Quick Overview
- 1#1: Rippling - All-in-one HR platform that automates PTO accrual, requests, approvals, and balances across global teams.
- 2#2: BambooHR - Cloud-based HR software providing customizable PTO policies, accrual tracking, and self-service requests.
- 3#3: Gusto - Payroll and HR tool that simplifies PTO tracking, accruals, and compliance for small to medium businesses.
- 4#4: Zenefits - HR platform offering automated PTO management, unlimited policy support, and seamless integrations.
- 5#5: Paylocity - Comprehensive HR solution with advanced PTO request workflows, mobile approvals, and reporting.
- 6#6: VacationTracker - Dedicated PTO tracking app that integrates with Slack, Teams, and calendars for easy leave management.
- 7#7: UKG Pro - Enterprise workforce management software with sophisticated PTO accrual rules and absence forecasting.
- 8#8: Workday - Cloud HCM platform delivering global PTO management, compliance, and analytics for large organizations.
- 9#9: ADP Workforce Now - HR and payroll system featuring PTO tracking, automated accruals, and employee self-service portals.
- 10#10: Homebase - Free scheduling tool with simple PTO request and approval features for small teams and hourly workers.
We selected and ranked these tools by prioritizing feature depth (including automation and customization), user-friendliness, technical reliability, and value, ensuring a comprehensive mix of solutions for enterprises and small businesses alike.
Comparison Table
PTO tracking software simplifies time-off management, and this comparison table explores tools like Rippling, BambooHR, Gusto, Zenefits, Paylocity, and more, outlining key features, pricing, and usability to help businesses select the right fit.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rippling All-in-one HR platform that automates PTO accrual, requests, approvals, and balances across global teams. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | BambooHR Cloud-based HR software providing customizable PTO policies, accrual tracking, and self-service requests. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Gusto Payroll and HR tool that simplifies PTO tracking, accruals, and compliance for small to medium businesses. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | Zenefits HR platform offering automated PTO management, unlimited policy support, and seamless integrations. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 5 | Paylocity Comprehensive HR solution with advanced PTO request workflows, mobile approvals, and reporting. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 6 | VacationTracker Dedicated PTO tracking app that integrates with Slack, Teams, and calendars for easy leave management. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 7 | UKG Pro Enterprise workforce management software with sophisticated PTO accrual rules and absence forecasting. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | Workday Cloud HCM platform delivering global PTO management, compliance, and analytics for large organizations. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 6.8/10 |
| 9 | ADP Workforce Now HR and payroll system featuring PTO tracking, automated accruals, and employee self-service portals. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 10 | Homebase Free scheduling tool with simple PTO request and approval features for small teams and hourly workers. | specialized | 6.8/10 | 6.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
All-in-one HR platform that automates PTO accrual, requests, approvals, and balances across global teams.
Cloud-based HR software providing customizable PTO policies, accrual tracking, and self-service requests.
Payroll and HR tool that simplifies PTO tracking, accruals, and compliance for small to medium businesses.
HR platform offering automated PTO management, unlimited policy support, and seamless integrations.
Comprehensive HR solution with advanced PTO request workflows, mobile approvals, and reporting.
Dedicated PTO tracking app that integrates with Slack, Teams, and calendars for easy leave management.
Enterprise workforce management software with sophisticated PTO accrual rules and absence forecasting.
Cloud HCM platform delivering global PTO management, compliance, and analytics for large organizations.
HR and payroll system featuring PTO tracking, automated accruals, and employee self-service portals.
Free scheduling tool with simple PTO request and approval features for small teams and hourly workers.
Rippling
enterpriseAll-in-one HR platform that automates PTO accrual, requests, approvals, and balances across global teams.
Real-time PTO balance syncing across payroll, HRIS, and employee self-service, eliminating manual reconciliation errors.
Rippling is an all-in-one HR, payroll, and IT platform that provides robust PTO tracking capabilities, automating accrual calculations, time-off requests, approvals, and balance syncing directly with payroll. It supports unlimited PTO policies, carryover rules, and compliance with global regulations, making it seamless for diverse teams. The self-service portal and mobile app empower employees to manage their PTO effortlessly while admins gain real-time visibility and reporting.
Pros
- Seamless integration with payroll for automatic PTO deductions and accurate accruals
- Unlimited customizable PTO policies with advanced rules for carryover and compliance
- Intuitive self-service interface and mobile app for employee requests and manager approvals
Cons
- Pricing can escalate quickly for full-suite features beyond core HR
- Steeper initial setup for complex multi-policy configurations
- Overkill for very small teams not needing broader HR/IT tools
Best For
Mid-sized to enterprise companies seeking an integrated HR platform with top-tier PTO automation and scalability.
Pricing
Starts at $8 per user/month for core HR (billed annually); full payroll and PTO features from $11/user/month, with custom enterprise pricing.
BambooHR
enterpriseCloud-based HR software providing customizable PTO policies, accrual tracking, and self-service requests.
Advanced PTO policy engine supporting unlimited custom accrual schedules, waiting periods, and multi-plan configurations
BambooHR is a full-featured HR management platform with robust PTO tracking capabilities, enabling automated accrual calculations, time-off requests, approvals, and balance management. It supports customizable policies for various accrual types, carryovers, and pro-rated balances, integrating seamlessly with payroll and other HR functions. Ideal for growing teams, it provides real-time visibility into PTO usage via dashboards and reports.
Pros
- Highly customizable accrual rules and policy support
- Seamless integration with payroll and HR tools
- User-friendly mobile app for requests and approvals
Cons
- Pricing scales with employee count, costly for small teams
- Full value requires adopting the broader HR suite
- Setup may need admin configuration for complex policies
Best For
Mid-sized companies seeking integrated HR and PTO management without needing a standalone tool.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $6-12 per employee/month (billed annually) with setup fees.
Gusto
enterprisePayroll and HR tool that simplifies PTO tracking, accruals, and compliance for small to medium businesses.
Direct payroll integration that automatically applies PTO balances to paychecks, reducing manual errors
Gusto is a comprehensive payroll and HR platform for small to medium-sized businesses that includes built-in PTO tracking features. It supports customizable accrual policies based on tenure, hours worked, or fixed amounts, along with employee self-service for viewing balances and submitting time-off requests with manager approvals. The system seamlessly integrates PTO deductions into payroll runs, providing accurate pay processing and compliance reporting for US-based companies.
Pros
- Seamless integration with payroll for automatic PTO pay deductions
- User-friendly interface with mobile app for employee requests and balance checks
- Customizable accrual rules and automated carryover handling
Cons
- Limited advanced features for complex multi-state or international PTO policies
- Reporting capabilities are basic compared to dedicated leave management tools
- Pricing scales with employee count, which can become costly for larger teams
Best For
Small to medium US-based businesses seeking an all-in-one payroll and PTO solution without needing separate software.
Pricing
Starts at $40/month base + $6/employee for Simple plan (includes PTO); Plus plan $80 + $12/employee; Premium is custom quote.
Zenefits
enterpriseHR platform offering automated PTO management, unlimited policy support, and seamless integrations.
Automatic PTO accrual syncing directly with payroll deductions
Zenefits is an all-in-one HR platform that offers integrated PTO tracking as part of its employee management suite, enabling accrual calculations, request submissions, and manager approvals. It syncs PTO data with payroll and benefits administration for streamlined operations. The tool supports customizable policies, balance tracking, and mobile access for employees.
Pros
- Seamless integration with payroll and benefits
- Customizable accrual rules and policy enforcement
- Mobile app for easy PTO requests and approvals
Cons
- Per-employee pricing can be costly for small teams using only PTO features
- Full platform has a steeper learning curve than dedicated PTO tools
- Some advanced reporting requires higher-tier plans
Best For
Small to mid-sized businesses seeking an integrated HR solution with reliable PTO tracking.
Pricing
Starts at $8 per active employee per month for core HR (PTO included); higher plans up to $12+ for advanced features.
Paylocity
enterpriseComprehensive HR solution with advanced PTO request workflows, mobile approvals, and reporting.
Sophisticated accrual policy builder that automates complex PTO rules across unlimited policies
Paylocity is a comprehensive human capital management (HCM) platform that includes robust PTO tracking features as part of its broader HR suite. It enables automated accrual management, employee self-service requests, manager approvals, and real-time balance visibility through a web portal and mobile app. The system integrates seamlessly with payroll and benefits, ensuring accurate time-off tracking and compliance with various policies.
Pros
- Advanced accrual engines supporting complex rules like pro-rating and carryover
- Seamless integration with payroll for accurate pay adjustments
- Mobile app for on-the-go requests and balance checks
Cons
- High pricing makes it less ideal for small businesses
- Steep learning curve due to extensive feature set
- Customization requires IT involvement or vendor support
Best For
Mid-sized to enterprise-level companies seeking an integrated HCM solution with reliable PTO management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $20-30 per employee per month for the full suite including PTO tracking.
VacationTracker
specializedDedicated PTO tracking app that integrates with Slack, Teams, and calendars for easy leave management.
Direct PTO requests and approvals without leaving Slack or Microsoft Teams
VacationTracker is a user-friendly PTO tracking software that enables employees to request, approve, and manage time off directly within Slack, Microsoft Teams, or email integrations. It supports customizable accrual policies, balance tracking, and automated reminders to ensure compliance across global teams. The tool provides insightful reports on PTO usage and carryover, making it ideal for modern, distributed workforces.
Pros
- Seamless integrations with Slack, Teams, Google Workspace, and Outlook for effortless PTO requests
- Highly customizable accrual rules and policy support for various leave types
- Intuitive interface with real-time balance visibility and automated notifications
Cons
- Reporting capabilities are solid but lack advanced analytics found in enterprise competitors
- No dedicated mobile app, relying on web or chat interfaces
- Pricing scales linearly, which can become costly for very large organizations
Best For
Small to medium-sized remote or hybrid teams relying on Slack or Teams for daily communication and seeking simple, integrated PTO management.
Pricing
Starts at $6/user/month (billed annually) for Basic plan; Pro at $12/user/month with advanced features; free trial available.
UKG Pro
enterpriseEnterprise workforce management software with sophisticated PTO accrual rules and absence forecasting.
Advanced accrual engine supporting intricate, location-specific policies and automatic compliance adjustments
UKG Pro is an enterprise-grade human capital management (HCM) platform from UKG that offers comprehensive PTO tracking as part of its workforce management suite. It enables automated accrual calculations based on complex rules, employee self-service for requests and balance viewing, and manager approvals with seamless integration into payroll and scheduling. The system supports compliance with diverse regulations, multi-location policies, and provides real-time reporting for PTO usage.
Pros
- Highly customizable accrual rules and policy management for complex enterprise needs
- Seamless integration with payroll, timekeeping, and scheduling for accurate PTO tracking
- Mobile accessibility and self-service portals for employees and managers
Cons
- Steep implementation process and long setup time
- High cost that may not suit small to mid-sized businesses
- Interface can feel overwhelming due to extensive features
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, multi-location workforces needing integrated HCM and PTO management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $10,000+ per month for mid-to-large organizations, depending on modules and user count.
Workday
enterpriseCloud HCM platform delivering global PTO management, compliance, and analytics for large organizations.
Advanced, rules-based accrual engine that handles complex, multi-tiered PTO policies automatically
Workday is a comprehensive enterprise cloud platform for HR and finance, with robust PTO tracking embedded in its Human Capital Management (HCM) module. It enables automated accrual management, self-service leave requests, approvals, and real-time balance visibility for employees and managers. The system supports complex leave policies, compliance tracking, and seamless integration with payroll and benefits administration.
Pros
- Highly configurable accrual rules for various leave types and eligibility
- Deep integration with payroll, benefits, and other HR functions
- Mobile accessibility and real-time reporting dashboards
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex setup for non-enterprise users
- Premium pricing not suitable for small businesses
- Overly feature-rich for basic PTO needs
Best For
Large enterprises requiring integrated HCM with advanced, scalable PTO management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $100+ per employee per year, quote-based with implementation fees.
ADP Workforce Now
enterpriseHR and payroll system featuring PTO tracking, automated accruals, and employee self-service portals.
Sophisticated multi-tiered accrual engine that handles prorated, front-loaded, and milestone-based PTO policies with automatic compliance adjustments.
ADP Workforce Now is a comprehensive human capital management (HCM) platform that includes robust PTO tracking features as part of its broader HR suite. It automates accrual calculations based on customizable rules, handles time-off requests and approvals via web and mobile, and integrates seamlessly with payroll and time tracking for accurate balance management. The system supports compliance with various leave policies and provides detailed reporting on PTO usage and forecasts.
Pros
- Highly customizable accrual rules for complex PTO policies
- Seamless integration with payroll and time tracking
- Advanced reporting and analytics for PTO trends
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface
- High implementation time and costs
- Overkill for small businesses focused solely on PTO
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises seeking an integrated HCM solution with enterprise-grade PTO management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $100-$200+ per employee per month depending on modules and company size.
Homebase
specializedFree scheduling tool with simple PTO request and approval features for small teams and hourly workers.
Automatic schedule conflict detection when PTO requests are submitted
Homebase is an all-in-one employee management platform primarily focused on scheduling, time tracking, and communication, with built-in PTO tracking features for small businesses. Employees can submit time-off requests via mobile app, managers approve or deny with one tap, and the system syncs PTO with schedules to highlight coverage gaps. It offers basic accrual tracking and balance visibility but lacks advanced policy customization found in dedicated PTO tools.
Pros
- Seamless integration with scheduling to avoid staffing conflicts
- Intuitive mobile app for quick PTO requests and approvals
- Free plan includes core PTO functionality for small teams
Cons
- Limited accrual rules and policy options compared to specialized tools
- PTO features feel secondary to core scheduling focus
- Reporting and analytics for PTO usage are basic
Best For
Small retail or hourly businesses already using Homebase for scheduling who need simple, integrated PTO tracking.
Pricing
Free plan with basic PTO; Essentials at $29.99/location/month (up to 20 employees); Premium at $59.99/location/month for advanced features.
Conclusion
Rippling emerges as the top choice, excelling with its all-in-one HR platform that automates PTO across global teams. BambooHR and Gusto follow strongly, offering distinct strengths: BambooHR with customizable policies, and Gusto simplifying tracking for small to medium businesses. Regardless of team size or needs, the reviewed tools effectively streamline PTO management.
Take the first step to smarter PTO tracking—try Rippling now to experience seamless accrual, requests, and approval workflows.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison