Top 20 payroll outsourcing companies
List of payroll outsourcing companies
- Automatic Data Processing (ADP)
- Paychex
- Gusto
- Paycor
- Workday
- Ultimate Kronos Group (UKG)
- Dayforce
- Square Payroll
- Papaya Global
- TriNet
- OnPay
- Bamboo HR
- Zoho Payroll
- Paycom
- Oyster
- Intuit QuickBooks
- Complete Payroll Solutions (CPS)
- Paylocity
- SurePayroll
- Justworks
Payroll outsourcing allows businesses to delegate payroll processing, tax filing, and compliance tasks to third-party providers. This approach helps organizations reduce administrative burdens, minimize errors, and stay aligned with local and international labor regulations.
It also supports cost-efficiency and gives companies the flexibility to focus on core operations while experts handle complex payroll functions. As businesses scale across borders, the demand for trusted payroll service providers continues to rise.
This article highlights the top 20 payroll outsourcing companies that help global businesses streamline their workforce management and maintain accurate, compliant payroll systems.
Payroll outsourcing best practices
Outsourcing payroll functions to a reliable third-party provider offers businesses significant advantages.
To fully capitalize on the benefits, global firms must follow specific best practices when engaging payroll outsourcing services:
Define clear objectives
Set specific goals before initiating any outsourcing engagement. Identify the services needed (i.e., tax filing, direct deposits, or employee self-service portals) to align the partnership with business priorities.
Vet providers thoroughly
Evaluate potential providers based on their track record, industry experience, compliance expertise, and use of secure technology. Choose a vendor with a transparent process and proven success in handling payroll at scale.
Establish strong communication channels
Maintain open and consistent communication with the provider. Regular updates, reporting, and feedback loops help avoid misunderstandings and support smooth operations.
Understand local and global compliance
Stay informed about the compliance standards relevant to your business locations. Work closely with your provider to manage jurisdiction-specific requirements, such as tax laws, benefits regulations, and labor rules.
Secure employee data
Prioritize data protection. Select a provider that uses advanced security protocols, encryption, and access controls to protect sensitive payroll and employee information.
Review contracts and SLAs carefully
Examine service-level agreements to define response times, performance benchmarks, and accountability. A well-structured contract reduces legal risks and strengthens the business-provider relationship.
Monitor and evaluate performance
Regularly assess the provider’s output against defined KPIs. Monitoring helps identify gaps early and supports continuous improvement in payroll processing.
Build successful, long-term partnerships with payroll outsourcing companies and drive greater efficiency, accuracy, and compliance in your workforce operations.
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Top 20 payroll outsourcing companies
Looking for the right payroll outsourcing company that truly understands your operational needs and processes can be overwhelming
Below, we have broken down 20 of the best payroll outsourcing companies in the market today:
1. Automatic Data Processing (ADP)
ADP is a global leader in payroll and human capital management solutions, offering comprehensive services to businesses of all sizes. It is known for its robust technology, security, and reliability.
ADP supports organizations with scalable payroll processing and integrated HR tools. Its global reach and deep industry experience make it a top choice for companies seeking a seasoned provider.
This payroll outsourcing firm’s extensive offerings cater to complex workforce needs, making it a trusted name in payroll outsourcing companies.
2. Paychex
Paychex delivers scalable payroll and HR solutions tailored for small to mid-sized businesses.
With over 45 years of experience, it combines reliable service with user-friendly technology to support growing business needs. Its platform adapts as companies expand, offering tools for payroll, benefits, and compliance.
Round-the-clock customer support and strong industry reputation make it a preferred partner. Paychex stands out among payroll outsourcing companies for its flexible approach and commitment to client success.
3. Gusto
Gusto offers an intuitive cloud-based payroll platform designed specifically for small businesses and startups. It has a clean interface and transparent pricing, and it automates key payroll tasks while providing essential HR features.
Businesses benefit from tools for employee onboarding, tax filings, and contractor payments. Gusto’s customer-focused service and regular feature updates enhance overall usability.
Among payroll outsourcing companies, Gusto is ideal for organizations looking for simplicity, automation, and excellent support in one platform.
4. Paycor
Paycor provides integrated payroll and human capital management software built for small to mid-sized companies. Its platform offers modern design, mobile accessibility, and tools for talent acquisition, time tracking, and workforce planning.
Paycor supports seamless payroll operations while centralizing HR functions. The company’s strong customer service and scalable HCM features help businesses streamline administrative processes.
It ranks highly among payroll outsourcing companies for its user-first experience and efficient, all-in-one workforce management capabilities.
5. Workday
Workday delivers an enterprise-grade cloud platform combining payroll, human capital management, and financial operations in one system.
Built for large organizations, Workday enables strategic planning and real-time decision-making through advanced analytics and customizable workflows. Its unified architecture simplifies operations and drives digital transformation at scale.
Businesses rely on Workday for its flexibility, security, and depth of functionality. Workday supports future-ready enterprises with complex workforce needs.
6. Ultimate Kronos Group (UKG)
UKG, formed through the merger of Ultimate Software and Kronos, offers UKG Pro, an all-in-one platform for payroll, HR, and talent management.
This company places a strong focus on employee experience and organizational culture through people-centric tools and flexible solutions.
Its unified technology supports efficient operations and fosters long-term workforce engagement. UKG is known for excellent support and community resources. It remains a top contender among payroll outsourcing companies serving businesses that value culture-driven growth.
7. Dayforce
Dayforce, formerly Ceridian, offers a cloud-based human capital management platform providing comprehensive payroll, benefits, and workforce management services.
It supports organizations of all sizes, helping them navigate complex international compliance and optimize workforce performance. The company is known for its advanced analytics and strong global presence.
Dayforce’s scalable solutions and real-time data capabilities make it an excellent choice for companies seeking a holistic approach to HR and payroll in a unified system.
8. Square Payroll
Square Payroll is an intuitive, cost-effective payroll solution designed for small and medium-sized businesses, particularly in retail and hospitality. Integrated seamlessly with the Square POS system, it simplifies payroll processing and time tracking for employers.
Square Payroll’s straightforward interface, low cost, and ability to handle contractor payroll make it ideal for businesses already using Square’s ecosystem, providing an efficient solution for managing payroll needs.
9. Papaya Global
Papaya Global delivers a cloud-based payroll solution that streamlines international payroll, employee benefits, and workforce management for multinational companies.
Papaya Global offers both local and global compliance expertise, which is ideal for businesses with complex international payroll needs. The platform simplifies operations across borders while ensuring compliance in multiple jurisdictions.
Its scalability and flexibility make it an excellent option for companies managing global workforces, including those requiring Employer of Record services.
10. TriNet
TriNet is a professional employer organization (PEO) that provides comprehensive payroll and HR solutions to small and medium-sized businesses. It simplifies complex HR tasks, offering payroll, benefits, and compliance management.
TriNet’s tailored, industry-specific solutions provide businesses with access to premium benefits and expert compliance support, helping to reduce HR burdens and mitigate risks. It is best suited for companies seeking full-service HR support alongside payroll processing.
11. OnPay
OnPay simplifies payroll for small and medium-sized businesses with a user-friendly platform and transparent pricing.
Its services include a comprehensive payroll, HR, and benefits management, providing a straightforward approach to payroll without hidden fees.
The service includes CPA-reviewed payroll accuracy guarantees and outstanding customer support. OnPay is a reliable choice for firms needing efficient, cost-effective payroll solutions that are easy to use.
12. Bamboo HR
BambooHR is a cloud-based HR platform designed for small and growing businesses, combining HRIS and payroll management in one seamless solution. Its intuitive interface simplifies HR and payroll processes, making it easy to manage talent, benefits, and compliance.
BambooHR is perfect for businesses looking for an integrated system that handles both HR and payroll functions efficiently, providing a comprehensive solution for employee management and tax filing.
13. Zoho Payroll
Zoho Payroll is a simple, affordable cloud-based payroll solution that integrates well with Zoho’s suite of business apps. Zoho is perfect for small businesses, as its platform has intuitive features to manage payroll and compliance needs.
Its seamless integration with other Zoho applications makes it an excellent choice for businesses already using Zoho products.
Zoho Payroll provides a straightforward, budget-friendly solution for startups and small enterprises looking for easy payroll management.
14. Paycom
Paycom delivers an all-in-one HR and payroll software solution designed for companies of all sizes. The platform offers a single-database system, enabling real-time data access across all HR functions, from recruitment and onboarding to payroll and talent management.
Its highly customizable features cater to a variety of business needs, while the robust mobile app supports both managers and employees.
Paycom is ideal for organizations looking for a comprehensive, seamless platform that manages the entire employee lifecycle efficiently.
15. Oyster
Oyster is a global payroll provider offering worldwide coverage with over 99% accuracy. It integrates seamlessly with popular HR tools such as BambooHR, Expensify, Workday, and Personio.
Oyster simplifies the complexities of managing payroll for international teams, providing compliance expertise across multiple regions.
Its scalable solutions are designed to accommodate businesses expanding globally, making it the ideal choice for companies seeking a reliable and streamlined global payroll solution.
16. Intuit QuickBooks
Intuit QuickBooks offers comprehensive payroll services that help businesses manage payroll, taxes, and employee benefits.
Trusted by over 1.4 million businesses, it provides an array of features, including healthcare plans, 401(k) offerings, workers’ compensation, and HR advisor services.
QuickBooks integrates seamlessly into businesses’ accounting workflows. It is a preferred solution for companies looking for an efficient, easy-to-use payroll platform that also manages taxes and employee benefits.
17. Complete Payroll Solutions (CPS)
Complete Payroll Solutions (CPS) provides payroll-focused services to businesses across all 50 US states. CPS serves over 10,000 clients with solutions designed for daily, weekly, and monthly payroll tasks.
CPS offers a comprehensive range of payroll services. It simplifies the complexities of payroll management for businesses of all sizes, ensuring timely and accurate processing while providing excellent customer support.
18. Paylocity
Paylocity is an award-winning payroll solution offering both regular and global payroll services. This is among the payroll outsourcing companies recognized by G2, Forbes, Built In, and TrustRadius in 2024.
Its platform is known for its mobile functionality and user-friendly interface. The solution is ideal for businesses of all sizes, providing features that support payroll automation, benefits management, and human resources functions.
Paylocity’s flexibility and scalability make it a top choice for organizations seeking a comprehensive payroll and HR solution.
19. SurePayroll
SurePayroll offers an affordable, cloud-based payroll service tailored for freelancers, solopreneurs, and small businesses. It simplifies payroll calculations, direct deposits, and tax filings, while automating year-end W-2/1099 generation.
SurePayroll also provides employee self-service portals, benefits administration, and 24/7 customer support. This streamlined solution is ideal for small companies looking for an easy-to-use, cost-effective payroll platform that ensures tax compliance and reduces administrative tasks.
20. Justworks
Justworks is a Professional Employer Organization (PEO) that offers full-service payroll, benefits, and HR compliance solutions. It’s an all-in-one platform that simplifies payroll processing, tax filings, and benefits administration for growing businesses.
Justworks provides small businesses with access to enterprise-level health benefits and dedicated HR support, alongside transparent pricing and a user-friendly interface.
It is an excellent choice for businesses looking to streamline HR processes while enhancing the employee experience.
Considerations before partnering with a payroll outsourcing company
Partnering with a payroll outsourcing company can simplify payroll management and help businesses focus on growth. However, selecting the right provider requires careful consideration to avoid potential issues.
Here are important factors to evaluate before making a decision:
- Compliance and security. Choose a provider with a strong track record of compliance with local and global regulations. Data security protocols are essential for safeguarding sensitive employee information.
- Scalability. The payroll provider should be able to grow with the business. A scalable solution is critical for businesses planning to expand or those experiencing fluctuating payroll needs.
- Customer support. Responsive customer service is vital for resolving payroll issues quickly. An ideal provider offers 24/7 support or adequate assistance during business hours.
- Technology and integration. Ensure the platform integrates seamlessly with existing HR, accounting, and ERP systems. A modern, intuitive user interface can streamline the payroll process.
- Costs. Understand the pricing structure and ensure there are no hidden fees. Compare costs against the range of services offered to evaluate overall value.
Before working with any of the aforementioned payroll outsourcing companies, weigh these considerations and find one that aligns with your operational needs and long-term goals.
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