, excelling in specialized processing, certified payroll, and union management. Lumber PC and Foundation follow closely, offering robust alternatives—each tailored to distinct needs, whether multi-state compliance or integrated accounting. Both provide strong options for firms seeking reliable solutions.
Take the first step toward streamlined operations and seamless compliance by trying eMars ProCrew, the top-ranked tool for construction payroll success.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison