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Navigating the maze of payroll software for Mac can be daunting. You're looking for a solution that streamlines your payroll process, but the plethora of options might leave you more perplexed than pleased.

Fear not, I'm here to guide you through this. Drawing from my extensive background in HR, where I've implemented and worked with a multitude of payroll systems, I understand the intricacies of finding the perfect fit.

Payroll software automates the compensation of employees, ensuring accuracy and compliance with tax laws. It offers the convenience of handling complex calculations and tax obligations with ease. This software alleviates the headache of manual payroll processing, saving time and reducing errors.

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We’ve been testing and reviewing HR software since 2019. As HR experts ourselves, we know how critical and difficult it is to make the right decision when selecting software. We invest in deep research to help our audience make better software purchasing decisions. We’ve tested more than 2,000 tools for different HR management use cases and written over 1,000 comprehensive software reviews. Learn how we stay transparent, and take a look at our software review methodology.

Best Payroll Software For Mac: Pricing Comparison Chart

This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top payroll software selections for Mac systems, to help you find the best software for your budget and business needs.

Tools Price
Deel Flat rate user pricing, with a free version for businesses with up to 200 people
Papaya Global From $15/employee/month
Patriot Payroll From $4/employee/month + $17/month base fee
TimeTrex From $5/user/month
Paylocity Pricing upon request
CheckMark Online Payroll From $12/month ($20 base fee + $4/user)
Paycom Pricing upon request
Aatrix From $259.95/year
Paychex Flex Pricing upon request
QuickBooks Payroll From $30/user/month
Compare Software Specs Side by Side

Compare Software Specs Side by Side

Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.

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How to Choose Payroll Software for Mac

As you work through your own unique software selection process, keep the following points in mind:

  • Compatibility with Mac and Apple Devices: Ensure that the payroll software is fully compatible with Mac computers and integrates seamlessly with other Apple devices. This compatibility allows for a unified experience across all devices, which is particularly important for users who rely on the Apple ecosystem for their business operations.
  • Essential Payroll Features: The software should include all the essential payroll features necessary for your business operations. This includes the ability to calculate wages for different types of work hours, manage paid time off, handle tax filings, and offer various payment methods like direct deposit and checks. These features are crucial for ensuring that payroll processes are efficient and compliant with legal requirements.
  • Time Tracking and Scheduling: For businesses with hourly employees, having integrated time tracking and scheduling features is a significant advantage. This integration helps in accurately tracking hours worked and simplifies the payroll process by eliminating the need for separate systems.
  • Customer Support: Reliable customer support is essential for payroll software, as any issues need to be resolved quickly to avoid delays in employee payments. Good customer support ensures that any problems can be addressed promptly, maintaining the smooth operation of payroll processes.
  • Company Size and Growth Plans: The chosen payroll software should not only meet the current needs of your business but also have the capacity to scale as your company grows. This consideration is important to avoid the need for software changes as your business expands, which can be both disruptive and costly.

Each of these considerations addresses specific needs and pain points that payroll software for Mac can solve, such as ensuring compatibility with the Mac operating system, providing comprehensive payroll management features, integrating time tracking for hourly employees, offering dependable customer support, and scaling with the growth of the business.

Best Payroll Software for Mac Reviews

Check out my comprehensive reviews of the top payroll software available for Mac users, where I meticulously evaluate each program’s strengths and weaknesses. My analysis covers essential features, user experiences, and identifies the scenarios where each software excels.

Best for global HR and payroll integration

  • Free demo available
  • Flat rate user pricing, with a free version for businesses with up to 200 people
Visit Website
Rating: 4.8/5

Deel is a global HR management tool that provides payroll software compatible with Mac systems, catering to businesses that manage international payroll, benefits, and compliance.

Why I picked Deel: I chose Deel because the platform is designed to handle payroll for remote teams by connecting localized compliance and payments in one system of record, automating the entire process. Deel supports the management of both employees and contractors across over 150 countries. It offers features such as bulk payment processing, handling of taxes, provision of benefits and payslips, and multiple global payment options, ideal for Mac users looking to manage their global payroll and HR needs efficiently.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include on-time payment processing, benefits provisions, compliance documentation, and a centralized HR platform for managing workforce data, time off, expenses, reporting, performance, and more. Deel also provides in-house visa support to facilitate hiring or relocating team members.

Deel integrates with Quickbooks, OneLogin, Okta, Xero, Netsuite, BambooHR, Hibob, Workday, Workable, Expensify, Greenhouse, Ashby, and more.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Visa-related assistance
  • Support for global teams
  • Integrated payroll and HR

Cons:

  • Potential migration delays
  • Some users may find the interface difficult to navigate

Best for AI-driven payroll and payments

  • Free demo available
  • From $15/employee/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.5/5

Papaya Global is a platform that provides global payroll and payment services for businesses, facilitating the management of international workforces. 

Why I picked Papaya Global: Papaya Global stands out for its innovative features that cater to global payroll management. The platform's AI-driven payroll system ensures accuracy and efficiency, automatically detecting anomalies and potential errors before they become issues. Its seamless integration with various systems, coupled with real-time analytics, provides Mac users with a robust, user-friendly solution that simplifies complex payroll processes. 

Standout features & integrations:

Features include a centralized platform, employee portal, workforce analytics, JE reconciliation, global workforce wallet, Papaya payroll card, global benefits, and country experts for navigating local payroll and compliance.

Integrations include Workday, BambooHR, NetSuite, Namely, HiBob, Oracle HCM, SAP SuccessFactors, Expensify, OKTA, OneLogin, Google, and more.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Easy-to-use platform
  • Automated payroll processes
  • Compliance features for international operations

Cons:

  • Limited customization to specific business needs
  • Set up may have an initial time investment

Best for price transparency

  • 30-day free trial
  • From $4/employee/month + $17/month base fee

Patriot Software is a comprehensive payroll tool designed to streamline payroll processing for businesses of all sizes. It offers automated payroll features and integrates with various tools to enhance its functionality.

Why I picked Patriot Software: I selected Patriot Software because it exemplifies price transparency, a critical factor for small businesses managing tight budgets. This tool's clear pricing structure eliminates the worry of unexpected costs. I determined Patriot Software to be best for price transparency due to its upfront cost breakdown, ensuring businesses are not blindsided by hidden fees.

Patriot Payroll is responsive and cloud-based, meaning you can run payroll from any type of computer, as well as from a mobile device or tablet. They also offer an employee-facing mobile app for Apple/iOS devices which is available through the Apple App Store.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include multiple pay rates, 2-day direct deposit, employee or contractor payments, electronic or printable W-2 forms, unlimited payroll runs, complimentary setup, and a straightforward three-step payroll process. It also offers a free employee portal, customizable earnings and deductions, and direct deposit capabilities. 

Integrations include QuickBooks Online, Shopify, WooCommerce, Xero, Zapier, Clover, Square, PayPal, Gusto, and ADP.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Transparent pricing structure
  • Modern, intuitive interface that's easy to navigate
  • Very low price for the quality of features and service

Cons:

  • No multicurrency abilities (USD only)
  • Only available for US-based businesses

Best for handling complex pay structures

  • 30-day free trial + free plan available
  • From $5/user/month
Visit Website
Rating: 3.8/5

TimeTrex is a comprehensive workforce management software designed to streamline the complexities of time tracking, payroll processing, and human resources tasks.

Why I picked TimeTrex: TimeTrex is particularly well-suited for Mac users, offering a cloud-based solution that requires no complicated installations or compatibility concerns. Its payroll suite is designed to handle complex pay structures with ease, making it an ideal choice for companies with diverse pay rates, multiple pay periods, and intricate overtime rules. The software automatically calculates wages, deductions, and benefits, ensuring accuracy and compliance with tax regulations. 

Standout features & integrations:

Features include advanced work scheduling, direct deposit, tax form generation, custom pay stubs, multi-currency support, compliance management, employee self-service, automated time-off accruals, wage garnishments, overtime tracking, shift differentials, and real-time reporting.

TimeTrex integrates with QuickBooks, ADP, Sage, Xero, Microsoft Dynamics, Paychex, FreshBooks, Gusto, Square, and Zapier. 

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Automated payroll and tax calculations
  • Advanced time, attendance, and scheduling
  • Provides real-time insights and reports

Cons:

  • Can be difficult to navigate to certain features
  • Platform design is outdated

Best for modern workforce

  • Free demo available
  • Pricing upon request
Visit Website
Rating: 4.5/5

Paylocity is a comprehensive payroll and HR software solution designed to meet the needs of the modern workforce.

Why I picked Paylocity: I chose Paylocity for this list because it stands out with its robust set of features tailored for today's diverse and dynamic work environments. Its ability to adapt to various business sizes and industries makes it a versatile choice. I believe Paylocity is best for the modern workforce due to its innovative approach to payroll and HR, offering tools that cater to the evolving demands of both employers and employees.

Standout features & integrations:

Paylocity's payroll software is designed to simplify payroll processes, automate tasks, and ensure tax compliance. Key features include customizable setup options, general ledger mapping, a three-step payroll processing flow, and pre-submit audits to minimize errors. 

The software also offers seamless integration with time and labor systems, reducing manual data entry and ensuring paycheck accuracy with a Payroll Readiness Dashboard, such as time tracking integration, direct deposit, expense management, compensation management, tax services, on demand payment, garnishment services, global payroll, time & attendance, and scheduling.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Dedicated tax support to ensure compliance and reduce liability
  • Integrated global payroll for managing international employees
  • Customizable payroll features to fit various business needs

Cons:

  • Some users may require additional training to fully utilize all available tools and integrations
  • The breadth of features may be overwhelming for smaller businesses or those with simpler needs
  • Pricing details are not transparent

Best for affordability

  • Free trial available
  • From $12/month ($20 base fee + $4/user)
Visit Website
Rating: 4.5/5

CheckMark Payroll Software simplifies payroll processing for Mac users. It stands out for its affordability in the payroll software market.

Why I picked CheckMark: I selected CheckMark for its competitive pricing structure, which makes it accessible to a wide range of businesses, particularly small to medium-sized ones. In my assessment, CheckMark's affordability does not come at the expense of essential features, which is why it earns its place as best for affordability. It provides a cost-effective solution without compromising on the necessary tools required for efficient payroll management.

Standout features & integrations:

CheckMark offers a comprehensive suite of features, including the ability to process payroll for an unlimited number of employees, direct deposit, and MICR check printing. It also supports a variety of tax forms and reports, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations.

CheckMark integrates natively with tools including QuickBooks, Xero, ADP Workforce Now, QuickFile, TimeCamp, Wave, FreshBooks, Gusto, BambooHR, and Sage 50.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Compatible with the latest macOS versions
  • No additional fees for unlimited companies and employees
  • Cost-effective annual pricing with comprehensive features

Cons:

  • Potential limitations for businesses needing advanced customization options
  • Lack of clarity on software integrations with other business tools
  • Annual pricing may not suit businesses looking for monthly billing

Best for employee self-service

  • Free demo available
  • Pricing upon request

Paycom streamlines payroll management with a user-friendly platform. It excels in employee self-service, allowing workers to take charge of their payroll information.

Why I picked Paycom: I selected Paycom for its comprehensive, all-in-one HR software solution that distinguishes itself from other payroll tools by offering a full suite of features that cater to the entire employee lifecycle. Paycom is best for employee self-service because it empowers employees with direct access to their payroll data, which promotes transparency and accuracy, and includes the innovative Beti feature that actively involves employees in the payroll process.

Standout features & integrations:

Paycom's standout features include Beti, an employee-driven payroll experience, and Direct Data Exchange, which measures the efficiency of employee usage. The software also offers robust tax management, time and labor management, and talent acquisition tools. Additionally, Paycom provides detailed analytics and reporting capabilities to help businesses make informed decisions.

Paycom is designed to function as a comprehensive HR management suite, and as such, it does not focus on native integrations with other tools. It is built to be a standalone solution that meets a wide array of HR needs within its own ecosystem, covering payroll, benefits administration, time tracking, talent management, and more. 

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Advanced analytics and reporting for strategic decision-making
  • Comprehensive HR solution encompassing the entire employee lifecycle
  • Beti allows employees to engage with and manage their own payroll

Cons:

  • Customized pricing may require more time for consultation and setup
  • Limited information on native integrations with other tools
  • Lack of transparent pricing on the website

Best for US tax forms

  • From $259.95/year

Aatrix streamlines payroll and tax form processing for Mac users. It's best for tax forms due to its comprehensive tax reporting capabilities.

Why I picked Aatrix: I selected Aatrix for its exceptional focus on tax form management, which is a critical aspect of payroll processing. Its standout feature is the ability to automatically populate over 330 state and federal tax forms from payroll data, which is a significant differentiator from other payroll software. This capability positions Aatrix as the best for US tax forms, as it greatly reduces the complexity and potential errors associated with tax reporting.

Standout features & integrations:

Standout features include automatic tax table updates, comprehensive reporting, direct deposit, and electronic tax filing. The software also supports an unlimited number of employees and detailed payroll histories for each.

Aatrix integrates natively with numerous accounting and business management systems, including AccountEdge, QuickBooks, Sage 50, Microsoft Dynamics, and more.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Supports an unlimited number of employees
  • Direct deposit and electronic tax filing capabilities
  • Specialized tax form support with automatic population from payroll data

Cons:

  • Limited software integrations
  • Lack of transparent per-user/month pricing for easy comparison
  • Annual subscription model may not be preferred by all businesses

Best for mobile access

  • Free demo available
  • Pricing upon request
Visit Website
Rating: 4.2/5

Paychex Flex is a versatile payroll management system. It's recognized as the best for mobile access due to its comprehensive mobile app.

Why I picked Paychex Flex: I selected Paychex Flex for its exceptional mobile experience, which distinguishes it from other payroll software. The mobile app is a standout feature, offering convenience and flexibility for managing payroll tasks on the move. I judged it to be best for mobile access because it enables users to perform critical payroll functions from their mobile devices, which is invaluable for businesses with a dynamic and mobile workforce.

Standout features & integrations:

Paychex Flex boasts a suite of features that enhance payroll management, including automated tax calculations, payroll processing, and HR services. The mobile app allows for payroll on the go.

Paychex Flex integrates with numerous third-party applications, such as QuickBooks Online, Sage, Xero, BambooHR, Clover, and more, to streamline operations.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Integration with popular third-party applications
  • Automated tax calculations and compliance features
  • Comprehensive mobile app for payroll management

Cons:

  • Custom pricing may lead to variable costs
  • Additional features require extra payment
  • Base fee plus per-employee cost can add up

Best for QuickBooks users

  • 30-day free trial
  • From $30/user/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.4/5

QuickBooks Payroll is a payroll software designed to streamline payroll processing and integrate with QuickBooks accounting software. It offers comprehensive payroll management features, making it easy for businesses to manage employee payments, taxes, and compliance.

Why I picked QuickBooks Payroll: I chose QuickBooks Payroll for its seamless integration with QuickBooks, making it an ideal choice for businesses already using QuickBooks accounting software. This integration ensures smooth data transfer between accounting and payroll functions, reducing manual data entry and minimizing errors. The software's simplicity and ability to handle various payroll tasks make it stand out for existing QuickBooks users.

Standout features & integrations:

QuickBooks Payroll offers automated payroll processing, direct deposit, and tax calculations to simplify payroll management. It also provides compliance features, helping businesses navigate tax regulations and avoid penalties.

QuickBooks Payroll integrates natively with Gusto, Xero, BambooHR, Expensify, TSheets, Zoho Books, FreshBooks, Square, PayPal, HubSpot, and more, enhancing its functionality across HR and accounting tasks.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Automated payroll processing and compliance assistance
  • Comprehensive payroll management features
  • Seamless integration with QuickBooks accounting software

Cons:

  • Customer support can be slow to respond
  • Support for international payroll processing is lacking
  • Limited customization options for reporting

Other Payroll Software for Mac to Consider

Below is a list of additional payroll software for Mac that I shortlisted, but did not make it to the top list. Definitely worth checking them out.

