15 Best Stand Alone Payroll Software Reviewed in 2024
Best Stand Alone Payroll Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 15 tools reviewed.
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Whether you're a small business owner or manage a large team, choosing the best standalone payroll software is important for streamlining accounting processes. But finding the right solution can be difficult, especially with so many options available.
Drawing from my extensive experience with various payroll solutions in diverse organizational settings, I'll use in-depth reviews to guide you through the best payroll software options. By highlighting the top options, I aim to help you select a solution that addresses common payroll challenges such as manual data entry, calculation inaccuracies, and compliance risks.
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Best Stand Alone 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 |
| factoHR | Pricing upon request | Website |
| AccountEdge | From $20/month | Website |
| CheckMark Online Payroll | From $12/month ($20 base fee + $4/user) | Website |
| JustLogin | Pricing upon request | Website |
| SimplePay.ca | From $25/month | Website |
| BrightPay | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Payroll Mate | From $149 (one-time purchase) | Website |
| SBS Payroll HR | Pricing upon request | 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 Stand Alone Payroll Software
As you work through your unique software selection process, keep the following points in mind:
- User-Friendliness: With user-friendly software, payroll managers can navigate different functions quickly and efficiently. For example, a payroll manager should be able to quickly find and use features such as wage calculation and tax filing without extensive training. This is particularly important for small businesses without dedicated IT support.
- Scalability: As businesses grow, their payroll software needs become more complex. A scalable payroll solution can adapt to increasing employees and more intricate payroll requirements, thus saving time and resources.
- Integration Capabilities: Payroll software that integrates seamlessly with other business systems, such as HR, accounting, and time-tracking tools can significantly enhance operational efficiency. This is particularly beneficial for businesses that use multiple software solutions to manage different aspects of their operations.
- Compliance and Security: Payroll involves handling sensitive employee data and ensuring compliance with various tax laws and regulations. As a result, high-security standards and compliance support are vital features of any payroll software.
- Customer Support: Reliable customer support is important for resolving any issues with payroll software. A software with good customer support can help businesses quickly address problems, minimizing disruptions to payroll processing. This is especially important for businesses that operate in multiple time zones or have complex payroll needs.
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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 Stand Alone Payroll Software Reviews
This section provides an in-depth analysis and overview of each stand alone payroll software. Below, I’ll discuss the pros and cons of each tool, its features, and its best use cases.
Deel is a comprehensive HR platform designed to simplify payroll and compliance for businesses with a global workforce.
Why I picked Deel: It supports multiple currencies and local tax compliance, making it easy for companies to pay employees in over 150 countries. Deel's automated payroll processing ensures accuracy and efficiency, reducing the risk of errors and compliance issues. I also like that its features extend beyond employees. Deel also supports paying contractors compliantly.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include automated invoicing, customizable contracts, compliant tax forms, global health insurance, time-off management, and detailed reporting.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, NetSuite, Greenhouse, BambooHR, and Zapier.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive HR features
- User-friendly platform
- Prioritizes global compliance
Cons:
- Room for improvement in analytics and reporting features
- No mobile app
RUN by ADP is a payroll and HR management software tailored for small businesses, offering a suite of services including payroll processing, tax filing, benefits administration, and time tracking.
Why I picked RUN by ADP: The software automatically calculates and files payroll taxes, which reduces the administrative burden on small business owners. This feature ensures compliance with federal and state tax regulations, therefore minimizing the risk of costly errors and penalties. Additionally, RUN by ADP offers automated benefits and retirement deductions, which further simplify payroll processing.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include direct deposit, 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:
- Customizable, in-depth reporting options
- Robust mobile app
- Employee self-service portal
Cons:
- Setup can be complex initially
- Most HR functions are only available on higher-tier plans
factoHR is a cloud-based HCM solution offering advanced HR and payroll functionalities. It’s best for mobile-first HCM solutions due to its strong mobile app that allows employees full accessibility to their data.
Why I picked factoHR: factoHR provides users with a valued mobile-first approach, which stands out in the crowded payroll software market. Its mobile app provides a seamless user experience, helping teams manage processes from anywhere. Additionally, the software’s user-friendly interface, advanced reporting capabilities, and integration options make it ideal for businesses of all sizes looking to simplify their payroll management.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include a feature-rich mobile app, top-notch security with encryption and SOC Type 2 certified cloud data centers, and an all-in-one HR platform that centralizes all HR data and processes.
Integrations include Microsoft Azure, SAP, QuickBooks, Sage 50, Oracle PeopleSoft, ADP, Paychex, and Kronos.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time attendance tracking capabilities
- Comprehensive HCM features included
- User-friendly mobile app interface
Cons:
- Occasional app performance issues
- Limited customization for reports
AccountEdge is powerful and easy-to-use desktop accounting software for small businesses that use Mac or Windows. It offers a suite of command centers addressing various business facets, including sales, invoicing, payroll, accounting, and inventory.
Why I picked AccountEdge: AccountEdge provides users with on-premise accounting capabilities combined with the flexibility of remote access. This type of flexibility mixed with the software’s extensive customization options make it a top choice for businesses seeking a reliable and secure on-site solution tailored to their specific needs.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include advanced data management and reporting, payroll tracking, and inventory management.
Integrations include Shopify, BigCommerce, WooCommerce, Magento, UPS, FedEx, USPS, PayPal, Stripe, and Square.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive reporting capabilities
- Supports remote access functionality
- Strong on-premise accounting features
Cons:
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- Limited third-party integrations
CheckMark Online Payroll is a reliable and secure payroll software for small businesses. It offers unlimited payrolls, 3-day ACH payments, free USA-based support, an employee self-service portal, and automatic backups.
Why I picked CheckMark Online Payroll: CheckMark Online Payroll stands out due to its unlimited payroll runs and 3-day ACH payments, which are important for businesses needing frequent payroll processing without extra charges. It simplifies payroll processing with automated calculations, direct deposit options, and tax filing capabilities, ensuring accuracy and compliance. Additionally, the software's user-friendly interface and strong support make it ideal for small businesses.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include unlimited payroll runs, 3-day ACH payments, an in-house employee self-service portal, and automatic backups.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Sage 50, Microsoft Excel, Adobe PDF, CSV, Quicken, Kronos, ADP, Paychex, and Oracle PeopleSoft.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- User-friendly interface and navigation
- 3-day ACH payment processing
- Unlimited payroll runs included
Cons:
- Basic reporting features only
- No mobile app support
JustLogin is a cloud-based HRMS software that offers a full suite of HR solutions, including payroll, leave, attendance, and expense management. It’s an ideal choice for businesses looking to streamline their HR processes while ensuring compliance with local regulations.
Why I picked JustLogin: JustLogin combines payroll, leave, attendance, and expense management into a cloud-based solution. This integration makes it stand out from other stand alone payroll software by offering a holistic approach to HR management. Additionally, the software’s focus on compliance features ensures that businesses can stay up-to-date with statutory regulations, which is important for maintaining legal and financial integrity.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include payroll management, leave tracking, attendance monitoring, expense management, a mobile app for on-the-go access, facial recognition for attendance, and automated compliance with statutory regulations.
Integrations include Xero, QuickBooks, Sage, SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, Workday, BambooHR, ADP, and Kronos.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Mobile app access
- Automated compliance
- Comprehensive HRMS
Cons:
- Occasional system performance issues
- Limited customization for specific workflows
SimplePay.ca is an online payroll tax deduction and net pay calculation software for businesses in Canada. It helps teams ensure that they meet all provincial requirements when completing payroll.
Why I picked SimplePay.ca: SimplePay.ca offers strong compliance features tailored to Canadian businesses. It stands out for its ability to handle payroll across all provinces, including Quebec, making it a versatile tool for nationwide operations. With this feature, companies can manage payroll without worrying about provincial regulations.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include customizable payroll mapping options, electronic payments, and compliance readiness for all provinces.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Sage, Xero, ADP, Paychex, Oracle PeopleSoft, Kronos, Microsoft Dynamics, and SAP.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Electronic payments
- Customizable payroll mapping
- Compliance-ready for all provinces
Cons:
- Complex setup for first-time users
- No advanced reporting customization options
BrightPay is standalone payroll software that offers cloud and desktop versions for employers and accountants. It automates and streamlines auto-enrolment tasks, including smart alerts to notify users of duties that must be performed.
Why I picked BrightPay: BrightPay’s seamless integration with pension providers helps teams enable easy setup and management of workplace pensions. With these features, it automates the enrolment process, including employee assessments and communications, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements while saving significant time and reducing administrative burdens.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include payroll journal integration with popular accounting solutions, batch processing for bureau users, an employee self-service portal, and real-time collaboration.
Integrations include Xero, Sage, QuickBooks, BrightBooks, Modulr, KashFlow, FreeAgent, Zoho Books, Clear Books, and FreshBooks.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Auto-enrolment
- Employee self-service portal
- Real-time collaboration
Cons:
- Advanced features may overwhelm new users
- Limited integration with third-party software
Payroll Mate is an in-depth payroll software for small businesses and accountants. It offers a range of features to manage payroll, taxes, and employee payments efficiently.
Why I picked Payroll Mate: Payroll Mate offers several strong features that are tailored to small businesses and accountants. It stands out due to its ability to handle multiple companies and any number of employees, making it a versatile tool for various business needs. Additionally, the software's advanced tax calculation and reporting capabilities successfully help teams deliver accurate and timely payroll, reducing errors and improving business efficiency.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include automatic federal, state, and local tax calculation, support for multiple pay frequencies, and the ability to generate and print payroll forms such as W-2, W-3, 941, and 940.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Sage 50, Quicken, Microsoft Accounting, Kronos, ADP, Paychex, and Oracle PeopleSoft.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Direct deposit feature
- Supports multiple companies
- Comprehensive tax calculations
Cons:
- Limited to Windows OS
- Desktop-based only
SBS Payroll HR offers advanced human resource, HCM, and payroll solutions tailored to businesses' needs. It’s best known for its personalized and responsive payroll and HR services, ensuring clients receive dedicated support and customized solutions.
Why I picked SBS Payroll HR: SBS Payroll HR provides users with standout personalized and responsive service, setting it apart from other payroll software. The company's commitment to providing tailored HR and payroll solutions ensures businesses receive the support they need to manage their workforce effectively. Additionally, the software offers customizable reports and efficient automation, reducing errors and saving valuable time for businesses.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include a full suite of HR and payroll services, including time and attendance, benefits administration, HCM software, additional HR services, background screening, COBRA administration, and employee onboarding.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Sage, ADP, Paychex, Oracle PeopleSoft, and Kronos.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive HR solutions
- Responsive customer support
- Personalized payroll services
Cons:
- No mobile app support
- Limited self-service options are available
Other Stand Alone Payroll Software
Below is a list of additional stand alone payroll software that I shortlisted. While they didn’t make the top 10, they’re still valuable and worth further research.
- EasyPay
For secure and convenient bill payments
- PayDay! SaaS
For affordable, compliant payroll solutions
- Remote
For global payroll management
- PayDirt Payroll
For time tracking integration
- Wagepoint
For small business payroll solutions
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
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- Recruiting Software
- Employer of Record Services
- Applicant Tracking Systems
- Workforce Management Software
Stand Alone Payroll Software Selection Criteria
The criteria for choosing a stand alone 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 weighting score
- Processing payroll accurately and on time
- Managing employee benefits and deductions
- Generating tax forms and compliance reports
- Tracking employee hours and attendance
- Providing direct deposit options
Additional Standout Features: 25% of total weighting score
- Integration with other HR tools and accounting software
- Customizable reporting and analytics for different pay periods
- Mobile access to pay employees on the go
- Self-service portals for employees to access pay stubs, employer tax documents, time off, and PTO
- Advanced security features to protect sensitive payroll data
Usability: 10% of total weighting score
- Intuitive user interface with straightforward navigation
- Drag-and-drop functionality for scheduling and pay rate adjustments
- Customizable dashboards for quick access to key metrics
- Role-based access and add-ons that are easy to configure
- Minimal learning curve for new users
Onboarding: 10% of total weighting score
- Availability of advanced training videos and tutorials
- Interactive product tours to guide new users
- Pre-built templates for quick setup
- Access to chatbots for instant support
- Regular webinars to keep users updated on new features
Customer Support: 10% of total weighting score
- 24/7 customer support availability
- Multiple support channels (phone, email, live chat)
- Dedicated account managers for personalized assistance
- Fast response times to queries and issues
- Access to a knowledge base for self-service support
Value For Money: 10% of total weighting score
- Competitive pricing compared to similar tools
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Flexible subscription plans to suit different business sizes
- Discounts for long-term commitments
- Free trials or demos to evaluate the software before purchase
Customer Reviews: 10% of total weighting score
- High overall satisfaction ratings from users
- Positive feedback on ease of use and functionality
- Consistent praise for customer support and responsiveness
- Testimonials highlighting the software's impact on payroll efficiency
- Reviews indicating reliable performance and minimal downtime
Trends for Stand Alone Payroll Software
Here are some trends I’ve noticed for stand alone 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 and Machine Learning Integration: AI and machine learning are integrated into payroll software to automate complex calculations. This reduces human error and increases efficiency. It’s essential because it allows for more accurate payroll processing.
- Cloud-Based Solutions: Cloud-based payroll software is becoming more popular as it offers accessibility from anywhere and ensures data security. This trend is significant as it supports remote work environments.
- Mobile Accessibility: Payroll software is increasingly available on mobile devices as it allows employees to access their payroll information on the go. This is interesting because it enhances user convenience and engagement.
- Real-Time Data Processing: Payroll systems are adopting real-time data processing, which enables instant updates and error detection. This adoption is important for maintaining up-to-date and accurate payroll records.
- Enhanced Compliance Features: Payroll software is beginning to incorporate advanced compliance features to help businesses adhere to ever-changing tax laws and regulations. This trend is essential for reducing the risk of legal issues.
Adopting the latest innovations in payroll software will not only streamline operations but also provide a competitive advantage in managing workforce finances effectively. Staying updated with these trends ensures that your payroll processes remain cutting-edge, reliable, and compliant while increasing overall productivity.
What is Stand Alone Payroll Software?
Stand alone payroll software is designed to manage and process employee payroll independently from other HR systems. Most companies commonly use it to handle payroll calculations, tax withholdings, and direct deposits.
Stand alone payroll software typically includes payroll processing, tax calculation, direct deposit management, and reporting features. These elements work together to automate payroll tasks, reduce errors, and provide detailed payroll reports for compliance and auditing purposes.
Features of Stand Alone Payroll Software
When choosing stand alone payroll software, it's essential to understand the key features that will help manage payroll efficiently. Here are the most important features to look for when shopping for your next payroll solution.
- Automated Tax Calculations: This feature ensures that all state tax and federal tax calculations are accurate and up-to-date, reducing the risk of errors and penalties.
- Direct Deposit: Direct deposit allows employees to receive their paychecks directly into their bank accounts either on a monthly or bi-weekly basis. This is more convenient and saves time compared to having to print checks.
- Employee Self-Service Portal: An employee self-service portal lets employees and new hires access their payroll information, such as pay stubs and tax forms, without contacting HR.
- Compliance Management: Compliance management helps ensure that the payroll setup and system adhere to all relevant labor laws and regulations, which is important for avoiding legal issues.
- Customizable Reporting: Customizable reporting allows you to generate specific payroll reports tailored to your business needs, providing valuable insights into payroll expenses.
- Integration with Accounting Software: Accounting software ensures payroll data is automatically synced with financial records, simplifying bookkeeping.
- Time and Attendance Tracking: Time and attendance tracking helps monitor employee hours and attendance, ensuring accurate payroll calculations.
- Multi-State and International Payroll: This feature supports payroll processing for employees in different states or countries, which is essential for businesses with a geographically diverse workforce.
- Mobile Access: Mobile access allows you to manage payroll from anywhere, providing flexibility and convenience with e-filing and other payroll tools.
- Customer Support: Reliable customer support is important for resolving any issues with the payroll software and ensuring smooth operation.
Understanding the features of stand-alone payroll software is essential for selecting the right tool to streamline your payroll processes. By leveraging these capabilities, businesses can save time, reduce errors, and focus more on their core operations, ensuring smooth and reliable payroll handling.
Benefits of Stand Alone Payroll Software
Stand alone payroll software offers a range of benefits that can streamline payroll processes, ensure compliance, and save time and money. Below are some of the primary advantages you may experience while using a stand alone payroll software.
- Accuracy and Compliance: Stand alone payroll software ensures that all payroll calculations are accurate and comply with the latest tax laws and regulations, reducing the risk of costly errors and penalties.
- Time Savings: Automating payroll processes with stand alone software significantly reduces the time spent on manual calculations and data entry, allowing HR and finance teams to focus on more strategic tasks.
- Data Security: Payroll software provides strong security features to protect sensitive employee information. This ensures that data is stored securely and access is only restricted to authorized personnel.
- Cost Efficiency: By automating payroll processes, organizations can reduce the need for extensive manual labor and minimize the risk of errors, leading to long-term cost savings.
- Employee Self-Service: Many stand alone payroll software solutions offer self-service portals where employees can access their pay stubs, tax forms, and other payroll-related information, enhancing transparency and reducing administrative workload.
Investing in stand alone payroll software can transform how organizations handle payroll, making the process more efficient, secure, and cost-effective. By leveraging these benefits, businesses can ensure that their payroll operations run smoothly and compliantly, ultimately contributing to overall organizational success.
Costs & Pricing of Stand Alone Payroll Software
This section provides an estimate of average stand alone payroll software plans and costs. Keep in mind that the pricing and features can vary significantly based on the plan type.
Plan Comparison Table for Stand Alone Payroll Software
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic payroll processing, limited support, basic reporting, and employee self-service |
| Personal Plan | $15 - $25 per month | Payroll processing, tax management, direct deposit, basic support, and basic reporting |
| Business Plan | $40 - $80 per month | Advanced payroll processing, tax filing, direct deposit, time and attendance, benefits management, enhanced support, and custom reporting |
| Enterprise Plan | $100+ per month | Full-service payroll, compliance management, dedicated account manager, advanced reporting, HR support, and integration with other systems |
When choosing stand alone payroll software, consider the integration capabilities with your existing systems and the ease of use for your team. Additionally, it’s important to evaluate the customer support quality and specific features that align with your business needs.
Stand Alone Payroll Software FAQs
Here are some commonly asked questions about stand alone payroll software.
How do I ensure data security with stand alone payroll software?
Ensuring data security with stand alone payroll software involves several steps. First, choose software with robust encryption methods for data in transit and at rest. Look for features like multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of security. Regularly update the software to protect against vulnerabilities and ensure compliance with the latest security standards. Additionally, regular audits should be conducted, and access logs should be monitored to detect any unauthorized access or anomalies.
How can I handle payroll for remote employees using stand alone payroll software?
Handling payroll for remote employees using stand alone payroll software involves ensuring the software can manage different tax jurisdictions and comply with varying state and local regulations. The software should allow direct deposit to multiple bank accounts and support electronic pay stubs. Additionally, it should offer self-service portals where remote employees can access their payroll information, update personal details, and download tax forms.
What kind of customer support should I expect from stand alone payroll software providers?
Customer support for stand alone payroll software can vary, but you should expect access to multiple support channels such as phone, email, and live chat. Look for providers that offer 24/7 support, especially if you have employees in different time zones. Additionally, check if the provider provides a comprehensive knowledge base, video tutorials, and regular training webinars to help you and your team get the most out of the software.
How do I migrate data from my current payroll system to a new stand alone payroll software?
Migrating data from your current payroll system to a new stand alone payroll software typically involves exporting your existing data into a compatible format and then importing it into the new system. Many payroll software providers offer migration assistance or services to help with this process. Ensure that you back up all your data before starting the migration and verify the accuracy of the data once it has been imported into the new system.
How do I customize payroll reports in stand alone payroll software?
Customizing payroll reports in stand alone software typically involves using built-in report templates and customization tools. You can select the data fields you want to include, apply filters, and choose the format for the report. Some software solutions allow you to create custom reports from scratch using drag-and-drop interfaces or query builders. Ensure that the software you choose offers the flexibility to generate the specific reports you need for your business.
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