GUIDE 2024

14 Best Payroll Outsourcing Companies in 2024

Have you ever wondered about the most efficient way to manage your business’s payroll system? 

Payroll Outsourcing Companies are professional service providers that help businesses accurately manage and distribute their employee payments. They’re especially beneficial for small and medium-sized businesses that might not have a dedicated payroll department.

These companies provide a necessary service, which involves tedious calculations, regulatory knowledge, and compliance with both state and federal tax laws. While primarily managing employee paychecks, they also handle time-off accruals, health and retirement benefits, and tax deductions. It’s essentially a one-stop solution for all payroll needs.

Whether you are a start-up trying to establish your footing or a well-established corporation, employing the services of a payroll outsourcing company can save time and resources. This allows you to focus on more strategic and revenue-generating activities, ultimately optimizing your business efficiency.

What do Payroll Outsourcing Companies Do?

Payroll outsourcing companies take over the meticulous and time-consuming task of managing an organization’s payroll. This not only includes distributing wages and salaries but also calculating and deducting the appropriate taxes, managing employee benefits, and ensuring legal compliance in all financial matters.

These companies handle everything from end-to-end, including calculating employees’ working hours, processing wages and bonuses, and providing detailed payroll reports. Additionally, they ensure that companies meet all tax obligations accurately and on time, minimizing any potential penalties.

By entrusting these tasks to payroll outsourcing companies, businesses can shift their attention towards more strategic activities. They can rest assured that their payroll duties are handled efficiently and accurately.

What to Consider When Chosoing a Payroll Outsourcing Company

When choosing a payroll outsourcing company, it’s essential to consider certain key features that can significantly impact the efficiency and accuracy of your payroll process. Here are seven features you should consider:

Comprehensive Services

A good payroll outsourcing company should offer a wide range of services beyond just payroll processing. This includes handling payroll taxes, compliance with local, state, and federal laws, direct deposit setup, wage garnishments, and end-of-year tax forms. Having all these services under one roof can greatly simplify your payroll process and reduce the chances of errors.

Ease of Use

The payroll software provided by the outsourcing company should be user-friendly and intuitive. It should be easy to input data, generate reports, and perform other necessary tasks. An intuitive dashboard that allows you to view and manage all payroll activities at a glance can make the payroll process less time-consuming and more efficient.

Scalability

As your business grows, your payroll needs will change and grow as well. A good payroll company should be able to scale their services to match your business’s growth. This means they should be capable of handling an increasing number of employees, complex compensation structures, and multiple locations, if necessary.

Integration

The ability to integrate with other systems in your business, such as accounting or HR software, is another key feature. Integration can automate data transfer between systems, reducing manual data entry and the risk of errors. It can also give you a more holistic view of your business’s financial situation.

Data Security

Payroll processing involves handling sensitive employee data, including social security numbers and bank account details. The payroll outsourcing company should have robust security measures in place to protect this data. This includes secure data transmission, encryption, and strong access controls.

Customer Service

Excellent customer service is a must when dealing with something as critical as payroll. The company should provide prompt and helpful support to answer any questions or resolve any issues you may have. This might include a dedicated account manager, live chat support, or a 24/7 customer service line.

Compliance Expertise

The payroll outsourcing company should have in-depth knowledge of local, state, and federal payroll laws and regulations. They should ensure your business stays compliant with these laws and keep you updated on any changes that might affect your payroll process. This expertise can save your business from costly penalties and legal issues down the line.

Benefits of Hiring Payroll Outsourcing Companies

Hiring payroll outsourcing companies enables your organization to enjoy the following benefits: 

 

Time-saving: Payroll processing within your business can be time-consuming. Outsourcing payroll allows employers to concentrate on their core business and frees up the time of busy employees.

 

Cost-effective: Direct costs of processing payroll can be greatly reduced by working with a payroll provider.

 

Accuracy and Compliance: Payroll companies are experts in the field of governmental tax regulations and can ensure compliance to avoid costly penalties.

Security: Payroll processing is a complex and potentially risky business operation with risks ranging from identity theft to embezzlement. An outsourcing partner can offer a “safe haven” for your confidential payroll data.

Expertise: Payroll firms have payroll expertise far beyond what you can usually find within a business.

Accountability: If there are errors in tax filing, the payroll service provider often assumes responsibility for their mistakes.

Reliability: In-house payroll activities function as long as your team is present. With a payroll service, output, speed, or quality doesn’t vary in accordance with vacations and illnesses.

Flexibility: Outsourced payroll services usually allow a level of flexibility and adaptability to the business’s needs.

14 Best Payroll Outsourcing Companies to Hire

Here are the top 14 services providers you should consider:

1. Bambee

Bambee tops our list as the best payroll outsourcing company. They offer flexible and cost-effective services that make payroll management simple and efficient. They handle all payroll tasks, ensuring that employees are paid accurately and on time.

Beyond basic payroll management, Bambee provides a comprehensive suite of HR solutions. These include regulatory compliance, employee onboarding, and benefits administration. The company’s interface is user-friendly, making it easy to navigate for all users.

Bambee’s customer support team is another standout feature. They’re available to assist you round the clock, ensuring all your payroll and HR concerns are addressed in a timely manner.

2. OnPay Payroll Software

OnPay offers robust payroll services combined with an efficient software solution. Their payroll system is easy to use and intuitive, catering to all types of businesses. OnPay ensures precise payroll processing and tax filing, alleviating the burden of these tasks from your team.

The software is designed with a scalable infrastructure, making it suitable for businesses of all sizes. It also integrates with many other tools, allowing for seamless data sharing across different platforms.

OnPay provides excellent customer service. They provide a dedicated team of professionals available to assist businesses whenever necessary. With their comprehensive services and reliable support, they rank high on our list.

3. ADP Payroll

ADP is renowned for its comprehensive payroll and HR solutions. They have a proven track record of providing excellent services to businesses of all sizes. With their automated system, they take over the meticulous task of payroll processing and ensure timely and accurate payments.

ADP’s software is robust, offering a myriad of features such as benefits administration, time tracking, and compliance management. They also offer insights and analytics to help businesses make data-driven decisions.

Their customer service is top-notch. A team of experts is always available to provide the necessary support and guidance, ensuring you get the most out of their service.

4. Paychex Payroll

Paychex is a leading payroll service provider known for its comprehensive suite of features. It streamlines payroll management, making it quick and efficient for businesses of all sizes. From accurate wage calculations to timely tax filings, Paychex ensures all payroll tasks are handled efficiently.

Beyond payroll, Paychex also provides HR services, retirement services, and insurance services. This makes it a holistic solution for businesses looking to streamline their operations.

Paychex’s customer service is commendable, with a dedicated team always ready to assist. With their extensive experience and reliable support, they are a trusted choice for many businesses.

5. Gusto Payroll Software

Gusto Payroll Software provides a user-friendly interface that simplifies payroll management. They handle wage calculations, tax deductions, and timely payments, ensuring all payroll tasks are executed flawlessly.

Gusto stands out for its additional HR features, such as benefits administration and time tracking. It also offers employee self-service options, allowing employees to access their pay stubs and tax information.

The customer support offered by Gusto is excellent. Their team of experts is readily available to help navigate any issues and answer all your queries.

6. Paycor

Paycor provides a powerful payroll solution, making it an ideal choice for businesses of all sizes. Their software handles all aspects of payroll management, ensuring accurate and on-time employee payments.

In addition to payroll, Paycor offers other services such as HR management, time & attendance, and reporting & analytics. This provides a well-rounded solution to businesses, simplifying their operations.

Paycor’s customer service is exceptional. Their team of experts is available to offer support and guidance whenever needed, ensuring a seamless experience.

7. Intuit QuickBooks Payroll

Intuit QuickBooks Payroll is a renowned name in the business world. It offers an integrated payroll solution within its accounting software. Their services cover all aspects of payroll management, from calculating paychecks to filing tax returns, making it a complete solution for businesses.

One of QuickBooks’ most distinctive features is its seamless integration with its accounting software. This allows for real-time updates of financial records and effortless data management.

The customer service offered by QuickBooks is commendable. They have a dedicated team of experts who provide timely assistance and ensure that businesses can make the most of their services.

8. Deluxe

Deluxe provides a robust and reliable payroll service ideal for small to medium-sized businesses. They manage all payroll-related tasks, ensuring that employees are paid accurately and on time.

One standout feature of Deluxe is their cloud-based platform, which provides businesses with easy access to payroll data at any time. They also offer additional services such as HR solutions and tax assistance.

Deluxe has a highly responsive customer support team that provides excellent service. They are available round the clock to answer queries and provide assistance.

9. Rippling Payroll

Rippling offers a powerful and user-friendly payroll service that streamlines payroll management. Their system handles all payroll tasks, from wage calculations to tax filings, ensuring that all operations are carried out seamlessly.

Rippling’s platform integrates with other business systems, including HR and benefits, to provide a unified solution. This integration enhances data accuracy and reduces the time spent on data entry.

Their customer service team is readily available to assist with any questions or issues, providing a smooth and hassle-free experience for users.

10. Square Payroll

Square Payroll is known for its simplicity and efficiency. Designed for small businesses, they take the burden of payroll management off your shoulders, ensuring that all tasks are executed accurately.

One of the distinctive features of Square Payroll is its integration with other Square solutions, such as point-of-sale systems, enabling seamless data flow and ensuring real-time updates of payroll records.

Square offers excellent customer support, with a team of experts always ready to assist businesses in managing their payroll effectively.

11. Papaya Global Payroll

Papaya Global offers a comprehensive payroll solution that’s especially useful for businesses with international operations. They manage global payroll, ensuring compliance with local laws and regulations.

In addition to payroll, Papaya Global also offers services such as benefits management and workforce management. Their platform supports a wide range of currencies and payment methods, accommodating the needs of diverse workforces.

The customer support team at Papaya Global is always ready to assist, providing prompt and effective service.

12. Remote Payroll

Remote Payroll is a go-to solution for companies with a global workforce. They handle international payroll complexities, including compliance with local employment laws and regulations, ensuring seamless operations.

Remote’s platform is user-friendly and efficient, providing a seamless experience for businesses. Their services also extend to benefits management, making it a comprehensive solution for international businesses.

The customer support offered by Remote is excellent. Their team of experts is always ready to assist and provide the necessary guidance.

13. SurePayroll

SurePayroll offers an easy-to-use payroll service, making it an ideal choice for small businesses. They handle all aspects of payroll, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.

One standout feature of SurePayroll is its mobile app, which allows businesses to manage their payroll on the go. They also offer services such as tax management and HR solutions.

SurePayroll’s customer service team is highly responsive and ready to assist, ensuring a smooth and efficient payroll management experience.

14. TriNet

TriNet provides a comprehensive payroll solution, handling all aspects of payroll processing efficiently. They cater to businesses of all sizes, offering a scalable solution that can grow with your business.

In addition to payroll, TriNet offers other HR services such as benefits management and compliance, making it a one-stop solution for businesses.

Their customer service team is readily available to assist and guide businesses, ensuring they can make the most out of their services. With their comprehensive solution and excellent support, TriNet is a trusted choice for many businesses.

Is Hiring Payroll Outsourcing Companies Worth it?

Opting for payroll outsourcing can be an investment that pays off significantly in the long run. They provide a comprehensive solution for payroll management, ensuring that all processes are executed accurately and on time. By taking care of this critical yet time-consuming task, they free up your team’s time to focus on more strategic initiatives.

Additionally, payroll companies offer expertise in tax laws and regulations. This mitigates the risk of errors and non-compliance penalties, providing peace of mind for business owners. 

Moreover, they handle all the complex paperwork, reducing the burden on your in-house team.

Finally, payroll outsourcing companies typically provide scalable solutions. This means they can adapt their services to match your business growth, making them a long-term partner for your enterprise. With their robust systems and knowledgeable teams, these service providers prove to be a worthwhile investment for any business.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Below, we’ve compiled and answered some of the most frequently asked questions about payroll outsourcing services:

1. What is a Payroll Outsourcing Company?

A Payroll Outsourcing Company, or a payroll provider, is a service that manages all payroll-related activities for a business. These activities include calculating wages, deducting payroll taxes and benefits, and ensuring compliance with tax laws.

2. Who can benefit from a Payroll Outsourcing Company?

Any business can benefit from a Payroll Outsourcing Company. They are particularly beneficial for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that may not have a dedicated department to process payroll.

3. How does a Payroll Outsourcing Company work?

Payroll outsourcing providers take over the entire payroll process. This includes calculating wages based on hours worked, processing payroll taxes and other deductions, and distributing the pay via direct deposit to employees. They also handle all tax filings and ensure compliance matters are up to date.

4. What are the main benefits of hiring a Payroll Outsourcing Company?

The main benefits include time-saving, cost-effectiveness, accuracy, compliance, data security, and access to their expertise. They handle employee data with utmost security and precision, ensuring reliability and accountability in the payroll process.

5. What are some of the best Payroll Outsourcing Companies in 2024?

Some of the top payroll outsourcing companies include Bambee, OnPay Payroll Software, ADP Payroll, Paychex Payroll, and Gusto Payroll Software.

6. Is it worth hiring a Payroll Outsourcing Company?

Yes, outsourcing payroll to a dedicated company is worth the investment. These payroll providers deliver accurate, timely services, ensure compliance with payroll tax laws, offer data security for sensitive employee data, and free up your team’s time to focus on other strategic activities. Moreover, they provide a scalable service that can grow with your business.

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Josh Fechter
Josh Fechter is the founder of HR.University. He's a certified HR professional and has managed global teams across 5 different continents including their benefits and payroll. You can connect with him on LinkedIn here.