Quick Overview
- 1#1: UKG Pro - Enterprise workforce management platform with advanced payroll, scheduling, and time tracking tailored for large hospitality chains handling tips and compliance.
- 2#2: Fourth - Hospitality-specific labor management software integrating scheduling, time clocks, and payroll for restaurants and hotels with tip pooling support.
- 3#3: ADP Workforce Now - Comprehensive payroll and HR solution with hospitality modules for tip reporting, multi-state compliance, and shift differentials.
- 4#4: Paychex Flex - Flexible payroll service optimized for hospitality businesses, featuring tip management, ACA compliance, and POS integrations.
- 5#5: 7shifts - Restaurant-focused scheduling and payroll tool that automates labor costing, tip distribution, and integrations with popular POS systems.
- 6#6: Toast - All-in-one restaurant POS platform with embedded payroll processing for handling hourly wages, tips, and team management.
- 7#7: Deputy - Mobile workforce management app offering scheduling, time tracking, and payroll for shift-based hospitality operations worldwide.
- 8#8: Homebase - Free scheduling, time tracking, and payroll software designed for small hospitality teams with overtime and tip handling.
- 9#9: Gusto - Modern payroll platform supporting hospitality tipped employees with automated tax filings, benefits, and compliance tools.
- 10#10: Paycor - HR and payroll software with hospitality features like wage garnishment, tip credits, and analytics for labor costs.
We ranked tools based on hospitality-specific capabilities (tips, compliance, integration), reliability, user-friendliness for busy staff, and scalability across business sizes, ensuring balance between feature richness and practical value.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines top hospitality payroll software options—such as UKG Pro, Fourth, ADP Workforce Now, Paychex Flex, 7shifts, and more—designed to assist businesses in evaluating tools tailored to their unique needs. Readers will discover key features, operational suitability, and distinguishing factors to make informed choices for efficient payroll management.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | UKG Pro Enterprise workforce management platform with advanced payroll, scheduling, and time tracking tailored for large hospitality chains handling tips and compliance. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | Fourth Hospitality-specific labor management software integrating scheduling, time clocks, and payroll for restaurants and hotels with tip pooling support. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | ADP Workforce Now Comprehensive payroll and HR solution with hospitality modules for tip reporting, multi-state compliance, and shift differentials. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Paychex Flex Flexible payroll service optimized for hospitality businesses, featuring tip management, ACA compliance, and POS integrations. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 5 | 7shifts Restaurant-focused scheduling and payroll tool that automates labor costing, tip distribution, and integrations with popular POS systems. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Toast All-in-one restaurant POS platform with embedded payroll processing for handling hourly wages, tips, and team management. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 7 | Deputy Mobile workforce management app offering scheduling, time tracking, and payroll for shift-based hospitality operations worldwide. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | Homebase Free scheduling, time tracking, and payroll software designed for small hospitality teams with overtime and tip handling. | other | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 9 | Gusto Modern payroll platform supporting hospitality tipped employees with automated tax filings, benefits, and compliance tools. | other | 8.3/10 | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | Paycor HR and payroll software with hospitality features like wage garnishment, tip credits, and analytics for labor costs. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.5/10 |
Enterprise workforce management platform with advanced payroll, scheduling, and time tracking tailored for large hospitality chains handling tips and compliance.
Hospitality-specific labor management software integrating scheduling, time clocks, and payroll for restaurants and hotels with tip pooling support.
Comprehensive payroll and HR solution with hospitality modules for tip reporting, multi-state compliance, and shift differentials.
Flexible payroll service optimized for hospitality businesses, featuring tip management, ACA compliance, and POS integrations.
Restaurant-focused scheduling and payroll tool that automates labor costing, tip distribution, and integrations with popular POS systems.
All-in-one restaurant POS platform with embedded payroll processing for handling hourly wages, tips, and team management.
Mobile workforce management app offering scheduling, time tracking, and payroll for shift-based hospitality operations worldwide.
Free scheduling, time tracking, and payroll software designed for small hospitality teams with overtime and tip handling.
Modern payroll platform supporting hospitality tipped employees with automated tax filings, benefits, and compliance tools.
HR and payroll software with hospitality features like wage garnishment, tip credits, and analytics for labor costs.
UKG Pro
enterpriseEnterprise workforce management platform with advanced payroll, scheduling, and time tracking tailored for large hospitality chains handling tips and compliance.
