Best Payroll Services of 2025

Last Updated: November, 2025

Woman in White T-shirt Holding Smartphone in Front of Laptop
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SurePayroll
25+ Years Experience
Outstanding
9.5
Editor's Choice
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Paychex
Full-Service Payroll
Outstanding
9.8
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Gusto
Award-Winning Payroll
Excellent
9.2
Award-Winning
1
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9.8

5 out of 5 stars

Outstanding
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Get 3 Months Free
All-In-One Payroll, HR & Benefits
Small Business Compliance Experts
Automatically Calculate, Pay & File Taxes
24/7 US-Based Support
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HR & Benefits Integration
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Mobile App
Visit SiteView Plans
Chosen by Over 4972 Users This Week!
2
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9.5

4.5 out of 5 stars

Outstanding
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Free 2-Day Direct Deposit
Quick and Easy Setup
Benefits & Compliance
100% Guarantee on Tax Calculations
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Data & Analytics
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Unlimited Payroll Runs
3
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9.2

4 out of 5 stars

Excellent
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Get 1 Month Free
Unlimited & Automated Runs
Automated Tax Filings - Federal, State, and Local
Transparent Pricing
4
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9.0

4 out of 5 stars

Excellent
Run Unlimited Payroll
Simple Transparent Pricing
Free Migration and Setup
5
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8.8

3.5 out of 5 stars

Very Good
Automated Routine Tasks
Payroll Tax Compliance
Trusted by 40K Businesses
6
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8.5

3.5 out of 5 stars

Good
Direct Deposits 
For Businesses of All Sizes
Dedicated Customer Support
Editor's Top Pick:
Our Most Popular
1
paychex_1400x.png
9.8

5 out of 5 stars

Outstanding
6371626.png
Get 3 Months Free
All-In-One Payroll, HR & Benefits
Small Business Compliance Experts
Automatically Calculate, Pay & File Taxes
24/7 US-Based Support
760887.png
HR & Benefits Integration
915819.png
Mobile App
Visit SiteView Plans
Chosen by Over 4972 Users This Week!
Compare Top Payroll Software:
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paychex.jpeg
Paychex
Trusted by 740k+ Businesses
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Sure small logo.jpeg
SurePayroll
25+ Years Experience
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Gusto
Intuitive, Cloud-Based Interface
Complete Guide to Payroll Services & Software

Running payroll isn’t just about paying employees on time—it’s about accuracy, compliance, and creating a seamless experience for both employers and staff. Modern payroll platforms go far beyond cutting checks. They automate tax calculations, file payroll taxes, track PTO, manage benefits, and integrate with time-tracking and accounting systems. Many also offer employee self-service portals so your team can access pay stubs, tax forms, and benefits information without needing HR to step in.
Benefits of Using Payroll Software
Save Time
Automate repetitive payroll tasks so you can focus on running your business.
Improve Accuracy
Reduce human error with built-in tax calculations and compliance checks.
Stay Compliant
Avoid fines by meeting filing deadlines and following changing tax laws.
Enhance Employee Experience
Give staff easy access to pay and benefits information.
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Key Features to Look for in Payroll Services
Automated Tax Filing & Compliance
The best payroll software automatically calculates, withholds, and files federal, state, and local payroll taxes, reducing the risk of penalties.
Direct Deposit & Payment Flexibility
Pay employees quickly via direct deposit, paper checks, or even pay cards.
Employee Self-Service Portals
Let employees view pay history, update information, and download tax forms at any time.
Integration with Accounting & HR Tools
Sync payroll data with accounting software, time clocks, and benefits platforms to streamline admin work.
Scalability
Choose a platform that can grow with your business, adding features like benefits management, workers’ comp, and multi-state payroll as needed.
Robust Reporting
Access real-time payroll reports for cash flow tracking, labor cost analysis, and compliance audits.

Pros vs. Cons

Top 3 Payroll Services:
1
Pros
Streamlines payroll, benefits, and HR management
Access to top-tier health insurance and retirement plans
Ensures adherence to federal, state, and local regulations
Dedicated specialists for payroll, benefits, and workplace safety
Flexible services that grow with your business
Cons
More expensive than in-house HR for some businesses
Co-employment model may limit autonomy over HR decisions
2
Pros
Cost-effective for small businesses and startups
Simple, intuitive platform
Automated tax filing services included
Convenient mobile payroll app
Reliable support with knowledgeable representatives
Cons
Some advanced features available as adds-on
Fewer integration options compared to other providers
3
Pros
Intuitive interface simplifies payroll, benefits, and HR tasks
Tax filings, new hire reporting, and benefits are automated
Access health benefits, 401(k), and workers' compensation through partnerships
Manage personal details, tax forms, and benefits
Supports multiple pay schedules and rates
Cons
Live support is available, but some users report delays during peak times
May lack industry-specific features for larger businesses

Frequently Asked Questions
What are payroll services?
How do payroll services work?
Why should small businesses use payroll services?
What should I look for when choosing payroll service?
Can payroll services help with tax compliance?
Our Most Popular
Paychex_logo_(2).svg.png
Used by 750k+ Businesses
9.8

5 out of 5 stars

Outstanding
SurePayroll_logo_v2.svg
Suited For Small Businesses
9.5

4.5 out of 5 stars

Outstanding
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Transparent, Tiered Pricing
9.2

4 out of 5 stars

Excellent