Top 7 Alternatives to Sage Payroll for Efficient Employee Payment

Finding the right payroll software can be daunting. With the many options available, pinpointing the ideal alternative to Sage Payroll becomes more challenging.

If your business is seeking specialized features and a unique pricing structure or is curious about the variety of options beyond Sage Payroll, here are seven alternatives that could align with your requirements.

1. ZarMoney

ZarMoney is a cloud-based accounting solution created for companies of all measures. It presents a complete strategy as an alternative to Sage Payroll, having extensive feature integration and a user-friendly interface.

After integrating ZarMoney with Gusto, you can access a wide range of payroll services. Combining these two vital tools enables you to manage payroll efficiently for both larger and smaller companies.

Features of ZarMoney

Accounting
Accounts Receivable
Tax compliance
Financial reporting
Payroll management
Dynamic statements
Invoice
Billing
Order management
Payment reconciliation

Top 3 Features of ZarMoney

1. Comprehensive Payroll Management

Connecting ZarMoney to Gusto gives you access to various payroll services. The comprehensive payroll management includes calculating wages and bonuses, managing tax payments, and filing.

You can set up different pay types, deductions, and benefits, making it easy to customize payroll for your specific needs.

2. Tax Compliance and Reporting

One of ZarMoney's standout features is its tax compliance tools. It automates tax calculations and helps ensure your business complies with changing tax regulations.

Additionally, it generates essential tax reports and files them electronically, simplifying the often complex task of payroll tax management.

3. Dynamic Statements

Dynamic Statements feature allows instant verification of reported transactions against actual bank statements with a simple click. ZarMoney facilitates easy data annotation and comparison, putting control at your fingertips.

Effortlessly generate balance sheets, cash flow statements, and customized earnings reports to meet your business's specific needs.

Pros of ZarMoney

Affordable Pricing Structure.
Effortless Invoicing and Billing.
Automate your sales tax calculation.
Highly customizable invoices and flawless integration with accounting software.

Cons of ZarMoney

The learning curve for new payroll platform users.
An internet connection is required for cloud-based features.

Supported Platforms of ZarMoney

Web
Mac.com
Windows
Linux
Chromebook

Pricing of ZarMoney

ZarMoney has three pricing plans

15 Days Free trial
Entrepreneur $15 / month / 1 user
Small Business $20 / month / 2 users
Enterprise $350 / month / 30+ users

Final Verdict on ZarMoney

ZarMoney stands out as a strong Sage Payroll alternative, offering a user-friendly interface and affordability that makes it a top choice for payroll solutions. It combines complete payroll management, multi-state payroll capabilities, and exceptional security in one efficient, accurate, and easy-to-use package for professionals across various industries.

2. APS Payroll

APS Payroll, an amazing alternative to Sage Payroll, has established itself as one of the leading payroll and HR solutions providers. You get everything you need to make sure everyone gets paid correctly and on time, like easy-to-use tools for calculating pay, handling taxes without errors, and options for direct deposit.

Basically, it's user-friendly and backed up with good support, making it a stress-free choice for small to large companies.

Features of APS Payroll

Payroll management
Recruiting and onboarding
Attendance
Analytics
Reporting
Employee self-service
Payroll imports and exports
Tax compliance

Top 3 Features of APS Payroll

1. Payroll Management Solution

The payroll management solution from APS provides a centralized system where businesses can manage and process their employee payrolls efficiently.

It includes working employee hours, overtime, deductions, and other payroll-related data.

2. Payroll Imports and Exports

The ability to import and export data is critical for businesses that use multiple systems. APS allows effortless integration with other software solutions, smoothing platform data flow.

Depending on the business's unique requirements, the import/export feature allows customization to handle specific data fields.

3. Tax Compliance

Tax laws and rates are ever-changing. APS makes sure its software is always up-to-date with the latest tax tables, including compliance with federal, state, and local tax regulations.

The software can auto-generate necessary tax filings based on the payroll data, reducing manual work and the possibility of errors in tax submissions.

Pros of APS Payroll

Intuitive design, easy for all tech skill levels
Ensures compliance with tax laws and payroll regulations
User-friendly interface

Cons of APS Payroll

Higher cost for advanced features
Challenges integrating with other software
The learning curve for new users

Supported Platforms of APS Payroll

Browser access on Windows, macOS, Linux
Mobile apps available for iOS and Android for access anywhere

Pricing of APS Payroll

Payroll starts at $5 per employee/month + $50 base fee/month.
Payroll + Attendance starts at $8 per employee/month + base fee.
Payroll + HR + Attendance starts at $11 per employee/month + base fee.

Final Verdict on APS Payroll

APS Payroll, a Sage Payroll alternative, focuses on HR tasks, offering efficient employee management, benefits administration, and compliance. However, its features beyond HR are more limited compared to broader business management solutions.

The pricing for the complete package of APS Payroll is also considered somewhat expensive.

3. PrimePay

PrimePay steps in as another excellent choice for businesses looking to switch from Sage Payroll for their employee payment needs. It covers all the bases – from accurate tax management to timely payments for every team member, including direct deposit options.

PrimePay is built to be easy to use, aiming to reduce the usual time and stress associated with payroll tasks. It suits businesses of all sizes, offering a clear and efficient solution for payroll management without complications.

Features of PrimePay

Payroll
Taxes
HR management
Time and attendance
Compliance
Employee direct deposit
Tax processing

Top 3 Features of PrimePay

1. Payroll

PrimePay's payroll system is designed to be user-friendly, ensuring businesses can efficiently process their payroll without the hassle.

The software automates calculations, thus reducing the chance of errors. It's built to integrate with various HR systems, time & attendance solutions, and other tools to make the payroll process seamless.

2. Employee Direct Deposit

Direct deposit means workers get their wages credited straight to their bank accounts. It is faster and eliminates the need for paper checks, making the process more environment-friendly and efficient.
Employees can split their pay between different accounts for better financial management.

3. Tax Processing

PrimePay calculates, files, and pays the employer's federal, state, and local taxes. This automation ensures businesses are on time for their tax payments and avoid penalties.

Pros of PrimePay

All-in-one platform for payroll, HR, and benefits
Wide range of features
Auto-calculates deducts, pays, and files payroll taxes

Cons of PrimePay

Potential for a learning curve if new to payroll systems.
Integration issues with existing HR or financial software.
Limited customization options for unique business needs.

Supported Platforms of PrimePay

Web-based: Access from any internet-enabled device
Mobile apps for iOS and Android for access anywhere

Pricing for PrimePay

PrimePay offers customizable pricing plans that are custom-made to meet the specific payroll needs of any business.

Each plan, from Payroll Essentials to HCM Premium, is designed to provide flexible and comprehensive solutions with optional managed services for added support.

Final Verdict on PrimePay

PrimePay, a great alternative to Sage Payroll, is an all-inclusive payroll service provider known for its comprehensive solutions for small to medium-sized businesses.

With features ranging from payroll processing to HR and benefits administration, it offers businesses an integrated approach to managing employee-related functions efficiently.

4. Paycor

Paycor, a great alternative to Sage Payroll, is another industry-leading solution that provides modern and intuitive payroll, HR, and timekeeping services. Known for its ease of use and functionalities, Paycor has carved a niche among businesses of varying sizes.

It's designed to integrate effortlessly with other HR tools, making the entire HR process smoother.

Features of Paycor

Payroll processing
Tax compliance
Expense management
Compensation planning
Pay solutions
Video interviewing
Reporting
Analytics
Employee self service

Top 3 Features of Paycor

1. User-Friendly Payroll Processing

Paycor allows users to run payroll with a single click, optimizing the process and reducing the time spent on payroll calculations.

Before finalizing, users can preview payroll to ensure everything is correct. It helps in detecting any mistakes or differences.

2. Tax Compliance

Paycor handles federal, state, and local tax calculations for timely tax filings. It minimizes the likelihood of mistakes and subsequent penalties.

3. Employee Self-Service

Employees access pay stubs, tax information, and other relevant data through Paycor's mobile application.

It offers numerous payment possibilities, including direct deposit and pay cards, catering to diverse worker preferences.

Pros of Paycor

Features timekeeping, recruiting, and learning management beyond payroll
Suitable for small to large businesses
Strong analytics and reporting

Cons of Paycor

Setup and implementation can be challenging
Advanced features may incur extra costs
Occasional system outages or glitches are reported

Supported Platforms of Paycor

Web-based interface available
Mobile apps for iOS and Android

Pricing of Paycor

Paycor delivers customizable HR and payroll solutions for businesses, small to large, with pricing according to company size and needs.

Final Verdict on Paycor

Paycor is equipped with tools for recruiting, HR, timekeeping, and benefits administration, among others.

Catered to a range of businesses, from small startups to larger enterprises, Paycor is recognized for its user-friendly interface and insightful analytics.

5. Gusto

Gusto, an incredible alternative to Sage Payroll, is primarily known for its payroll services and also offers a range of HR tools that make it easier for businesses to onboard, pay, insure, and support their team.

With a user-friendly interface and a focus on simplifying complex processes, Gusto is a favorite among many startups and SMEs.

Features of Gusto

Automated payroll processing
Employee benefits
HR
Attendance
Onboarding
Insights and reporting
Compliance and tax fillings
Advanced integrations

Top 3 Features of Gusto

1. Automated Payroll Processing

Gusto offers an automatic payroll system. Beyond mere calculation, the service guarantees taxes are submitted to the appropriate government agencies with every payroll run.

Unlike other providers who may levy additional charges for this essential feature, it's provided here at no extra cost.

2. Compliance and Tax Filings

Gusto handles all tax-related compliance for businesses. The software automatically computes, pays, and files employees' applicable local, state, and federal taxes.

3. Integrated Benefits Administration

Besides the primary payroll features, Gusto also offers benefits administration. Employers can directly manage health insurance, retirement plans, HSAs, and more through the platform.

These benefits comply with federal regulations and sync with payroll to deduct benefits costs automatically.

Pros of Gusto

The intuitive interface simplifies startup
Range of HR tools available
Manages payroll taxes automatically

Cons of Gusto

Not ideal for large businesses
HR features lack comprehensiveness
Limited third-party integrations

Supported Platforms of Gusto

Web-based interface
Some mobile/on-the-go capabilities via third-party apps and integrations

Pricing of Gusto

Simple plan: $40/month
Plus plan: $60/month
Premium has exclusive pricing

Final Verdict on Gusto

Gusto is popular with small to mid-sized businesses, but its limited integration with third-party apps may reduce its appeal. Despite its user-friendliness and core HR functions, this limitation can affect firms needing broader tool compatibility.

Additionally, Gusto's cost may be high for smaller businesses on strict budgets.

6. Patriot Payroll

Patriot Payroll is a cloud-based payroll processing solution customized primarily for small businesses. It offers an intuitive platform to manage employee payments and handle federal, state, and local payroll taxes.

Patriot Payroll takes charge of calculating, filing, and depositing payroll taxes with the appropriate federal, state, and local agencies.

Features of Patriot Payroll

Payroll setup
Expert support
Pay frequencies
Unlimited payrolls
Mobile friendly
Time and attendance

Top 3 Features of Patriot Payroll

1. Payroll Setup

Setting up payroll can be daunting, especially for those unfamiliar with the process. One of the strengths of Patriot Payroll is its user-friendly interface.

Even those with limited payroll experience can set up their company's payroll without hassle.

2. Unlimited Payrolls

Regardless of how frequently a business runs its payroll (weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, etc.), Patriot Payroll allows an unlimited number of payrolls to be processed monthly. This flexibility is essential for businesses with varying payroll needs.

3. Time and Attendance

Patriot Payroll can integrate with time and attendance systems, guaranteeing employee hours are accurately logged and processed for payroll.

It decreases the chances of blunders, which can lead to overpayments or underpayments. Employees can log in to view their timecards, request time off, and check their attendance history.

Pros of Patriot Payroll

Intuitive interface for easy learning
Compliant payroll processing
Strong customer support feedback

Cons of Patriot Payroll

It has fewer HR features
Limited reporting capabilities
Limited software integration

Supported Platforms of Patriot Payroll

Web browsers
iOS
Android

Pricing of Patriot Payroll

Basic Payroll: $17/month
Full-Service Payroll: $37/month

Final Verdict on Patriot Payroll

Businesses seeking a broader array of HR and integration features might be somewhat restrictive. It's best suited for those who want a focused payroll system without the frills of extended HR functionalities.

Its simplicity and focus on payroll make it less suited for organizations that require advanced HR functionalities and extensive integration with a wide range of business applications.

7. Rippling

Rippling, another alternative to Sage Payroll, is an all-in-one solution that integrates payroll with HR, IT, and other administrative functions.

Aimed at businesses of all sizes, it's more than just payroll software – it offers a comprehensive toolset for employee management, from onboarding to equipment management.

Features of Rippling

Payroll
Time and attendance
Recruiting
Learning management
Unlimited Payrolls
Performance management