AI-powered labor optimization and predictive scheduling that forecasts demand and minimizes overstaffing in dynamic hospitality environments
UKG Pro is a comprehensive enterprise HCM platform with robust payroll capabilities tailored for hospitality, managing complex pay structures like tipped wages, overtime, split shifts, and multi-state compliance. It integrates payroll with advanced workforce management, scheduling, timekeeping, and labor forecasting to optimize operations in hotels, restaurants, and resorts. As a scalable solution for large organizations, it provides real-time analytics and AI-driven insights to reduce labor costs and improve efficiency.
Pros
- Exceptional handling of hospitality-specific payroll complexities including tip pooling, gratuities, and variable shift pay
- Seamless integration with scheduling, time & attendance, and HR for end-to-end workforce management
- Enterprise-grade scalability with strong multi-location and compliance support across global operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface requiring significant training for users
- High implementation time and costs, often 6-12 months for full rollout
- Premium pricing may not suit smaller hospitality businesses
Best For
Large-scale hospitality chains and multi-location enterprises needing integrated payroll, scheduling, and compliance in a single platform.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically starts at $100+ per employee/month, with implementation fees in the tens of thousands.
Fourth
specializedHospitality-specific labor management software integrating scheduling, time clocks, and payroll for restaurants and hotels with tip pooling support.
Real-time labor optimization engine that dynamically forecasts staffing needs and suggests adjustments to minimize costs
Fourth is a robust workforce management platform tailored for the hospitality industry, providing integrated payroll processing, scheduling, time and attendance tracking, and compliance tools. It excels in handling complex payroll needs like tipped wages, shift differentials, and multi-location operations common in restaurants and hotels. The software offers real-time analytics and labor forecasting to optimize costs and improve operational efficiency.
Pros
- Hospitality-specific payroll features including tip management, pooling, and compliance with varying wage laws
- Real-time labor forecasting and optimization to control costs and reduce overstaffing
- Seamless integrations with POS systems and multi-location support for enterprise-scale operations
Cons
- Custom pricing can be expensive for small businesses or single-location venues
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features and complex initial setup
- Limited transparency on pricing without a demo or quote request
Best For
Multi-location hospitality chains and large restaurants needing advanced, integrated payroll and workforce management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $5,000+ per month based on locations and employees; quote required.
ADP Workforce Now
enterpriseComprehensive payroll and HR solution with hospitality modules for tip reporting, multi-state compliance, and shift differentials.
Sophisticated tip management module that automates pooling, distribution, and W-2/1099 reporting specific to hospitality regulations
ADP Workforce Now is a comprehensive human capital management (HCM) platform that excels in payroll processing tailored for hospitality businesses, handling complex needs like tipped wages, shift differentials, and multi-location operations. It integrates payroll with time and attendance, scheduling, and HR tools to streamline workforce management for hotels, restaurants, and resorts. The software ensures compliance with hospitality-specific regulations, including FLSA overtime rules and state tip laws, while offering robust reporting for labor cost analysis.
Pros
- Advanced tip reporting, allocation, and IRS compliance for service industry workers
- Seamless integration with POS systems and time clocks for accurate hourly tracking
- Scalable for multi-state, multi-location hospitality enterprises with strong audit-ready reporting
Cons
- Steep learning curve and lengthy implementation for non-expert users
- High cost structure that may overwhelm smaller hospitality operations
- Custom pricing lacks upfront transparency, requiring sales consultations
Best For
Mid-to-large hospitality chains with complex, multi-location payroll needs involving tipped employees and varying shift schedules.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting around $150-$250 per employee per month, depending on modules, employee count, and add-ons like time tracking.
Paychex Flex
enterpriseFlexible payroll service optimized for hospitality businesses, featuring tip management, ACA compliance, and POS integrations.
Automated tip pooling, reporting, and POS synchronization designed specifically for hospitality wage compliance
Paychex Flex is a robust cloud-based payroll and HR platform tailored for various industries, including hospitality, offering payroll processing, time and attendance tracking, and compliance tools for tipped employees. It supports tip reporting, allocation, and integration with POS systems common in restaurants and hotels, alongside scheduling and multi-location management. The solution also includes employee self-service via mobile app for clock-ins, pay stubs, and tip declarations, making it suitable for shift-based hospitality workforces.
