22 Best Direct Deposit Payroll Software Reviewed In 2024
Best Direct Deposit Payroll Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 22 tools reviewed.
Get free help from our HR software advisors to find your match.
With so many direct deposit payroll software options available, choosing the right one is tough. You want to simplify payroll processing and ensure timely payments but need to figure out which tool is best.
Using my extended experience in HR software and people management, I tested and compared several of the top direct deposit payroll software solutions on the market. From there, I compiled my insights into in-depth reviews to help teams in their search. Whether you’re a SMB or a large corporation, I’m confident that you’ll be able to find your next payroll software in this article.
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Best Direct Deposit Payroll Software Summary
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Deel | Flat rate user pricing, with a free version for businesses with up to 200 people | Website |
| RUN Powered by ADP | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Square Payroll | From $6/user/month + $35/month base fee | Website |
| Patriot Payroll | From $4/employee/month + $17/month base fee | Website |
| Payworks | From $44/employee/month | Website |
| Rise Payroll | From $8/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| ConnectPay | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Wave | From $14/month | Website |
| Rippling | From $8/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Buddy Punch | From $3.99/user/month + $19/month base fee | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareHow to Choose a Direct Deposit Payroll Software
As you work through your unique software selection process, keep the following points in mind:
- Integration Capabilities: When selecting direct deposit payroll software, it's important to ensure that it integrates seamlessly with your existing systems such as HR, accounting, and time-tracking software. This helps to reduce manual data entry, minimizes errors, and streamlines operations.
- Tax Compliance and Automation: Payroll tax compliance is a significant pain point for many businesses. The right payroll software should automate tax calculations, withholdings, and filings to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. Additionally, the software should automatically update tax tables and file necessary documents to prevent costly penalties and save administrative time.
- Scalability: Your business needs today might not be the same tomorrow, so choose a payroll software that can scale with your business as it grows. Whether you have a small team now but plan to expand, or you operate in multiple locations, the software should accommodate increasing numbers of employees and more complex payroll requirements.
- User-Friendliness and Mobile Access: Ease of use is vital in payroll software. A user-friendly interface ensures payroll administrators can quickly learn and efficiently use the system, reducing the likelihood of errors. Additionally, mobile access allows payroll processing from anywhere, which is particularly useful for businesses with remote or on-the-go employees.
- Security Features: Handling sensitive employee data requires powerful security measures. Ensure that the payroll software offers features like data encryption, multi-factor authentication, and limited access permissions to protect against data breaches and unauthorized access.
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Deel
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8 -
Rippling
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8 -
Willo
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8
Best Direct Deposit Payroll Software Reviews
This section provides an in-depth analysis and overview of each direct deposit payroll software. Below, we will walk through each tool’s pros and cons, features, and best use cases.
Deel is a global HR platform that simplifies managing a global team for businesses, offering tools and guidance for hiring, payroll, and compliance.
Why I picked Deel: Deel simplifies the complexities of international payroll, making it easy for companies to pay their employees via direct deposit, no matter where they are located. With Deel, businesses can manage payroll in multiple currencies. Additionally, the platform’s ability to handle compliance with local tax laws and labor regulations further enhances its appeal, making it an essential tool for companies with a diverse, global team.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated payroll processing, expense management, contract generation, benefits administration, time-off tracking, tax form generation, employee self-service portal, multi-language support, customizable payroll reports, compliance management, onboarding tools, currency conversion, and localized payslips.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, Gusto, Rippling, BambooHR, Workday, ADP, SAP SuccessFactors, NetSuite, Slack, Trello, Asana, Google Workspace, Microsoft Office 365, HubSpot, and Greenhouse.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automated payroll processing
- In-house visa support
- Fast setup process
Cons:
- Could have more customization options
- No mobile app
RUN by ADP is a payroll and HR software solution tailored for small businesses with fewer than 50 employees. It offers services such as payroll processing, tax compliance, time and attendance management, and compliance services.
Why I picked RUN by ADP: One of the key features of RUN by ADP is its automated payroll processing, which ensures that payroll is calculated accurately and on time. This automation extends to tax calculations and filings, reducing the risk of errors and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local tax regulations. The software also supports direct deposit, allowing employees to receive their wages quickly and securely, which enhances employee satisfaction and reduces the administrative burden on HR departments.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include an employee self-service portal, HR compliance support, time and attendance tracking, garnishment payment services, new hire reporting, retirement plan services, workers' compensation management, payroll and tax reports, and mobile app access.
