17 Best Payroll Software for One Employee in 2026

Deel helps small businesses and startups hire and pay team members—whether employees or contractors—in over 150 countries without needing your own local entities.

Why I Picked Deel

I picked Deel because it lets you legally employ and pay someone anywhere in the world without setting up a local subsidiary, saving time and cost on entity creation. Deel’s Employer of Record (EOR) service handles locally compliant contracts, payroll processing, tax filings, benefits, and legal requirements—so your team stays compliant in every country where you hire.

Its global payroll option automates tax calculations, multi-currency payments, and local deductions, giving you accurate pay runs in 130+ countries. You’ll also find contractor management that generates compliant contracts and handles invoicing and tax documents for freelancers, reducing legal risk when scaling internationally. Deel’s transparent pricing and flexible monthly plans mean you only pay for the services you need.

Deel Key Features

Here are some key features worth highlighting:

• Employer of Record (EOR): Lets you hire full-time employees in 150+ countries while Deel becomes the legal employer and handles compliance, payroll, and benefits.
• Global Payroll: Automates payroll processing, multi-currency payments, tax filings, and payslip generation across borders.
• Contractor Management: Generates compliant contracts, handles invoicing, and pays global contractors while managing tax documentation.
• Onboarding & Compliance Tools: Digitally collects employee documentation and helps maintain compliance with local labor laws.

Deel Integrations

Integrations include Workday, SAP SuccessFactors, UKG, HiBob, BambooHR, QuickBooks, Xero, and other HRIS/HCM and accounting systems.

Justworks is an attractive choice for those managing payroll for a single employee, offering an intuitive platform that simplifies the complex task of payroll management. It is particularly appealing to small business owners or freelancers who need reliable payroll processing without the administrative burden. By automating tax filings and providing direct deposit options, Justworks addresses the need for efficiency and compliance, making it easier to focus on what truly matters, growing your business.

Why I Picked Justworks

I picked Justworks because it excels in automating payroll tasks that are crucial for managing a single employee. The platform's ability to handle tax filings and direct deposit simplifies the payroll process, reducing the time you spend on administrative tasks. Justworks also offers time tracking integration, which ensures accurate payroll calculations by syncing hours worked directly into the system. This feature is particularly beneficial if you're looking to maintain precision and compliance with minimal effort.

Justworks Key Features

In addition to its core payroll functionalities, Justworks offers several features that enhance its utility.

• Mobile-Optimized Platform: You can manage payroll tasks on-the-go with Justworks' mobile-friendly interface.
• Contractor Payments: Easily manage payments to contractors alongside regular payroll without the need for separate systems.
• Automated Deductions: The software automatically calculates and applies necessary deductions, ensuring accurate payroll processing.
• 24/7 Support: Access to round-the-clock support provides peace of mind, knowing help is available when you need it.

Justworks Integrations

Integrations include QuickBooks, NetSuite, Xero, Sage Intacct, 15Five, allwhere, Brex, Culture Amp, Electric AI, and JazzHR.

Gusto is a strong option for solo employers who want payroll to stay hands-off while giving their employee control over their own information. It handles pay runs and tax filings automatically, while employee self-service tools reduce day-to-day admin for you.

Why I Picked Gusto

I picked Gusto because it keeps payroll low effort by combining automation with employee self-service. Once payroll is set up, Gusto calculates pay, files federal and state taxes, and sends direct deposits automatically each cycle.

Your employee can access pay stubs, W-2s, and update personal details themselves through the self-service portal, which means fewer admin requests for you. Unlimited payroll runs also let you pay weekly, biweekly, or off-cycle without extra fees. For a single-employee business, this balance of automation and self-service makes payroll feel largely hands-off.

Gusto Key Features

Here are some key features worth highlighting:

• Employee Self-Service Portal: Employees manage pay stubs, tax forms, and personal information independently.
• Unlimited Payroll Runs: Run payroll as often as needed without additional charges.
• Automatic Tax Filing: Calculates and files federal, state, and local payroll taxes for you.
• Digital Onboarding Tools: Collect tax forms and payment details without manual paperwork.

