1
G
Gusto
Modern payroll, benefits and HR for small businesses
- Automatic payroll tax filing
- Unlimited payroll runs
- Benefits, onboarding and HR tools
Updated October 2026 · tax filing · price per worker · HR tools
Compare the Best Payroll Software (2026)
Pay employees and contractors on time and let the software handle payroll taxes. Compare pricing, tax filing and HR features.
About 1 minto see your matches
Freeno cost or obligation
Facts checkedOctober 2026
Step 1
Free to use. No sign-up needed.
Providers
Featured payroll providers
2
AR
ADP RUN
Payroll from one of the largest payroll companies
- Payroll and tax filing for small businesses
- HR, benefits and compliance add-ons
- Scales to larger teams
3
QP
QuickBooks Payroll
Payroll that works inside QuickBooks Online
- Works directly with QuickBooks Online accounting
- Automatic payroll tax calculation and filing
- Faster direct deposit on higher plans
Our top picks, explained
Best user experience
G
Gusto
Payroll that most small business owners find easy to run.
Pros and cons
- Easy to use
- All-in-one payroll and HR
- Higher base price than budget options
Best for growing companies
AR
ADP RUN
A long-established option that grows with your business.
Pros and cons
- Scales as you grow
- Deep compliance resources
- Pricing isn't published
Best for QuickBooks users
QP
QuickBooks Payroll
Keeps payroll and accounting in one place for QuickBooks users.
Pros and cons
- Native QuickBooks integration
- Familiar interface
- Per-person fees run higher
Side-by-side comparison
G | AR | QP | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tax filing | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic |
| Payroll runs | Unlimited | Varies by plan | Unlimited |
| Contractors | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HR and benefits | Built in | Add-ons | Add-ons |
| Visit site | Visit site | Visit site |
Provider details were checked against public sources in October 2026; confirm current rates and terms with the provider. Listings may include providers that compensate The Top 10 Experts. Order and placement may be influenced by compensation. Advertiser disclosure.
Before you choose
What to compare
Use these points to compare any payroll provider, whether or not it appears on The Top 10 Experts.
Taxes
Automatic tax filing
Look for automatic federal, state and local payroll tax filing, including year-end W-2s and 1099s.
Pricing
Base fee plus per person
Most plans charge a monthly base fee plus a fee per employee or contractor.
Runs
Unlimited payroll runs
Some providers charge per payroll run, which adds up with bonuses and off-cycle payments.
HR
Benefits and HR tools
Health benefits, onboarding and time tracking may be included or cost extra.
Common questions
Do I need payroll software for one employee?
It isn't required, but it handles withholding and tax filings that are easy to get wrong.
Can payroll software pay contractors?
Most do, and they prepare 1099 forms at year end.
Does it work in every state?
Most major providers support all 50 states, sometimes for an extra fee per state.
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