Integrations include Quickbooks, Wave, Xero, ClockShark, Points North, TruSaic, Compy, Wex, Synerion, JazzHR, 7Shifts, Snappy Gifts, Absorb LMS, SmartRecruiters, and hundreds more.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Good mobile app
- Employee self-service portal
- Customizable, in-depth reporting options
Cons:
- Most HR functions are only available on higher-tier plans
- Initial setup can be complex
Square Payroll is an advanced, full-service payroll software that integrates with Square's POS system, making it ideal for businesses looking to run payroll and point-of-sale operations.
Why I picked Square Payroll: Square Payroll offers a seamless integration with Square’s POS system, making the software a perfect combination for retail and service businesses. This integration streamlines payroll management by automatically syncing sales and employee hours, reducing manual entry and errors. It also offers automatic tax calculations and filings, benefits management, and flexible payment options, enhancing employee satisfaction.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automatic tax calculations and filings, employee benefits management, direct deposit and same-day payments, timecard synchronization, new hire reporting, automated wage garnishments, flexible payment schedules, and access to 24/7 customer support.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, TSheets, Homebase, Deputy, Gusto, ZipRecruiter, Google Workspace, 7shifts, and Square POS.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Employee benefits management
- Flexible payment options
- Easy POS integration
Cons:
- Limited third-party integrations
- Requires Square POS System
Patriot Payroll is an online payroll software that offers affordable payroll services with free direct deposit, making it a popular choice for small businesses.
Why I picked Patriot Payroll: I chose Patriot Payroll for its direct deposit payroll software because it offers affordable payroll solutions with free direct deposit, unlimited payrolls, and a user-friendly interface. It offers free 2-day direct deposit for qualified customers, or free 4-day direct deposit at a minimum, making it an affordable direct deposit option for businesses of all sizes.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a simple three-step process for running payroll, free payroll setup, US-based support, customizable time-off accrual rules, free direct deposit with 2-day processing, tracking reported tips, multiple pay rates for hourly employees, and free 401(k) integration with exclusive discount pricing, making it easy for businesses to automate payroll processes, track employee benefits, and integrate with other financial services.
Integrations include Patriot Accounting, QuickBooks Online, QuickBooks Time, Plaid, and Workforce Time & Attendance.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Combined payroll for employees and contractors
- Budget-friendly plans
- Free direct deposit
Cons:
- Some manual data entry required
- Only available for US-based businesses
Payworks is an advanced payroll solution that combines direct deposit, benefits administration, and time management for seamless and efficient HR operations. Its integrated approach ensures streamlined processes and accurate payroll management.
Why I picked Payworks: Payworks offers advanced features such as automated payroll calculations, compliance management, and real-time reporting, all integrated with employee benefits administration. It provides extensive customization options to cater to the needs of different businesses, ensuring flexibility and scalability. Additionally, the software promises data protection and accessibility, enhancing operational efficiency.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include direct deposit, an employee self-service portal, multi-jurisdiction payroll capabilities, time and attendance tracking, smooth integration with accounting systems, garnishment management, mobile accessibility, and dedicated customer support.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Sage, Xero, ADP, Ceridian, Kronos, BambooHR, Workday, SAP, and Oracle.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Secure cloud-based platform
- Detailed audit trails
- Multi-regional payroll capabilities
Cons:
- Additional costs for customization
- Limited offline capabilities
Rise Payroll is an advanced HR platform that provides payroll, benefits, and workforce management solutions for businesses.
Why I picked Rise Payroll: Rise Payroll streamlines multiple HR functions into one platform, enhancing efficiency and coordination across the organization. It has reporting and employee self-service features that provide control and transparency, compliance management for relevant regulations and reduces the risk of penalties, and customizable workflows for adaptability to different needs. These HR features and integration capabilities are ideal for businesses looking to optimize their HR and payroll processes.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include direct deposit, automated payroll processing, benefits administration, and talent management tools. The platform also offers employee self-service options and strong reporting and analytics capabilities.
Integrations include Xero, QuickBooks, BambooHR, Deputy, Greenhouse, JazzHR, Slack, Google Calendar, Microsoft Outlook, and Zapier.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customizable and flexible workflows
- High adoption rate
- All-in-one HR solution
Cons:
- Limited mobile app functionality
- Occasional system slowness
ConnectPay provides personalized payroll solutions with direct deposit, automated tax filing, and dedicated payroll support for small businesses.