Pros
- Comprehensive tip management and FLSA compliance for hospitality tipped wages
- Seamless POS integrations and mobile time tracking for shift workers
- Strong multi-state and multi-location payroll support
Cons
- Quote-based pricing lacks upfront transparency and can be costly for small venues
- Full hospitality features often require add-on modules
- Steeper learning curve for advanced scheduling and reporting
Best For
Mid-sized hospitality businesses like restaurant chains or hotels needing integrated payroll, HR, and compliance for tipped, hourly staff.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting around $80/month base plus $4-6 per employee/pay period; hospitality add-ons extra.
7shifts
specializedRestaurant-focused scheduling and payroll tool that automates labor costing, tip distribution, and integrations with popular POS systems.
Real-time labor cost tracking synced with POS sales data for precise budgeting and forecasting
7shifts is a workforce management platform tailored for restaurants and hospitality businesses, providing scheduling, time tracking, and payroll preparation tools to streamline operations. It excels in labor costing, overtime calculations, tip pooling, and exporting data to popular payroll providers like QuickBooks, Gusto, and ADP. While not a standalone payroll processor, its hospitality-focused features make it ideal for managing hourly employee payroll efficiently.
Pros
- Industry-specific tools like tip tracking and labor forecasting optimized for restaurants
- Seamless integrations with major payroll and POS systems for accurate data export
- Intuitive mobile app for employee time clocking and manager oversight
Cons
- Relies on third-party processors for actual payroll runs, not fully standalone
- Pricing scales per location, which can be costly for small operations
- Advanced reporting requires higher-tier plans
Best For
Restaurant managers and multi-location hospitality groups seeking integrated scheduling and payroll prep to control labor costs.
Pricing
Starts at $29.99 per location/month (billed annually) for Essentials; higher tiers from $49.99/month, with custom enterprise pricing.
Toast
specializedAll-in-one restaurant POS platform with embedded payroll processing for handling hourly wages, tips, and team management.
Automatic real-time sync of POS data for tips, hours, and attendance directly into payroll calculations
Toast Payroll is an integrated payroll solution within the Toast POS ecosystem, tailored for restaurants and hospitality businesses to handle complex payroll needs like tipped wages, overtime, and shift scheduling. It automatically pulls time, attendance, and sales data from the POS for accurate payroll processing, tip pooling, and compliance reporting. The platform offers employee self-service via a mobile app for viewing pay stubs and requesting time off, streamlining operations for hospitality teams.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Toast POS for real-time hours, tips, and sales data
- Specialized tools for tip pooling, distribution, and hospitality compliance
- Employee mobile app for self-service pay access and scheduling
Cons
- Best suited for existing Toast POS users; limited as a standalone solution
- Pricing is bundled and can be expensive for small or non-Toast operations
- Fewer advanced HR features compared to dedicated payroll providers
Best For
Restaurants and hospitality businesses already using Toast POS that require integrated payroll handling for tipped and hourly staff.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting at $40-50/month base + $5-6 per active employee, typically bundled with Toast POS subscription.
Deputy
specializedMobile workforce management app offering scheduling, time tracking, and payroll for shift-based hospitality operations worldwide.
Real-time labor costing dashboard that forecasts and tracks expenses against sales in hospitality environments
Deputy is a comprehensive workforce management platform designed for hospitality businesses, offering robust scheduling, time tracking, and payroll integration capabilities. It enables managers to build shift rosters, monitor employee attendance via a mobile app with GPS verification, and sync hours directly to payroll systems like Xero, QuickBooks, and Gusto. The software emphasizes labor cost control and compliance features tailored for high-turnover industries like restaurants and hotels, helping optimize staffing efficiency.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile-first interface ideal for on-the-go hospitality staff
- Seamless payroll integrations and real-time labor costing for cost control
- Automated shift management and compliance tools reduce administrative burden
Cons
- Payroll processing relies on third-party integrations rather than being fully native
- Advanced reporting and analytics require higher-tier plans
- Pricing scales quickly for larger teams with many active users
Best For
Small to mid-sized hospitality operations like restaurants and hotels needing integrated scheduling with payroll to manage hourly workers efficiently.
Pricing
Starts at $3.50 per active user/month (Essentials plan, billed annually); higher tiers like Pro ($5.25/user/month) and Enterprise (custom) unlock advanced features.
