ezPayCheck Alternatives: Comparing Top Payroll SolutionsPayroll software is a critical tool for small and medium-sized businesses. While ezPayCheck is known for its simplicity and affordability, it may lack advanced features some companies need—such as integrated HR, automated tax filing, multi-state payroll scaling, or extensive reporting. Below is a thorough comparison of top ezPayCheck alternatives to help you choose the best payroll solution for your business needs.
What to look for in a payroll solution
Choosing payroll software depends on your company’s size, budget, tax complexity, and whether you need HR or benefits features. Key factors to consider:
- Ease of use and setup
- Automated tax calculations and filings
- Direct deposit and multiple pay methods
- Multi-state payroll support
- Integration with accounting and time-tracking tools
- Customer support quality and availability
- Pricing model (per-employee vs. flat fee)
- Compliance and security
Quick feature snapshot (summary)
| Software | Best for | Key strengths | Pricing overview |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gusto | Small to mid-size businesses wanting full-service payroll + HR | Full-service payroll, automated tax filing, benefits administration, onboarding | Starts per month + per-employee fee; built-in HR features at higher tiers |
| QuickBooks Payroll | Businesses already using QuickBooks accounting | Deep accounting integration, robust reporting, auto payroll options | Monthly base + per-employee; multiple tiers including full-service tax filing |
| Paychex Flex | Growing businesses and enterprises | Scalable, strong HR and benefits offerings, PEO option | Custom pricing; scalable plans for growth |
| ADP Run | Businesses of all sizes needing enterprise-grade features | Payroll tax expertise, extensive compliance, global reach | Tiered pricing; enterprise pricing available |
| Patriot Software | Budget-conscious small businesses | Simple interface, payroll + basic accounting, low cost | Lower-priced plans with optional full-service tax filing add-on |
Detailed comparisons
Gusto
Gusto is often recommended for startups and small-to-medium businesses that want payroll tightly coupled with HR tools. It handles payroll taxes automatically, supports benefits (health insurance, 401(k)), and offers onboarding and time tracking integrations.
Pros:
- Automated federal, state, and local tax filing
- Strong employee self-service and onboarding tools
- Benefits and retirement plan administration
Cons:
- Cost increases with feature tiers
- Some advanced HR features limited to higher plans
Best for: Businesses that want an all-in-one payroll + HR experience without managing multiple vendors.
QuickBooks Payroll
If you use QuickBooks for accounting, QuickBooks Payroll is an obvious choice for seamless integration. It syncs payroll entries with your books automatically and offers options like same-day direct deposit and tax penalty protection on higher tiers.
Pros:
- Seamless QuickBooks integration
- Multiple payroll speeds (next-day, same-day)
- Robust reporting tied to accounting data
Cons:
- Can be pricier than simpler payroll-only tools
- Occasional support issues reported during peak tax periods
Best for: Companies already in the QuickBooks ecosystem or with complex accounting needs.
Paychex Flex
Paychex Flex scales well from small businesses to larger enterprises. It provides comprehensive HR services, benefits administration, recruiting, and a PEO (professional employer organization) option for deeper outsourcing.
Pros:
- Scalable HR and payroll features
- Strong compliance support
- PEO option available
Cons:
- Pricing can be on the higher side for small firms
- Interface can feel complex for very small teams
Best for: Growing businesses that anticipate scaling or needing deeper HR support.
ADP Run
ADP is a long-standing payroll and HR provider with robust compliance and reporting capabilities. ADP Run suits businesses needing enterprise-grade payroll, multi-state complexity, and extensive integrations.
Pros:
- Extensive payroll tax and compliance expertise
- Strong reporting and analytics
- Global payroll options for multinational needs
Cons:
- Higher cost; smaller businesses may find it overkill
- Contract and onboarding can be more involved
Best for: Mid-size to large companies or those with complex compliance across states/countries.
Patriot Software
Patriot offers affordable payroll and accounting for small businesses, focusing on simplicity and low cost. It provides essential payroll features and optional full-service tax filing for an additional fee.
Pros:
- Very budget-friendly
- Easy setup and straightforward interface
- Optional full-service payroll tax filing
Cons:
- Fewer HR features and integrations compared with Gusto or ADP
- Limited advanced reporting and analytics
Best for: Small businesses or startups with tight budgets that need straightforward payroll.
Feature matrix (direct comparison)
| Feature | Gusto | QuickBooks Payroll | Paychex Flex | ADP Run | Patriot |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Automated tax filing | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Optional |
| Benefits administration | Yes | Limited | Yes | Yes | No |
| Direct deposit | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-state payroll | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Limited |
| Accounting integration | Moderate | Excellent | Moderate | High | Basic |
| HR tools & onboarding | Yes | Limited | Extensive | Extensive | Minimal |
| Pricing starting point | Mid | Mid | Variable | High | Low |
How to choose the right alternative
- If you need HR + benefits: consider Gusto or Paychex.
- If you already use QuickBooks: QuickBooks Payroll for seamless accounting sync.
- If you need enterprise-level compliance or global payroll: ADP.
- If budget is the primary concern: Patriot for core payroll at low cost.
Implementation tips
- Run payroll in parallel for one cycle (if possible) to validate results before fully switching.
- Check state and local tax support for your locations—some vendors lag on localities.
- Ask about hidden fees: year-end tax forms, additional state registrations, or setup charges.
- Confirm integration availability for your time-tracking and accounting tools.
Final thoughts
If ezPayCheck’s simplicity and price are attractive, Patriot or QuickBooks Payroll (if you use QuickBooks) are closest in spirit. For businesses that want more HR, benefits, and automation as they grow, Gusto, Paychex, or ADP are better fits depending on scale and budget.
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