Quick Overview
- 1#1: QuickBooks Payroll - Automates payroll processing, tax filings, and secure check printing integrated with accounting software.
- 2#2: Gusto - Simplifies small business payroll with automated calculations, direct deposit, and printed check options.
- 3#3: ADP Run - Provides scalable payroll management including check printing, compliance, and HR tools for growing businesses.
- 4#4: Paychex - Offers full-service payroll with check printing, tax filing, and benefits administration.
- 5#5: Patriot Software - Delivers affordable payroll software with easy check printing and multi-state tax support for small businesses.
- 6#6: OnPay - Handles unlimited payroll runs with integrated check printing, benefits, and expert support.
- 7#7: VersaCheck - Specializes in secure, professional-grade check printing software for payroll and business payments.
- 8#8: Checkeeper - Enables cloud-based printing of payroll checks on blank stock paper using any standard printer.
- 9#9: SurePayroll - Streamlines online payroll with optional check printing and mailing services.
- 10#10: Payroll4Free - Provides free payroll software for up to 25 employees with check printing and basic tax forms.
Tools were chosen and ranked based on features (including check printing, tax filing, and integration), ease of use, reliability, and value, ensuring they meet the unique needs of small, growing, and enterprise-level organizations.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores top payroll checks software options, such as QuickBooks Payroll, Gusto, ADP Run, Paychex, and Patriot Software, to simplify your selection process. Readers will discover key features, pricing models, and usability details, helping them identify the best tool for their business requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | QuickBooks Payroll Automates payroll processing, tax filings, and secure check printing integrated with accounting software. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | Gusto Simplifies small business payroll with automated calculations, direct deposit, and printed check options. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 3 | ADP Run Provides scalable payroll management including check printing, compliance, and HR tools for growing businesses. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 4 | Paychex Offers full-service payroll with check printing, tax filing, and benefits administration. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | Patriot Software Delivers affordable payroll software with easy check printing and multi-state tax support for small businesses. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 6 | OnPay Handles unlimited payroll runs with integrated check printing, benefits, and expert support. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 7 | VersaCheck Specializes in secure, professional-grade check printing software for payroll and business payments. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 8 | Checkeeper Enables cloud-based printing of payroll checks on blank stock paper using any standard printer. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 9 | SurePayroll Streamlines online payroll with optional check printing and mailing services. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | Payroll4Free Provides free payroll software for up to 25 employees with check printing and basic tax forms. | other | 7.6/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.5/10 |
Automates payroll processing, tax filings, and secure check printing integrated with accounting software.
Simplifies small business payroll with automated calculations, direct deposit, and printed check options.
Provides scalable payroll management including check printing, compliance, and HR tools for growing businesses.
Offers full-service payroll with check printing, tax filing, and benefits administration.
Delivers affordable payroll software with easy check printing and multi-state tax support for small businesses.
Handles unlimited payroll runs with integrated check printing, benefits, and expert support.
Specializes in secure, professional-grade check printing software for payroll and business payments.
Enables cloud-based printing of payroll checks on blank stock paper using any standard printer.
Streamlines online payroll with optional check printing and mailing services.
Provides free payroll software for up to 25 employees with check printing and basic tax forms.
QuickBooks Payroll
enterpriseAutomates payroll processing, tax filings, and secure check printing integrated with accounting software.
Integrated check printing and professional mailing service with guaranteed accuracy and same-day processing options
QuickBooks Payroll is a robust, Intuit-powered solution deeply integrated with QuickBooks accounting software, enabling small to medium-sized businesses to process payroll efficiently, including check printing, direct deposits, and tax compliance. It automates calculations for wages, deductions, taxes, and filings, while providing tools for W-2s, 1099s, and employee self-service portals. As a top-tier payroll checks software, it supports customizable check printing on standard stock or via Intuit's mailing service for hassle-free distribution.
Pros
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks for automatic accounting sync and reconciliation
- Automated tax calculations, filings, and compliance guarantees
- Flexible payroll delivery options including direct deposit, printed checks, and global payments
Cons
- Higher cost for small teams or basic needs compared to standalone payroll tools
- Steeper learning curve for users new to the QuickBooks ecosystem
- Limited advanced HR features in lower-tier plans
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses already using QuickBooks that require reliable, compliant payroll check processing with full accounting integration.
Pricing
Starts at $45/month + $6/employee (Core); Premium ($80/month + $6/employee) and Elite ($125/month + $6/employee) offer more features; add-ons for time tracking and HR available.
Gusto
enterpriseSimplifies small business payroll with automated calculations, direct deposit, and printed check options.
Print & Mail Checks service that professionally prints, signs, and mails checks nationwide in 2-3 days.
Gusto is an all-in-one payroll, HR, and benefits platform designed primarily for small to medium-sized businesses, offering robust payroll processing including check printing, signing, and mailing services. It automates payroll runs, tax calculations, filings, and compliance, with options for both direct deposit and physical checks. Beyond basic checks, it integrates time tracking, employee self-service, and benefits administration for a streamlined experience.