Gusto Integrations

Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, QuickBooks Time, Clover, Deputy, Expensify, FreshBooks, and Trainual.

RUN Powered by ADP® helps small businesses run payroll confidently with built-in tax compliance, flexible pay options, and tools that grow with your team. It’s designed for employers with 1–49 employees who want payroll processing that handles calculations, filings, and reporting with minimal manual work so you can focus on your business.

Why I Picked RUN Powered by ADP®

I picked RUN Powered by ADP® because it automates the payroll tasks that typically take hours each week by calculating wages, deductions, and filing federal, state, and local taxes for you.

Its RUN & DONE® automation lets you set payroll to recur on your schedule, saving time every pay period. The platform’s dashboard gives you clear visibility into upcoming pay dates, alerts, and to-dos so you can stay ahead of deadlines without guesswork.

Mobile access means you can run payroll, approve pay runs, or check reports from anywhere on web or mobile. And with an employee self-service portal, your staff can access pay stubs and tax forms directly, reducing routine admin for your team.

RUN Powered by ADP® Key Features

Here are some key features worth highlighting:

• Automated Tax Filing: Calculates, withholds, and files payroll taxes at federal, state, and local levels.
• Direct Deposit & Pay Options: Offers flexible pay distribution, including direct deposit and ADP-linked paycards.
• Time & Attendance Integration: Pulls time tracking data directly into payroll for accurate wage calculations.
• Payroll Reporting: Built-in reports give visibility into labor costs, tax liabilities, and payroll history.

RUN Powered by ADP® Integrations

Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, ZipRecruiter, 7Shifts POS, JazzHR, When I Work, Replicon, and Employee Navigator.

Patriot Payroll is designed for small U.S.-based businesses that need an affordable, easy-to-manage payroll solution. It supports unlimited payroll runs, employee self-service, and optional full tax filing services, making it particularly well suited to solo owners, sole proprietors, and very small teams who want straightforward payroll without complex setup or large fees.

Why I Picked Patriot Payroll

I picked Patriot Payroll because it gives small teams payroll essentials—like multi-frequency payroll runs and W-2/1099 support—at a price most startups and micro-businesses can budget for. Its platform handles federal and state tax calculations automatically, and with the Full Service plan it files and deposits those taxes for you, reducing manual compliance work.

The employee self-service portal lets your team view pay stubs and tax forms without extra admin time, and direct deposit and free setup support mean you can pay workers quickly and get up to speed fast. Plus, the interface is intuitive, so you won’t waste hours learning a complex system.

Patriot Payroll Key Features

Here are some key features worth highlighting:

• Unlimited Payroll Runs: Run payroll as often as you need without extra fees.
• Automated Tax Calculations: Computes federal, state, and local withholdings for each pay period.
• Employee Self-Service Portal: Employees can access pay stubs and W-2s on their own.
• Custom Pay Rates & Deductions: Set multiple pay rates, customizable hours, and deduction types.

Patriot Payroll Integrations

Integrations include QuickBooks Online, QuickBooks Desktop, and TSheets by QuickBooks.

For those seeking an efficient payroll solution for just one employee, Rippling offers a streamlined approach to managing payroll alongside HR, IT, and finance functions. It caters to small businesses and professionals who require a simplified yet comprehensive tool that can handle payroll intricacies without overwhelming complexity. By automating repetitive tasks and integrating seamlessly with other business operations, Rippling addresses the challenge of managing payroll with precision and ease, ensuring compliance and accuracy.

Why I Picked Rippling

I picked Rippling because it excels in delivering a unified payroll system that integrates payroll with HR, IT, and finance functions. One standout feature is its customizable payroll options, which allow you to tailor payroll settings to fit specific needs, whether you're paying an employee or a contractor. Another key feature is the advanced workflow automation that reduces manual tasks, allowing you to focus on more strategic activities. These features make Rippling a valuable tool for those who want a straightforward and integrated payroll solution for a single employee.

Rippling Key Features

In addition to its customizable payroll options and workflow automation, Rippling also offers:

• Global Payroll Support: Rippling facilitates payroll for employees and contractors worldwide, eliminating the need for local entities.
• Advanced Analytics: The platform offers detailed reporting capabilities, helping you make informed decisions based on payroll data.
• Policy Enforcement: Ensures that payroll processes adhere to company policies and compliance requirements automatically.
• Integration Capabilities: Connects with over 600 third-party applications, enhancing its functionality across various business operations.

Rippling Integrations

Integrations include Slack, Checkr, Google Workspace, Zoom, Asana, Salesforce, Microsoft 365, Guideline, GitHub, and Carta.

Wave offers payroll software designed for small businesses, with integrated features to help users manage payroll and accounting tasks. It simplifies payroll processes with features like direct deposit, tax calculations, and employee self-service.

Why I picked Wave: I included Wave in this list because of its integrated accounting software, which is helpful for small businesses that need to manage both payroll and accounting tasks efficiently.

Wave is best for small businesses needing integrated accounting and payroll software because it connects payroll with Wave's accounting software, reducing manual bookkeeping and ensuring accurate financial records.

Standout features and integrations:

Features include automatic tax remittances, direct deposit, and employee access to pay stubs and tax forms. Outside of its payroll abilities, Wave also offers invoicing, bookkeeping, and cash flow management tools, all of which are available for free.

If you scale up to their paid plan, Wave platform also offers receipt scanning and direct bank account and credit card connections for automatic transaction import, which simplifies bookkeeping.

Integrations include Wave Accounting, Wave Invoicing, Wave Payments, QuickBooks, Xero, FreshBooks, and PayPal.

Square Payroll is a payroll software designed for small businesses, offering transparent pricing with no hidden fees or long-term commitments.

It helps organizations manage payroll for employees including tax filings, and payments, as well as time tracking, shifts, overtime, commission, bonuses, and tips. Plus, it can also manage independent contractor payments too.

Why I picked Square Payroll: I chose Square Payroll for its ability to integrate with POS systems, which is crucial for businesses that rely heavily on point-of-sale transactions such as retail, hospitality, or other service-based businesses. This integration ensures that payroll processes are streamlined and synchronized with sales data, reducing manual entry and errors.

For those reasons, I believe Square Payroll stands out for its ability to handle both payroll and POS needs efficiently.

Standout features and integrations:

Features include automated tax filings, direct deposit, time tracking, and management of multiple pay rates, commissions, bonuses, and tips. It also provides next business day payroll with a Square balance or checking account and integrates fully with the Square ecosystem, including Square Team Management.

Integrations include Square POS, Square Appointments, Square Invoices, Square Online Store, QuickBooks, Xero, Gusto, ADP, Paychex, and Patriot Software.

ADP offers comprehensive payroll services tailored for small businesses, ensuring compliance and providing robust support. It automates payroll tasks, including tax calculations and filings, to save time and reduce errors.

Why I picked ADP: I chose ADP for its strong focus on compliance and support, which are critical for small businesses. ADP stands out due to its extensive experience and resources dedicated to helping businesses navigate complex payroll regulations.

Standout features and integrations:

Features include automated tax calculations, direct deposit, and compliance tools. 

Integrations are available with various HR and accounting systems, including QuickBooks, Xero, and more.

Wagepoint is a payroll software designed for small businesses, offering features such as one-click payroll, automated tax handling, and an online employee portal. It is known for its user-friendly interface and flexibility, making payroll processing easy for both employees and contractors.

Why I picked Wagepoint: I chose Wagepoint for its simplicity and ease of use, which stands out among payroll software options. Its user-friendly interface and comprehensive support make it ideal for small businesses.

I believe Wagepoint is best for user-friendly payroll for small businesses because it offers intuitive features that streamline payroll processing, making it accessible even for those with limited payroll experience.

Standout features and integrations:

Features include one-click payroll, automated tax handling, and an online employee portal. These features ensure that payroll processing is quick and efficient, reducing the administrative burden on small business owners. 

Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, TSheets, Deputy, 7Shifts, Track, and other time-tracking applications, allowing for seamless data transfer and enhanced functionality.