Why I picked ConnectPay: ConnectPay provides users with personalized payroll support, ensuring tailored solutions and services that many automated systems lack. This approach helps businesses navigate complex payroll processes and compliance issues with expert assistance. It also offers self-service features, allowing employees to access pay stubs and tax documents, and integrates with accounting and time-tracking tools for an efficient workflow. This service is suitable for businesses seeking a more hands-on approach to payroll management.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include direct deposit service, automated tax filing, and dedicated payroll specialists for personalized support. The platform also offers compliance management and integration with various accounting and time-tracking tools.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, TSheets, Gusto, BambooHR, Deputy, Homebase, When I Work, ADP, and Paychex.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Employee self-service
- Tailored solutions to business needs
- Dedicated payroll specialists for personalized support
Cons:
- Not suitable for international payroll
- Requires more interaction and time
Wave is an advanced financial tool for small businesses, providing direct deposit payroll services integrated with accounting and invoicing functionalities.
Why I picked Wave: Wave is a powerful financial tool that integrates payroll, accounting, and invoicing, allowing seamless financial management. The software automates payroll processes, manages direct deposits, and handles tax filings, making it an ideal choice for small business owners looking for an all-in-one financial management solution. Wave also offers real-time transaction syncing, detailed financial reporting, customizable invoicing, and personalized assistance and support.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include direct deposit, automated payroll processing, tax filing capabilities, and integrated accounting and invoicing tools.
Integrations include PayPal, Etsy, Shoeboxed, Google Sheets, HubSpot, Zapier, Mailchimp, Slack, QuickBooks, and Shopify.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time transaction syncing
- Customizable invoicing
- Integrated financial tools
Cons:
- No advanced HR tools
- Basic reporting features
Rippling is a workforce management system that offers HR, IT, and finance cloud platforms to automate various aspects of employee management into a single platform, streamlining operations and improving efficiency.
Why I picked Rippling: Rippling has automated tax filing, benefits administration, time and attendance tracking, and expense management, in a single platform. This integration reduces administrative workload, enhances data accuracy, and ensures compliance across all functions. The software also supports global payroll capabilities, allowing businesses to process payroll for employees and contractors worldwide, along with local tax compliance and multi-currency support.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include direct deposit, payroll management, global payroll, recruiting, learning management, and time and attendance tracking. It also offers performance management and benefits administration.
Integrations include Google Workspace, Checkr, Slack, Zoom, Microsoft 365, Jira, AWS, Github, Brex, Carta, and Paypal.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Offers PEO services
- Expense management integration
- Unified workforce management
Cons:
- Slow customer support response
- Limited language support
Buddy Punch is an advanced payroll tool that simplifies employee scheduling and time tracking with features like GPS tracking and customizable reports.
Why I picked Buddy Punch: Buddy Punch provides simple time-tracking and payroll processing features, ensuring accurate and timely payments. The software includes GPS tracking, webcam verification, and customizable reporting, enhancing accuracy and accountability. For convenience, it also offers automated overtime calculations, PTO tracking, and mobile access, making it a standout choice for businesses looking for efficient and reliable payroll software.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include direct deposit, GPS tracking, geofencing, customizable reports, and real-time monitoring of employee hours. It also provides tools for managing paid and unpaid time off.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Paychex, Workday, ADP, Gusto, Paylocity, SurePayroll, Xero, BambooHR, and Zapier.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Convenient employee self-service
- Automated calculations
- Advanced time tracking
Cons:
- Complex customization
- Limited HR features
Other Direct Deposit Payroll Software
Below is a list of additional direct deposit payroll software that I shortlisted. While they didn’t make the top 10, they’re still valuable and worth further research.
- BambooHR
For integrated HR and payroll
- OnPay
For comprehensive payroll management
- Paycor
For streamlined payroll and HR processing
- Papaya Global
For global payroll compliance
- Remote
For remote team payroll
- Gusto
For small business payroll automation
- Humi
For Canadian businesses
- Plooto
For automated payments
- ADP
For scalable payroll solutions
- QuickBooks
For integrated accounting and payroll
- Oyster
For global hiring
- Wagepoint
For small businesses
Related HR Software Reviews
If you still haven't found what you're looking for here, check out these other related tools that we've tested and evaluated:
- HR Software
- Payroll Software
- Recruiting Software
- Employer of Record Services
- Applicant Tracking Systems
- Workforce Management Software
Direct Deposit Payroll Software Selection Criteria
The criteria for choosing a direct deposit payroll software should directly address buyer needs and common pain points, ensuring that the software serves its intended purpose effectively. As an expert who has personally tried and researched these tools, here are the requirements I use when evaluating software:
Core Functionality (25% of total score):
- Ensures timely and accurate payroll calculations for employees, including full-time, part-time, and contractors
- Facilitates seamless payment to employees by directly depositing their wages into their bank accounts
- Automatically calculates, files, and pays federal, state, and local taxes to ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements
- Empowers employees to manage their payroll-related tasks through a self-service portal, allowing access to payslips and update personal information
- Provides detailed payroll reports and advanced analytics to offer insights into payroll expenses, trends, and compliance
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score):
- Smooth integration of payroll data with accounting software to ensure accurate financial records
- Convenient mobile app access for administrators and employees to handle payroll tasks from smartphones
- Customized reports on payroll data, employee hours, and compliance metrics to meet business needs
- Advanced security features to protect sensitive payroll data, including encryption, multi-factor authentication, and role-based access control
- Innovative features like automated tax filing and compliance alerts to keep businesses compliant with tax regulations
Usability (10% of total score):
- Visually appealing and user-friendly interface that simplifies the user experience
- Well-organized menus and clearly labeled options to help users find the information and tools they need
- A clear and concise dashboard that provides an overview of essential information
- Easily understandable and usable interface design for a minimal learning curve
- Customizable reports with drag-and-drop functionality, allowing users to create the desired format easily
Onboarding (10% of total score):
- Offers an advanced library of training videos to guide users through various features and functions of the software
- Provides interactive product tours that explain the software’s key features and functionalities
- Utilizes chatbots to provide instant support and answer user queries in real time
- Hosts webinars that offer in-depth training sessions on various aspects of the software
- Includes pre-built templates that allow users to quickly set up and start using the software
Customer Support (10% of total score):
- Round-the-clock customer support to assist users with any issues they may encounter
- A variety of support channels, including phone, email, and chat to accommodate different user preferences and needs
- Dedicated account managers to provide personalized support and account management services
- A comprehensive help center, including resources such as FAQs, user guides, tutorials, and troubleshooting articles
- Fast response times for all support inquiries
Value for Price (10% of total score):
- Competitive pricing that provides good value for the features and services include
- Clear and straightforward pricing structure that details what is included in each plan or service level
- Provides costs upfront with no hidden fees and unexpected charges
- Scalable pricing plans that can grow the business, allowing users to upgrade and adjust as their needs increase
- Offers a free trial or demo of the software, allowing potential customers to experience its features before committing
Customer Reviews (10% of total score):
- High overall satisfaction ratings from users
- Positive feedback related to the software’s ease of use
- Positive comments about the customer support provided
- Reviews highlighting the effectiveness of specific features within the software
- Positive user testimonials on the value for money offered by the software
Trends for Direct Deposit Payroll Software
Here are some trends I’ve noticed for direct deposit payroll software, plus what they might mean for the future of the HR industry. I sourced countless product updates, press releases, and release logs to tease out the most important insights.
- AI-Powered Payroll Processing: AI is being integrated into payroll software to reduce errors, automate complex calculations, and handle large data sets efficiently. It’s important because it saves time and reduces the risk of human error.
- Blockchain for Enhanced Security: Blockchain technology is used to secure payroll transactions. It provides a transparent and tamper-proof ledger vital for preventing fraud and ensuring data integrity.
- Mobile Accessibility: Payroll software is increasingly accessible via mobile devices. Employees can now check their pay stubs and manage their information on the go, improving employee convenience and engagement.
- Real-Time Payment Options: Some payroll systems now offer real-time payment options. Employees can access their earnings immediately after a shift, promoting financial flexibility and employee satisfaction.
- Integration with Financial Wellness Tools: Payroll software can be integrated with financial wellness tools. These tools help employees manage their finances and plan for the future.
These trends indicate a shift towards more integrated systems that combine payroll with comprehensive HR functions, ensuring seamless operations and enhanced employee satisfaction. Adopting these changes can lead to improved accuracy, reduced processing time, and a more efficient payroll experience for businesses of all sizes.
What is Direct Deposit Payroll Software?
Direct deposit payroll software automates the process of transferring employees' salaries directly into their bank accounts, eliminating the need for physical checks. This ensures timely and accurate payments while streamlining payroll management for employers.
Most payroll software that offer direct deposit also provide payroll calculation, tax computation, and bank integration. Other extended features can include employee self-service portals, compliance management, and reporting tools to streamline payroll operations.
Features of Direct Deposit Payroll Software
When shopping for a direct deposit payroll software, it’s vital to choose one that connects with your current stack. Here are some important features to look for in direct deposit payroll software:
- Automatic Payment Processing: This feature ensures that payments are processed automatically on scheduled dates, eliminating the need for manual intervention and reducing the risk of errors.
- Tax Compliance and Calculation: The software should automatically calculate and withhold the correct amount of taxes, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local tax laws.
- Time and Attendance Tracking: Integration with time-tracking systems allows the software to calculate pay based on hours worked, including overtime accurately.
- Employee Self-Service: This feature allows employees to access their pay stubs, tax forms, and other payroll-related information online, reducing the administrative burden on HR.
- Payroll Reporting: The ability to generate detailed payroll reports helps businesses keep track of payroll expenses and ensures transparency.
- Direct Deposit: This feature allows employees to receive their pay directly into their bank accounts, providing convenience and security.
- Expense Management: The software should be able to handle employee expense reimbursements, ensuring timely and accurate payments.
- Mobile Access: Mobile-friendly payroll software allows employees and administrators to access payroll information and perform tasks from anywhere.
- Integration with Accounting Software: Seamless integration with accounting software ensures that payroll data is accurately reflected in financial records.
- Security Features: Strong security measures, such as encryption and multi-factor authentication, protect sensitive payroll data from unauthorized access.
Choosing the right direct deposit payroll software is important for smooth business operations. By ensuring that the software includes these key features, you can streamline your payroll process, ensure compliance, and provide a better experience for your employees.
Benefits of Direct Deposit Payroll Software
Implementing direct deposit payroll software can offer numerous advantages for users and organizations. Along with simplifying the payroll processes and enhancing financial security and operational efficiency, there are other perks associated with this software type, including:
- Time-Saving: Automates the payroll process, reducing the time spent on manual calculations and check distribution, allowing HR teams to focus on more strategic tasks.
- Enhanced Security: Minimizes the risk of lost or stolen checks and reduces the potential for fraud by directly depositing funds into employees' bank accounts.
- Cost Efficiency: Lowers administrative costs by eliminating the need for paper checks, postage, and related supplies, leading to significant savings over time.
- Employee Convenience: Provides employees with quicker access to their funds and eliminates the need to visit a bank to deposit their paychecks, enhancing overall employee satisfaction.
- Improved Accuracy: Reduces the likelihood of human error in payroll calculations and processing, ensuring that employees are paid correctly and on time every pay period.
By automating and securing payroll transactions, businesses can save time and money while reducing errors and enhancing convenience for their workforce. Investing in this software can lead to a more efficient and satisfied organization.
Costs & Pricing of Direct Deposit Payroll Software
When considering direct deposit payroll software, it's essential to understand the various pricing plans and features available. Below is a table outlining the different plans, features, and costs associated with direct deposit payroll software.
Plan Comparison Table for Direct Deposit Payroll Software
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic payroll processing, employee self-service, and limited support |
| Basic Plan | $17/month + $4/employee | Paychecks, direct deposit, printable W-2s, setup, and expert support |
| Standard Plan | $39/month + $5/employee | Online payroll processing, mobile app, tax administration, and direct deposit |
| Plus Plan | $80/month + $12/employee | Multi-state payroll, next-day direct deposit, and advanced hiring and onboarding |
| Premium Plan | $125/month + $10/employee | Tax penalty protection, mobile time and project tracking, and personal HR advisor |
| Contractor Plan | $35/month + $6/contractor | Unlimited contractor payments, contractor self-service, and 1099 form creation |
When choosing a direct deposit payroll software, consider the size of your business, the complexity of your payroll needs, and your budget. Each plan offers different features and pricing, so select the one that best aligns with your business requirements.
Direct Deposit Payroll Software FAQs
Here are some commonly asked questions I’ve received about direct deposit payroll software.
How secure is direct deposit payroll software?
Most direct deposit payroll software uses encryption and secure protocols to protect sensitive data. Regular updates and compliance with financial regulations further enhance security.
Can direct deposit payroll software handle different pay schedules?
Yes, most direct deposit payroll software can manage various pay schedules, including weekly, bi-weekly, semi-monthly, and monthly. This flexibility helps accommodate different business needs.
How easy is it to set up direct deposit payroll software?
Setup is straightforward, with many providers offering guided setup processes and customer support. Some software solutions also provide templates and tutorials to simplify the process.
What kind of support is available for direct deposit payroll software?
Most providers offer customer support through phone, email, and chat. Some also provide extensive online resources, including FAQs, guides, and video tutorials.
What happens if there is an error in a direct deposit payment?
Errors can be quickly identified and corrected within the software. Support teams are typically available to assist in resolving any issues promptly.
Can direct deposit payroll software manage multiple bank accounts for employees?
Yes, employees can often split their direct deposits between multiple bank accounts. This feature provides flexibility for personal financial management.
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