Pros
- Automated payroll compliance and tax handling reduces errors
- Convenient check printing and USPS mailing service for $5/check
- User-friendly interface with mobile app for on-the-go approvals
Cons
- Pricing scales with employee count, which can get expensive
- Overkill for businesses needing only basic check printing
- Limited advanced customization for complex payroll scenarios
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses looking for integrated payroll checks with full HR and benefits management.
Pricing
Plans start at $40 base + $6/employee/month (Simple), up to $80 + $12/employee (Plus); check printing/mailing adds ~$5/check.
ADP Run
enterpriseProvides scalable payroll management including check printing, compliance, and HR tools for growing businesses.
MICR-encoded check printing directly from plain paper, ensuring instant bank compatibility without additional hardware
ADP Run is a robust payroll management platform from ADP tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, offering end-to-end payroll processing including wage calculations, deductions, and direct printing of payroll checks. It supports MICR-encoded checks for secure bank processing, along with options for direct deposit and tax filing automation. The software integrates HR tools, time tracking, and compliance features to streamline operations beyond just check printing.
Pros
- Comprehensive payroll compliance and automated tax filings
- Secure MICR-compliant check printing on plain paper
- Scalable integrations with HR and time-tracking tools
Cons
- Higher pricing that may overwhelm very small businesses
- Initial setup and learning curve for non-experts
- Limited flexibility in custom check formatting
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses needing reliable, compliant payroll check printing integrated with full HR functionality.
Pricing
Starts at $59/month + $4/employee for Essential plan; Enhanced ($99/month + $7/employee) and Complete tiers available with more features.
Paychex
enterpriseOffers full-service payroll with check printing, tax filing, and benefits administration.
Guaranteed payroll accuracy with expert tax compliance and on-demand check printing
Paychex is a comprehensive payroll processing platform that excels in managing payroll checks, including secure printing with MICR encoding for bank compatibility. It automates wage calculations, tax withholdings, direct deposits, and check issuance, while integrating HR and benefits administration. Designed for scalability, it handles multi-state payroll and ensures regulatory compliance through expert support.
Pros
- Robust check printing and MICR-compliant services
- Automated tax filing and compliance guarantees
- 24/7 expert support and integrations
Cons
- Custom pricing can be expensive for small businesses
- Initial setup requires data migration effort
- Overkill for simple check-only needs
Best For
Mid-sized businesses needing reliable, compliant payroll checks with full HR integration.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting at $80/month base + $4-5 per employee; volume discounts available.
Patriot Software
specializedDelivers affordable payroll software with easy check printing and multi-state tax support for small businesses.
MICR-encoded check printing on affordable blank stock using any laser printer, ensuring bank acceptance without expensive specialized equipment.
Patriot Software offers an affordable in-house payroll solution that includes robust payroll checks printing capabilities, allowing businesses to generate MICR-compliant checks using standard laser printers and their secure check stock. It handles payroll processing, direct deposit, tax calculations, and multi-state filings alongside check printing for small to medium-sized businesses. The software emphasizes simplicity and cost savings, making it suitable for companies managing their own payroll without full-service outsourcing.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing with low per-employee fees
- Reliable MICR-compliant check printing on laser printers
- Automated tax filing and multi-state payroll support
Cons
- Limited advanced HR and reporting features
- Fewer integrations with accounting software
- User interface appears somewhat dated
Best For
Small businesses with fewer than 100 employees needing a cost-effective tool for in-house payroll processing and check printing.
Pricing
In-house Payroll: $17 base fee + $4 per employee/month (check printing included); additional fees for forms and tax filing guarantees.
OnPay
specializedHandles unlimited payroll runs with integrated check printing, benefits, and expert support.
100% accuracy guarantee covering penalties for payroll and tax errors
OnPay is a full-service payroll software designed for small to medium-sized businesses, offering automated payroll processing, tax calculations, and filing. It supports payroll checks through printable checks on blank stock or pre-printed options, alongside direct deposit and paycards. The platform also includes HR tools, benefits management, and integrations with accounting software like QuickBooks.
Pros
- Unlimited payroll runs at a flat rate
- Guaranteed accuracy for payroll and taxes
- Excellent customer support with dedicated specialists
Cons
- Per-employee pricing can add up for larger teams
- No native time tracking (requires integrations)
- Limited advanced reporting compared to enterprise solutions
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses seeking reliable, full-service payroll with check printing and compliance support.
Pricing
$40 base fee + $6 per active employee per month; unlimited payrolls and tax filing included.
VersaCheck
specializedSpecializes in secure, professional-grade check printing software for payroll and business payments.