  1. Paycor

    For user experience

  2. ADP Workforce Now

    For global organizations

  3. PrimePay

    For small business

  4. OnPay

    For multi-state payroll

  5. Gusto

    For simplicity

  6. Zenefits

    For integrated benefits management

  7. Square Payroll

    For integration with Square POS systems

  8. Wave Payroll

    For affordability and ease of use

  9. SurePayroll

    For small business simplicity

Selection Criteria Payroll Software for Mac 

When selecting payroll software for Mac, it's crucial to consider both functionality and how well it meets specific use cases that are most pertinent to the buyer's needs. These criteria are directly related to the software buyer's requirements, addressing common pain points and ensuring the payroll process is streamlined and efficient. 

As an HR software expert, I have personally tried and researched various payroll management tools, and my selection criteria are based on a comprehensive understanding of what users need from these solutions.

Core Payroll Software Functionalities (25% of total score): To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases first:

  • Accurate tax calculation and filing
  • Seamless integration with time tracking and attendance systems
  • Direct deposit and multiple payment options
  • Compliance with federal and state regulations
  • Detailed payroll reports and analytics

Additional Standout Features (25% of total score): To help me find the best software out of numerous available options, I also kept a keen eye out for unique features, including the following:

  • Innovative automation capabilities that reduce manual input
  • Real-time payroll processing for immediate updates
  • Customizable payroll workflows tailored to business needs
  • Integration with HR and accounting software for a unified system
  • Advanced security features to protect sensitive data

Usability (10% of total score): To evaluate the usability of each system, I considered the following:

  • Intuitive dashboard that provides a clear overview of payroll status
  • Streamlined navigation that allows quick access to all features
  • Aesthetic interface design that enhances user engagement
  • Responsive design for seamless use on various Mac devices

Onboarding (10% of total score): To get a sense of each software provider's customer onboarding process, I considered the following factors:

  • Availability of comprehensive training videos and documentation
  • Interactive product tours that guide new users through features
  • Access to templates that simplify the setup process
  • Support channels like chatbots and webinars for real-time assistance

Customer Support (10% of total score): To evaluate the level of customer support each vendor offered, I considered the following:

  • Multiple support channels including email, phone, and live chat
  • Quick response times and effective issue resolution
  • Access to a knowledgeable and friendly support team
  • Availability of a comprehensive FAQ and help center

Value for Price (10% of total score): To gauge the value of each software, I considered the following factors:

  • Transparent pricing structures without hidden fees
  • Flexible pricing plans that cater to different business sizes
  • Free trials or demos to test the software before purchase
  • Cost-effectiveness in relation to the features offered

Customer Reviews (10% of total score): Evaluating customer reviews is the final element of my selection process, which helps me understand how well a product performs in the hands of real users. Here are the factors I considered:

  • High overall satisfaction ratings from users
  • Positive feedback on ease of use and feature set
  • Testimonials that highlight the software's reliability and efficiency
  • Reviews that reflect the software's ability to meet business needs

Using this assessment framework helped me identify the software that goes beyond basic requirements to offer additional value through unique features, intuitive usability, smooth onboarding, effective support, and overall value for price.

Payroll software for Mac evolves rapidly. 2024 sees distinct trends shaping user experience and functionality.

  • Integration with Decentralized Finance (DeFi) Platforms: Payroll software for Mac is beginning to integrate with DeFi platforms, allowing for innovative payment options. This trend is interesting as it offers employees access to alternative financial services and investments. It's important because it reflects a shift towards more flexible and diversified payroll ecosystems.
  • Enhanced Data Security with Quantum-Resistant Encryption: Emerging payroll solutions for Mac are adopting quantum-resistant encryption to safeguard sensitive data. This is crucial as it anticipates future cybersecurity threats, ensuring long-term data protection. The trend is progressive, keeping payroll data secure against evolving quantum computing capabilities.
  • AI-Powered Tax Optimization: Artificial intelligence is being leveraged to automate and optimize tax calculations within payroll software. This trend is unique as it minimizes human error and maximizes efficiency in tax handling. It's important for businesses looking to streamline payroll processes and ensure compliance with tax regulations.
  • Real-Time Payroll Processing: Payroll systems for Mac are moving towards real-time processing capabilities. This allows for immediate updates and adjustments, which is progressive in the payroll field. It's interesting because it enables a more dynamic and responsive approach to employee compensation.
  • Employee Self-Service Portals with Enhanced UX: Mac payroll software is focusing on user experience by enhancing employee self-service portals. This trend is important as it empowers employees with direct access to their payroll information and transactions. It's interesting due to its emphasis on intuitive design and user engagement.

These trends highlight a trajectory towards more secure, efficient, and user-centric payroll solutions for Mac users.

What is Payroll Software For Mac?

Payroll software for Mac is a specialized application designed to run on macOS, facilitating the management of employee compensation. Businesses of all sizes use it to automate the processing of salaries, tax withholdings, and other payroll-related tasks. The software serves to streamline payroll operations, ensuring accuracy and compliance with tax laws, which is essential for employers to manage their workforce's financial aspects efficiently.

Features of Payroll Software for Mac

When selecting payroll software for Mac, it's essential to consider the features that will streamline your payroll processes and ensure accuracy and compliance. The right features can make a significant difference in the efficiency and effectiveness of your payroll operations. Here are the most important features to look for:

  • Time Tracking: Accurate recording of work hours is essential for payroll. Time tracking ensures that employees are paid correctly for their time, which is particularly important for those paid hourly.
  • Direct Deposit: Direct deposit is a standard expectation from employees and simplifies the payroll process for the employer.
  • Compensation Administration: This feature helps ensure that your compensation strategies align with your business objectives and market standards.
  • Employee Self-Service Portal: An employee self-service portal reduces HR workload and gives employees control over their personal data and payroll documents.
  • Payroll Reports: Customizable payroll reports are crucial for tracking and analyzing your payroll expenses and trends.
  • Tax Filing Integration: Keeping up with tax regulations is simplified with software that automatically calculates and files taxes.
  • Payroll Processing: The primary purpose of payroll software is to ensure that employees are paid correctly and promptly.
  • Reporting and Analytics Dashboards and Tools: Advanced reporting tools help you understand your payroll data and make strategic business decisions.
  • Expense Management: Automating expense management streamlines expense reporting and reimbursement, and ensures accuracy and efficiency in handling employee expenses.
  • Integrated Payroll: Integration with other software systems helps maintain data consistency and reduces manual data entry.

These features are the backbone of a robust payroll system for Mac, providing the necessary tools to manage payroll efficiently while ensuring that employees are satisfied and regulatory requirements are met. When evaluating payroll software, prioritize these features to find a solution that fits your business needs perfectly.

Benefits of Payroll Software for Mac

When it comes to managing payroll on a Mac, the right software can make all the difference. Payroll software designed for Mac users offers a range of benefits that streamline the payroll process, ensuring accuracy and compliance while saving time and resources. Here are five primary benefits that organizations can enjoy when they choose to implement payroll software on their Mac systems.

  • Ease of Use: Payroll software for Mac is typically designed with a user-friendly interface that simplifies the payroll process, making it accessible even to those with minimal accounting experience.
  • Integration Capabilities: Many payroll software options for Mac can integrate with other business systems, such as accounting software and time tracking apps, creating a seamless workflow and reducing the need for manual data entry.
  • Tax Compliance: Payroll software for Mac often includes features that automatically update tax tables and regulations, helping businesses stay compliant with federal and state tax laws without the need for constant manual monitoring.
  • Enhanced Security: With advanced encryption and security protocols, payroll software for Mac ensures that sensitive employee data, such as Social Security numbers and salary details, are protected against unauthorized access.
  • Cost Savings: By automating payroll calculations and reducing the potential for human error, payroll software for Mac can help businesses save on the costs associated with payroll errors and the administrative burden of manual payroll management.

For organizations that rely on Mac systems, choosing the right payroll software can be a game-changer. It not only enhances the efficiency of the payroll process but also provides peace of mind through improved accuracy and compliance. With these benefits, businesses can focus more on their core operations and less on the intricacies of payroll management.

Costs & Pricing for Payroll Software for Mac

Selecting the right payroll software for Mac is crucial for businesses looking to streamline their payroll processes. Payroll software can help automate the calculation of wages, tax withholdings, and ensure compliance with labor laws. For software buyers who are new to payroll systems, understanding the different plan options and their costs is essential for making an informed decision that suits their business needs and budget.

Plan Comparison Table for Payroll Software for Mac

Plan TypeAverage PriceCommon Features
Free Option$0Basic payroll processing, tax calculations, limited reports, and support
Basic Plan$10 - $20 per month + $2 - $5 per employeeStandard payroll processing, tax calculations, direct deposit, basic reporting
Mid-Range Plan$30 - $50 per month + $4 - $7 per employeeEnhanced payroll features, tax filing, multiple pay schedules, additional integrations
Premium Plan$50+ per month + $5 - $10 per employeeAdvanced payroll features, multi-state tax filing, HR tools, dedicated support, custom reporting
A breakdown of plan types, costs, and features for payroll software for Mac.

*Note: The prices and features listed are averages and may vary between different software providers. It is advisable to check with individual software vendors for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing and feature information.

Software buyers should weigh the number of employees, frequency of payroll runs, and the level of support needed against the cost of the software. A free option may suffice for very small businesses with basic needs, while larger businesses may require the advanced features of a premium plan.

Payroll Software for Mac FAQs

Here are some answers to frequently asked questions you may have about payroll software and how it works on Mac computers or on iOS mobile devices:

Can I run payroll software directly on my Mac, or do I need to use a web-based application?

Most modern payroll software solutions for Mac are cloud-based, meaning they can be accessed through a web browser without the need to install any software on your Mac. This approach offers flexibility and accessibility, as you can manage payroll from any device with an internet connection. However, some providers may offer a desktop application for Mac that can be installed directly, providing an alternative for users who prefer not to rely on a web browser.

What kind of customer support can I expect with Mac-compatible payroll software?

Customer support varies by software provider, but most reputable payroll software companies offer a range of support options for Mac users. This typically includes online resources such as help articles and video tutorials, as well as direct support through email, live chat, or phone. Some providers may also offer dedicated account managers or personalized support services for an additional fee.

Are there any free payroll software options for Mac users?

While completely free payroll software options for Mac are rare, some providers may offer a basic free tier or a free trial period. However, these free versions are often limited in features and capabilities. For comprehensive payroll functions, investing in a paid subscription is usually necessary to ensure compliance with tax laws and to access full-service features.

How secure is payroll software on a Mac?

Payroll software providers take security very seriously, especially since they handle sensitive financial and personal information. Reputable Mac-compatible payroll software typically features robust security measures, including data encryption, secure data centers, and compliance with privacy regulations. Users should also ensure they follow best practices for security, such as using strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication when available.

Does payroll software for Mac handle tax filing and compliance?

Yes, most payroll software for Mac is designed to handle tax filing and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local tax laws. The software usually calculates the correct tax withholdings for each employee, files the necessary tax documents, and makes the appropriate tax payments on behalf of the business. Some services guarantee accuracy and will cover any fines or penalties in the event of a mistake.

Can I manage employee benefits through Mac payroll software?

Many payroll software solutions for Mac also include features to manage employee benefits. This can range from health insurance and retirement plans to paid time off and other perks. The software typically allows for easy enrollment, tracking, and management of various employee benefits, ensuring that all information is centralized and accessible.

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Faye Wai
By Faye Wai

Faye Wai is a HR Technology Analyst and contributor to People Managing People, with a background in branding, public relations, and content marketing. She has vet vendors as an end-user in both consultancy and in-house capacities, providing her with a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities within the people operations sector.