Managing payroll is a critical task for any business operating in the United States. Between compliance, taxes, employee benefits, and timely payments, the stakes are high. That’s why many businesses turn to specialized payroll software or HR solutions to handle everything efficiently and legally.
With numerous providers in the market, choosing the right payroll service can be overwhelming. In this post, we’ll compare seven of the top payroll and HR service providers in the U.S.: Gusto, Paychex, OnPay, SurePayroll, Sage Payroll, Bambee, and Deel.
1. Gusto: Best for Small to Midsize Businesses
Overview:
Gusto is a cloud-based payroll and HR platform designed to serve small and midsize businesses. Known for its clean interface, easy onboarding, and great support, Gusto goes beyond payroll with features like benefits management, time tracking, and onboarding.
Key Features:
- Full-service payroll in all 50 states
- Automated tax filings (federal, state, local)
- Employee benefits administration
- Time and attendance tracking
- Integrates with accounting tools like QuickBooks and Xero
- Contractor payments
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- Transparent pricing
- Excellent onboarding and customer support
- Integrates well with third-party apps
Best For:
Startups, small businesses, remote teams within the U.S.
2. Paychex: Ideal for Growing or Complex Businesses
Overview:
Paychex is a well-established name in the payroll and HR services industry. With scalable plans and a wide range of services, it supports businesses of all sizes, including those with more complex payroll and compliance needs.
Key Features:
- Payroll processing and tax filing
- HR compliance support
- Retirement and insurance benefit options
- Time and attendance tracking
- Mobile app for employers and employees
- PEO (Professional Employer Organization) option available
Pros:
- Customizable solutions
- Strong compliance and HR support
- Excellent for businesses with 50+ employees
Best For:
Midsize to large businesses with complex HR needs or multiple locations.
3. OnPay: Best Value for Small Teams
Overview:
OnPay offers simple, affordable payroll and HR software with no hidden fees. It’s designed for small businesses that want robust functionality without high costs.
Key Features:
- Full-service payroll
- Automated tax payments and filings
- Benefits and workers' comp integration
- Basic HR tools
- Multiple integrations with accounting and time tracking apps
Pros:
- Flat monthly pricing
- Excellent customer service
- Easy setup and onboarding
- Handles multiple pay rates and schedules
Best For:
Small businesses, startups, and nonprofits looking for cost-effective payroll software.
4. SurePayroll: Perfect for Microbusinesses and Household Employers
Overview:
SurePayroll, is built for small businesses and household employers (like nannies and caregivers). It focuses on delivering simple and reliable payroll services with an emphasis on ease of use.
Key Features:
- Automated payroll runs
- Tax filing and guarantee
- Mobile app for payroll processing
- Support for nanny payroll
- Flexible payroll schedules
Pros:
- Simple and affordable
- Specialized household employer support
- Mobile-friendly interface
Best For:
Household employers and small businesses with fewer than 10 employees.
5. Sage Payroll: Best for Businesses Already Using Sage Accounting
Overview:
Sage offers payroll services that are tightly integrated with their accounting platform, making it a smart choice for businesses already using Sage for their financials.
Key Features:
- Payroll tax calculations and filings
- Employee self-service portal
- Direct deposit and pay stubs
- Compliance with federal and state regulations
- Syncs with Sage accounting software
Pros:
- Seamless integration with Sage ecosystem
- Good for compliance and reporting
- Suitable for accountants and bookkeepers
Best For:
Businesses already on Sage platforms or those needing robust accounting + payroll functionality.
6. Bambee: Best for HR Compliance and Consulting
Overview:
Bambee isn’t a payroll platform, but it’s a great solution for businesses that want dedicated HR support alongside their payroll operations. Bambee pairs your business with a dedicated HR manager to help you stay compliant and manage employee relations.
Key Features:
- Dedicated HR manager
- HR audits and compliance support
- Custom employee policies and handbooks
- Disciplinary action guidance
- Hiring and termination support
Pros:
- Great for HR guidance and compliance
- Fixed monthly pricing
- Tailored for small businesses
Best For:
Small businesses needing affordable HR compliance support alongside existing payroll tools.
7. Deel: Best for International Payroll & Global Contractors
Overview:
Deel specializes in global payroll and contractor management. If you’re hiring across borders or managing a distributed workforce, Deel offers automated compliance and payment infrastructure in over 150 countries.
Key Features:
- International payroll processing
- Global contractor and EOR (Employer of Record) support
- Localized contracts
- Compliance with international labor laws
- Instant payments in local currencies
Pros:
- Excellent global coverage
- Automates compliance and contracts
- Supports crypto and local currency payouts
Best For:
Startups and remote-first companies with international talent.
Final Thoughts: Which Payroll Solution Is Right for You?
The right payroll provider depends on your business size, location, and unique needs. Here's a quick summary:
- Choose Gusto if you want an all-in-one payroll + HR solution for your growing small business.
- Go with Paychex if your business is scaling and needs robust compliance and customizable features.
- Try OnPay if you're a small team looking for great value and straightforward payroll processing.
- Use SurePayroll for managing household employee payroll or running a microbusiness.
- Pick Sage if you're already in the Sage ecosystem and need integrated payroll and accounting.
- Hire Bambee if you need affordable HR support and help staying compliant.
- Leverage Deel if you're hiring internationally and want a seamless global payroll and compliance experience.
Each of these platforms brings unique strengths to the table. Whether you're focused on cost-efficiency, compliance, or scalability, there's a payroll partner that fits your needs.
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