MICR line printing on plain paper for full bank compliance without special equipment
VersaCheck is a desktop check printing software designed for businesses to create, print, and mail professional payroll checks, stubs, and business forms on blank stock paper using any standard printer. It integrates with accounting tools like QuickBooks and Quicken, ensuring MICR encoding for bank compliance and fraud prevention. The software supports various check formats, including payroll with detailed wage and deduction stubs, making it suitable for in-house payroll processing.
Pros
- Cost-effective printing on blank paper saves on pre-printed checks
- Secure MICR encoding and anti-fraud features ensure bank compliance
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks and other accounting software
Cons
- Lacks built-in payroll calculation, tax filing, or employee management tools
- Desktop-only with limited cloud or mobile accessibility
- Requires purchase of proprietary blank check stock for optimal use
Best For
Small to medium businesses using existing accounting software who need affordable, secure in-house payroll check printing.
Pricing
One-time software license starting at $59.95 (VersaCheck Blue), plus optional blank check stock ($20-50 per 250-pack) and mailing services.
Checkeeper
specializedEnables cloud-based printing of payroll checks on blank stock paper using any standard printer.
Prints professional, bank-secure payroll checks on blank stock paper using any standard office printer
Checkeeper is a cloud-based platform specializing in on-demand check printing, including secure payroll checks that can be produced using any standard printer and blank stock paper. It integrates with accounting software like QuickBooks, Xero, and others, allowing users to import payroll data and generate MICR-compliant checks instantly. The service emphasizes security features such as positive pay support and fraud prevention, serving as a cost-effective alternative to pre-printed checks for businesses handling payroll disbursements.
Pros
- Seamless integrations with QuickBooks, Xero, and other accounting tools for easy payroll check generation
- High-security printing with MICR encoding and tamper-evident features on any printer
- Flexible on-demand printing eliminates inventory of pre-printed checks
Cons
- Lacks full payroll processing capabilities like tax calculations or direct deposit
- Ongoing subscription costs can add up for high-volume users
- Requires compatible check stock or plain paper setup, adding minor upfront costs
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses seeking a simple, secure solution for printing payroll checks without specialized hardware.
Pricing
Starts at $14.99/month (Solo: 100 checks), $29.99/month (Standard: 500 checks), up to $49.99/month (Premium: 1,000 checks); pay-per-check options and check stock sold separately.
SurePayroll
enterpriseStreamlines online payroll with optional check printing and mailing services.
MICR-compliant check printing on plain paper for cost-effective, secure payroll checks
SurePayroll, powered by Paychex, is an online payroll platform tailored for small businesses, providing comprehensive payroll processing including wage calculations, tax filings, direct deposits, and professional payroll check printing. It enables users to print checks on plain paper with built-in MICR encoding for secure bank processing, eliminating the need for expensive pre-printed checks. The software streamlines payroll runs with automated compliance features and integrates seamlessly with popular accounting tools like QuickBooks.
Pros
- Intuitive interface simplifies check printing and payroll processing
- Automated tax calculations and filings reduce compliance errors
- Strong integrations with QuickBooks and other accounting software
Cons
- Limited advanced HR tools compared to full-suite competitors
- Per-employee pricing can become costly for growing teams
- Some users report occasional delays in customer support response
Best For
Small businesses with up to 50 employees seeking straightforward payroll check printing and basic payroll management.
Pricing
Starts at $19.99/month base fee plus $4/employee/month; volume discounts and custom quotes available.
Payroll4Free
otherProvides free payroll software for up to 25 employees with check printing and basic tax forms.
Ability to print secure, bank-accepted payroll checks on plain paper without pre-printed forms
Payroll4Free is a web-based payroll software designed for small businesses, offering free payroll processing including wage calculations, tax withholdings, and check printing on plain paper for up to 25 employees. It supports direct deposit, W-2/1099 form generation, and basic state/federal tax filing. While cost-effective and straightforward, it features a dated interface and lacks advanced HR tools or extensive integrations.
Pros
- Completely free for businesses with 25 or fewer employees
- Prints professional checks on plain paper with MICR support
- Handles federal/state taxes, W-2s, and direct deposit
Cons
- Outdated, clunky web interface
- Strict 25-employee limit for free use
- Limited customer support and no mobile app
Best For
Very small businesses or startups with under 25 employees needing basic, no-cost payroll check processing.
Pricing
Free for up to 25 employees; paid plans for larger teams start around $30/month plus per-employee fees.
Conclusion
Evaluating the 10 tools reveals QuickBooks Payroll as the top choice, standing out with seamless payroll processing, tax filings, and integration with accounting software. While QuickBooks leads, Gusto and ADP Run also excel—Gusto for its simplicity in small business needs, and ADP Run for scalable, all-in-one management—offering strong alternatives for different requirements. Together, these top tools simplify a critical task, ensuring accuracy and saving valuable time.
Don’t miss out on the efficiency of QuickBooks Payroll; try it today to transform your payroll management process.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