Homebase
otherFree scheduling, time tracking, and payroll software designed for small hospitality teams with overtime and tip handling.
Automated tip pooling and payout integration tailored for hospitality shift workers
Homebase is a comprehensive workforce management platform tailored for hourly workers in hospitality, offering robust scheduling, time tracking, and payroll integrations. It automates timesheet data export to popular payroll providers like Gusto, QuickBooks, and ADP, simplifying payroll for restaurants, hotels, and event venues. While it recently introduced Homebase Payroll in select markets, its core strength lies in bridging scheduling with payroll accuracy, including tip pooling and compliance tools.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile-first interface for easy employee scheduling and clock-ins
- Affordable free tier and scalable plans for small hospitality teams
- Strong integrations for tip tracking and timesheet-to-payroll automation
Cons
- Payroll functionality relies heavily on third-party integrations outside select markets
- Limited advanced tax filing or multi-state payroll capabilities
- Reporting features lack depth for larger enterprises
Best For
Small to mid-sized hospitality businesses like restaurants and hotels seeking integrated scheduling with straightforward payroll syncing.
Pricing
Free basic plan (1 location, up to 20 employees); Essentials $29.99/location/month; Plus $59.99/location/month; Payroll add-on starts at $29/month + $6/employee.
Gusto
otherModern payroll platform supporting hospitality tipped employees with automated tax filings, benefits, and compliance tools.
Advanced tip management with automated pooling, credits, and 1099 reporting for hospitality tipped staff
Gusto is an all-in-one payroll, benefits, and HR platform tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, including hospitality operations with tipped employees and variable schedules. It automates payroll processing, tax compliance, tip reporting, and multi-state filings, while integrating with time-tracking apps for accurate wage calculations. Ideal for restaurants, hotels, and bars, it simplifies managing seasonal staff and compliance-heavy environments.
Pros
- Excellent support for tipped wages, pooling, and IRS-compliant reporting
- Seamless multi-state payroll and automated tax filings
- User-friendly interface with mobile app for on-the-go approvals
Cons
- Lacks built-in scheduling and labor forecasting tools native to hospitality-specific software
- Pricing scales quickly for high-turnover teams with many part-timers
- Advanced HR features require premium add-ons
Best For
Mid-sized hospitality businesses (10-100 employees) needing robust payroll and basic HR without specialized scheduling integrations.
Pricing
Simple plan: $40 base + $6/employee/month; Plus: $80 + $12/employee; Premium: $149 + $22/employee; contractor-only options available.
Paycor
enterpriseHR and payroll software with hospitality features like wage garnishment, tip credits, and analytics for labor costs.
Advanced tip management with automated IRS-compliant reporting and equitable distribution
Paycor is a comprehensive cloud-based HCM platform that provides payroll processing optimized for hospitality businesses, handling tipped wages, shift differentials, and multi-state compliance. It integrates payroll with HR, time and attendance, scheduling, and benefits management to streamline operations for restaurants, hotels, and event venues. While robust for mid-market users, it may require customization for smaller operations.
Pros
- Excellent handling of tipped employee payroll and tip pooling
- Strong compliance tools for hospitality regulations like ACA and FLSA
- Seamless integrations with popular POS and scheduling systems
Cons
- Complex interface with a steeper learning curve for non-HR users
- Pricing can be higher for small hospitality businesses
- Limited out-of-the-box customization for niche hospitality workflows
Best For
Mid-sized hospitality chains with multiple locations needing integrated payroll and HR for tipped staff.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting around $99/base + $5-10 per employee/month; hospitality bundles available.
Conclusion
A thorough review of diverse hospitality payroll tools reveals three standout options. Leading the pack, UKG Pro shines with its enterprise - focused platform, excelling in tips and compliance for large chains. Fourth closely follows, a strong choice for restaurants and hotels needing tip pooling support, while ADP Workforce Now impresses with multi - state compliance and shift differentials. Each offers unique strengths, making the top 3 reliable for various operations, though UKG Pro remains the top pick for comprehensive hospitality needs.
To streamline your hospitality operations, manage tips efficiently, and stay compliant, start with the top - ranked UKG Pro. Its tailored features make it a standout choice, whether you run a large chain or a small team—explore its capabilities to elevate your payroll management today.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison