Best Payroll for Small Business 2026
Small businesses need simple, affordable payroll that handles taxes, direct deposit, and compliance without requiring an HR department.
🏆 Top Pick
Gusto
$40+$6/personThe small business payroll standard. Friendliest interface, transparent pricing, auto-tax filing, and benefits all in one.
$40+$6/personAuto tax filingBenefitsOnboardingEasy interface
Visit Gusto →🥈 Runner Up
OnPay
$40+$6/personSimpler alternative to Gusto. Same price, one plan, everything included. 1-month free trial to test with real payroll.
$40+$6/personOne planFree trialAuto taxesNo upsells
Visit OnPay →💡 Also Great
Not sure? Take the full HR & Payroll Software quiz for a personalized pick →
Paychex
~$39/moScalable with dedicated support. Assigned specialist knows your business. Grows with you from 1 employee to mid-market.
~$39/moDedicated specialistScalableWorkers compRetirement
Visit Paychex →Affiliate Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. All pricing reflects current publicly available rates. Our quiz results are determined by the scoring engine, not by commission rates. Learn how our scoring works.