Best tools / Payroll
Payroll and hiring for new businesses
Pay your first employee correctly, with the tax filings done for you.
Gusto
Full-service payroll with automatic tax filings, a common pick for a first employee.
RUN Powered by ADP
ADP's small business payroll, with tax filing and HR add-ons.
Patriot Software
Budget payroll with free setup and US-based support, built for very small employers.
OnPay
Flat-price payroll with tax filings and HR tools included.
Homebase
Free scheduling and time clock for hourly crews, with payroll when you need it.
How to choose
You need payroll the moment you pay an employee. Full-service payroll files the taxes for you; check the per-person price and whether it includes workers' comp administration.
Listed in no particular order. Prices are the companies' own published starting prices, checked October 2026; confirm on their site. Some links are partner links and we may earn a fee if you sign up, at no cost to you.