Quick Overview
- 1#1: ADP - Provides scalable, enterprise-grade payroll processing, compliance, and multi-client management for payroll service providers.
- 2#2: Paychex - Offers full-service payroll with HR integration, automated tax filing, and reporting tools tailored for service bureaus.
- 3#3: UKG Pro - Delivers advanced workforce management and payroll solutions for complex, multi-entity operations in large PSPs.
- 4#4: Dayforce - Enables continuous, AI-powered payroll calculation and HCM for efficient, accurate client payroll processing.
- 5#5: Paylocity - Modern payroll platform with custom analytics, employee self-service, and integrations for PSP client management.
- 6#6: Workday - Cloud HCM suite featuring global payroll compliance and scalability for enterprise-level service providers.
- 7#7: Rippling - All-in-one HR, payroll, and IT platform automating global payroll across multiple clients for growing PSPs.
- 8#8: Gusto - Simplifies SMB payroll with partner programs, benefits admin, and compliance tools for service providers.
- 9#9: Patriot Software - Supports full-service payroll reselling with white-label options for accountants and small PSPs.
- 10#10: Payroll Relief - Desktop payroll software designed specifically for payroll bureaus with bulk processing and client tracking.
Tools were selected based on robust functionality (including compliance, integration, and multi-client management), user experience, and practical value, ensuring they deliver meaningful support across diverse business sizes and operational demands.
Comparison Table
This comparison table highlights top payroll service provider software, including ADP, Paychex, UKG Pro, Dayforce, Paylocity, and more. Readers will learn about key features, pricing models, and scalability to identify the best fit for their business requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ADP Provides scalable, enterprise-grade payroll processing, compliance, and multi-client management for payroll service providers. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Paychex Offers full-service payroll with HR integration, automated tax filing, and reporting tools tailored for service bureaus. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 3 | UKG Pro Delivers advanced workforce management and payroll solutions for complex, multi-entity operations in large PSPs. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Dayforce Enables continuous, AI-powered payroll calculation and HCM for efficient, accurate client payroll processing. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | Paylocity Modern payroll platform with custom analytics, employee self-service, and integrations for PSP client management. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 6 | Workday Cloud HCM suite featuring global payroll compliance and scalability for enterprise-level service providers. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | Rippling All-in-one HR, payroll, and IT platform automating global payroll across multiple clients for growing PSPs. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 8.9/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Gusto Simplifies SMB payroll with partner programs, benefits admin, and compliance tools for service providers. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 9 | Patriot Software Supports full-service payroll reselling with white-label options for accountants and small PSPs. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 10 | Payroll Relief Desktop payroll software designed specifically for payroll bureaus with bulk processing and client tracking. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
Provides scalable, enterprise-grade payroll processing, compliance, and multi-client management for payroll service providers.
Offers full-service payroll with HR integration, automated tax filing, and reporting tools tailored for service bureaus.
Delivers advanced workforce management and payroll solutions for complex, multi-entity operations in large PSPs.
Enables continuous, AI-powered payroll calculation and HCM for efficient, accurate client payroll processing.
Modern payroll platform with custom analytics, employee self-service, and integrations for PSP client management.
Cloud HCM suite featuring global payroll compliance and scalability for enterprise-level service providers.
All-in-one HR, payroll, and IT platform automating global payroll across multiple clients for growing PSPs.
Simplifies SMB payroll with partner programs, benefits admin, and compliance tools for service providers.
Supports full-service payroll reselling with white-label options for accountants and small PSPs.
Desktop payroll software designed specifically for payroll bureaus with bulk processing and client tracking.
ADP
enterpriseProvides scalable, enterprise-grade payroll processing, compliance, and multi-client management for payroll service providers.
ADP Marketplace with 800+ pre-built integrations for effortless ecosystem expansion
ADP is a leading cloud-based payroll and HR software platform that automates payroll processing, tax calculations, filings, and compliance for businesses worldwide. It offers comprehensive tools for time tracking, benefits administration, talent management, and employee self-service portals. Scalable for small to enterprise-level organizations, ADP integrates seamlessly with over 800 third-party apps via its marketplace.
Pros
- Unmatched global payroll support in 140+ countries
- Industry-leading tax compliance and accuracy guarantees
- Extensive integrations and robust analytics via ADP DataCloud
Cons
- Custom pricing lacks transparency
- Steeper learning curve for complex setups
- Higher costs for small businesses compared to simpler alternatives
Best For
Mid-sized to enterprise businesses requiring scalable, compliant payroll with full HR suite integration.
Pricing
Custom quotes based on employee count and modules; essential plans start around $60 base + $4-12 per employee/month, scaling up for advanced features.
Paychex
enterpriseOffers full-service payroll with HR integration, automated tax filing, and reporting tools tailored for service bureaus.
In-house payroll experts who guarantee accurate tax filing and compliance across all jurisdictions
Paychex is a leading payroll service provider offering comprehensive software solutions through its Paychex Flex platform, automating payroll processing, tax filing, direct deposits, and W-2/1099 generation. It integrates HR tools like benefits administration, time and attendance tracking, talent management, and compliance reporting for streamlined operations. Ideal for businesses seeking scalable payroll with expert-backed support, Paychex ensures accuracy and regulatory adherence across all 50 states.
Pros
- Extensive feature set covering payroll, HR, benefits, and compliance in one platform
- Dedicated customer support and payroll specialists for hands-on assistance
- Strong scalability and integrations for growing businesses
Cons
- Higher pricing that may strain very small business budgets
- Steeper learning curve for advanced HR modules
- Custom quote process lacks transparent upfront costs
Best For
Mid-sized businesses needing an all-in-one payroll and HR solution with expert compliance support.
Pricing
Custom quote-based; typically starts at $80+/month base fee plus $4-5 per employee, with add-ons for HR and benefits.
UKG Pro
enterpriseDelivers advanced workforce management and payroll solutions for complex, multi-entity operations in large PSPs.
Configurable global payroll engine supporting 180+ countries with automated compliance updates
UKG Pro is a comprehensive cloud-based HCM platform with robust payroll processing capabilities, designed for mid-market to enterprise-level organizations and payroll service providers. It automates payroll calculations, tax compliance, direct deposits, and benefits integration across global workforces in over 180 countries. The solution offers advanced analytics, configurable rules engines, and seamless integration with HR, timekeeping, and talent management modules to streamline operations for high-volume payroll providers.
Pros
- Extensive global payroll compliance and multi-country support
- Powerful analytics and customizable reporting for payroll insights
- Seamless integrations with HCM ecosystem and third-party tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- High implementation time and costs for customization
- Premium pricing may not suit smaller providers
Best For
Payroll service providers managing complex, multinational payrolls for large enterprises with high compliance needs.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $100-$250 per employee per month depending on modules, workforce size, and customizations; requires quote.
Dayforce
enterpriseEnables continuous, AI-powered payroll calculation and HCM for efficient, accurate client payroll processing.
Continuous real-time payroll that calculates pay instantly as hours, benefits, and deductions change
Dayforce, from Ceridian, is a comprehensive cloud-based HCM platform with a robust payroll module that handles global payroll processing, tax compliance, and wage calculations in real-time. It integrates seamlessly with HR, benefits, time tracking, and talent management for a unified workforce management experience. Ideal for enterprises, it eliminates data silos through its single-database architecture, providing always-on pay accuracy and predictive insights.
Pros
- Unified single-database platform reduces errors and silos
- Real-time payroll processing with global multi-country support
- Advanced compliance automation and AI-driven workforce analytics
Cons
- Steep learning curve and lengthy implementation for new users
- High cost unsuitable for small businesses
- Customization requires significant vendor involvement
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with complex, multi-location payroll needs requiring integrated HCM functionality.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $15-30 per employee/month depending on modules and scale; enterprise-focused with no public tiers.
Paylocity
enterpriseModern payroll platform with custom analytics, employee self-service, and integrations for PSP client management.
Paylocity Community: A built-in social intranet for employee communication, recognition, and engagement that enhances retention and culture.
Paylocity is a comprehensive cloud-based payroll and HR platform designed for mid-sized businesses, offering automated payroll processing, tax compliance, and direct deposit capabilities. It integrates payroll with full HR functionalities like benefits administration, time and attendance tracking, onboarding, performance management, and talent acquisition. The platform emphasizes employee self-service through a user-friendly web portal and mobile app, enabling quick access to pay stubs, schedules, and requests.
Pros
- Robust all-in-one HR and payroll suite with seamless integrations
- Strong employee engagement tools including mobile app and self-service portal
- Excellent customer support and compliance automation
Cons
- Higher pricing suitable mainly for mid-sized firms, less ideal for small businesses
- Implementation can take several weeks with potential learning curve
- Some advanced customizations require additional modules or fees
Best For
Mid-sized companies (50-1000 employees) seeking an integrated payroll and HR solution with focus on employee experience and scalability.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $20-$40 per employee per month plus base fees and add-ons for extras like recruiting.
Workday
enterpriseCloud HCM suite featuring global payroll compliance and scalability for enterprise-level service providers.
Unified data model enabling real-time payroll processing and cross-functional visibility across HR, finance, and operations
Workday is a cloud-based enterprise platform specializing in human capital management (HCM), financials, and payroll solutions, with Workday Payroll offering robust processing for global workforces. It integrates seamlessly with HR and finance modules to handle payroll calculations, tax compliance, benefits deductions, and payments across multiple countries. Designed for large organizations, it provides real-time data insights and configurable workflows to streamline payroll operations while ensuring regulatory adherence.
Pros
- Seamless integration with HCM and financials for unified data management
- Comprehensive global payroll support across 70+ countries with localized compliance
- Advanced analytics and AI-driven insights for payroll forecasting and auditing
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation requiring significant training
- High cost structure unsuitable for small businesses
- Customization can lead to dependency on Workday consultants
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, multinational payroll needs that require tight integration between HR, finance, and payroll systems.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $100-$200 per employee per month for full HCM/Payroll suite, with minimums starting at $50,000-$100,000 annually for mid-sized organizations.
Rippling
enterpriseAll-in-one HR, payroll, and IT platform automating global payroll across multiple clients for growing PSPs.
Unified employee record that automatically triggers payroll, IT provisioning, app access, and benefits enrollment from a single change.
Rippling is a comprehensive workforce management platform that unifies HR, IT, payroll, and finance into a single system, automating employee lifecycle processes from onboarding to offboarding. Its payroll module handles multi-state U.S. payroll, tax compliance, benefits deductions, and international payroll in 100+ countries with direct deposit and currency support. Designed for modern businesses, it syncs real-time data across modules to minimize manual entry and errors.
Pros
- Seamless integration of payroll with HR, IT, and benefits for automated workflows
- Strong compliance tools including auto tax filings and multi-state/country support
- Real-time payroll processing with self-service employee portals
Cons
- Pricing can be expensive for small businesses or those needing only payroll
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customizations and integrations
- Limited advanced reporting compared to payroll specialists like ADP
Best For
Growing mid-sized tech-savvy companies needing an all-in-one platform for HR and payroll automation.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting at $8 per employee per month for core HR; payroll included in bundles, with add-ons for global or advanced features averaging $10-20 per employee monthly.
Gusto
enterpriseSimplifies SMB payroll with partner programs, benefits admin, and compliance tools for service providers.
Full-service payroll that handles all tax calculations, filings, and payments automatically
Gusto is an all-in-one payroll, HR, and benefits platform tailored for small to medium-sized businesses in the US. It automates payroll processing, tax calculations and filings, employee onboarding, time tracking, and benefits administration. The software ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations while integrating seamlessly with popular accounting tools like QuickBooks.
Pros
- Intuitive interface ideal for non-HR experts
- Full-service payroll with automated tax filing and compliance
- Strong integrations with accounting and benefits providers
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly for larger teams with add-ons
- Limited advanced reporting and analytics compared to enterprise solutions
- Primarily US-focused with minimal international support
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses seeking a user-friendly, all-in-one payroll and HR solution without needing in-house expertise.
Pricing
Starts at $40/month + $6/employee/month (Simple plan); Plus at $80/month + $12/employee/month; Premium custom pricing; contractor-only option at $35/month + $6/contractor/month.
Patriot Software
specializedSupports full-service payroll reselling with white-label options for accountants and small PSPs.
In-house, award-winning customer support team guaranteeing on-time tax filings with personal assistance
Patriot Software provides affordable, online payroll solutions designed primarily for small to medium-sized U.S. businesses. It offers basic and full-service payroll options that handle processing, tax calculations, filings, direct deposits, and W-2/1099 forms. Additional modules include HR tools, time & attendance tracking, and onboarding, all accessible via a cloud-based platform with strong emphasis on simplicity and support.
Pros
- Highly affordable pricing with transparent per-employee fees
- Intuitive interface that's quick to learn for non-experts
- Excellent in-house U.S.-based customer support with fast response times
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting and customization options
- Fewer third-party integrations compared to enterprise competitors
- Basic HR features may not scale well for larger teams
Best For
Small businesses and startups needing simple, cost-effective payroll without complex requirements.
Pricing
Basic Payroll: $17/month + $4/employee; Full Service Payroll: $37/month + $4/employee; additional fees for HR ($27+/month) and time tracking.
Payroll Relief
specializedDesktop payroll software designed specifically for payroll bureaus with bulk processing and client tracking.
Centralized multi-tenant dashboard for processing unlimited client payrolls with seamless tax relief automation
Payroll Relief is a payroll processing software tailored for accounting firms, tax professionals, and payroll service providers managing multiple clients. It automates payroll calculations, tax withholdings, direct deposits, and filings for federal, state, and local taxes across all 50 states. The platform also generates year-end forms like W-2s and 1099s, with built-in compliance updates to handle regulatory changes efficiently.
Pros
- Specialized multi-client management for accountants and payroll bureaus
- Robust automated tax filing and compliance for all states
- Scalable with unlimited payroll runs and strong expert support
Cons
- Dated user interface lacking modern SaaS polish
- Steeper learning curve for initial setup
- Limited integrations with broader HR or time-tracking tools
Best For
Accounting firms and payroll service providers handling payroll for dozens to hundreds of small-to-medium clients.
Pricing
Custom quotes based on clients and employees; typically $1.95-$2.95 per active employee per pay period plus base fees starting at $50/month.
Conclusion
The reviewed payroll service provider software each address distinct needs, from enterprise scalability and multi-entity management to SMB simplicity and white-label reselling. ADP emerges as the top choice, excelling in comprehensive, scalable solutions that serve the diverse demands of service providers. Paychex and UKG Pro follow, offering robust alternatives—Paychex for HR-integrated full-service processing and UKG Pro for complex operational efficiency—ensuring there’s a strong fit for various requirements.
Explore ADP to leverage its enterprise-grade capabilities, or consider Paychex or UKG Pro if your focus leans toward specific operational strengths—each tool delivers reliable performance to support successful payroll service operations.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison