Best Payroll Software in India

Best payroll software in India includes Keka, PocketHRM, WalletHR, HROne, Spine Payroll, and ZohoPay. Payroll management software helps to automate and simplify business HR payroll management for businesses, allowing for accurate salary calculations, tax planning , and compliance with regulatory requirements.

Pratiiek Mavani
Researched and Written by Pratiiek Mavani
|
Jainy Patel
Reviewed and Edited by Jainy Patel
Live Agent - Tejasvita Domadiya
Live Agent - Divyang Kansara
Live Agent - Manali Shah
Get Free Demo

No Cost Personal Advisor

Most Popular Payroll Software

This listing showcases software based on user recommendations and popularity. It also highlights products from our valued client partnerships.

SoftwareSuggest offers verified & unbiased user reviews based on user ratings and feedback. Our ratings and reports do not contain any paid placements. Learn more about our ranking methodology.

List of 545 Best Payroll Software

Showing 1 - 20 of 545 products
Customize your search: dropdown
Reset Filter
Sort by:

Always Designing for People

Product Description

This information is provided by vendor.

Running a small business can be challenging today. ADP’s got your back with faster, easier, more reliable Payroll and HR solutions designed to help you stay focused on what matters. Read More About RUN by ADP

RUN by ADP Is Tailored For

StartUps

SMBs

Mid-Market

Enterprises

Features

  • Mobile Access
  • Direct Deposit
  • Integration With Accounting Software
  • Payroll Processing
  • Benefits Administration
  • Compliance Management
  • Customer Support
  • Time And Attendance
  • View all Features
5.0
out of 5 (1 Review)
Features
5.0
Ease of Use
5.0
Value for Money
5.0
Customer Support
5.0
PRADEEP JINDAL- ITIL
IT Manager

RUN by ADP is the best platform I have used for a Payroll system for at least 5 -6 years. This is the best product as this is user-friendly and very good in support.

Read Review

Product Description

This information is provided by vendor.

Paylocity offers user-friendly payroll software designed to simplify operations and boost efficiency. With its intuitive tools, it seamlessly integrates into your workflow, making payroll management easier and more effective. Read More About Paylocity

Paylocity Is Tailored For

StartUps

SMBs

Mid-Market

Enterprises

Features

  • Learning Management
  • Manager Self Service
  • Document Management
  • Goal Setting
  • 360 Degree Feedback
  • Goal Setting / Tracking
  • Mobile Access
  • Onboarding
  • View all Features
4.7
out of 5 (6 Reviews)
Features
4.7
Ease of Use
4.7
Value for Money
4.5
Customer Support
4.7
Tarun Menon
Finance Manager

Paylocity has been a game-changer for our HR operations. Its intuitive interface and seamless integration capabilities have significantly streamlined our processes, saving us time and resources. The pros include its comprehensive suite of HR solutions, covering everything from recruitment to retirement planning, and its cloud-based platform, which offers flexibility and accessibility from anywhere.

Read all 6 Reviews
Enabled

Best payroll system to grow your business

Product Description

Paychex is a well-designed payroll management software that allows great flexibility in managing various HR-related tasks. It encompasses services like payroll and taxes, insurance, employee benefits, 401(k) retirement services, accounting and finance, and PEO. Read More About Paychex Flex

Paychex Flex Is Tailored For

StartUps

SMBs

Mid-Market

Enterprises

Features

  • Tax Filing Services
  • W 2 And 1099 Processing
  • Customizable Reporting
  • Hr Administration
  • Employee Financial Wellness
  • Compliance Management
  • Mobile App
  • Customer Support
  • View all Features
5.0
out of 5 (2 Reviews)
Features
5.0
Ease of Use
5.0
Value for Money
5.0
Customer Support
5.0
Siyabonga Ntshingila
Ta Associate

Paychex has transformed my work by simplifying payroll, streamlining HR tasks, and saving me valuable time. Highly recommend! Overall, a good investment.

Read all 2 Reviews

Category Champions | 2025

Product Description

This information is provided by vendor.

Online Human Resources Information System (HRIS) and the best employee onboarding software that makes time for the work you were meant to do. But change can be hard. BambooHR guarantees your success when changing from spreadsheets to our intuitive online HR software. Read More About BambooHR

BambooHR Is Tailored For

StartUps

SMBs

Mid-Market

Enterprises

Features

  • Applicant Tracking System (ats)
  • Benefits Administration
  • Customizable Dashboards
  • Job Posting
  • Reporting And Analytics
  • Custom Workflows
  • Goal Tracking
  • Employee Surveys
  • View all Features
4.5
out of 5 (53 Reviews)
Features
4.4
Ease of Use
4.5
Value for Money
4.4
Customer Support
4.5
Florio Msumba
HR Executive

BambooHR is an inclusive program that covers all human resource demands. The application considers all the allowances and payments for workers required. The suitable career development measures from the app allow employees to be effective and functional.

Read all 53 Reviews

BambooHR Features and Usability-Based User Satisfaction Score

Rating Score 9.0

Rating Score

Out of 10

Review Score 10.0

Review Score

Out of 10

Freshness Score 6.5

Freshness Score

Out of 10

Social Score 9.0

Social Score

Out of 10

Visitor Score 8.0

Visitor Score

Out of 10

Contenders | 2025

Product Description

This information is provided by vendor.

Multiplier provides a hassle-free platform that empowers companies to seamlessly operate and manage international payroll for their global workforce with utmost precision. Effortlessly onboard employees in any country within minutes, while efficiently overseeing the entire payroll process, ensuring compliance with labor laws, and effectively managing... Read More About Multiplier

Multiplier Is Tailored For

StartUps

SMBs

Mid-Market

Enterprises

Features

  • Customizable Pay Schedules
  • Payroll Analytics
  • Time And Attendance Tracking
  • Automated Payroll Processing
  • Document Management
  • Performance Management
  • Employee Self Service Portal
  • Integration With Accounting Software
  • View all Features

Hire Employees

$ 0

Per Month

Contractors

$ 40

Per Month

Employer of Record

$ 400

Per Month

4.5
out of 5 (4 Reviews)
Features
4.8
Ease of Use
4.0
Value for Money
4.8
Customer Support
4.3
islam. Pakistan
Manager

Our expert team quickly solves your queries. We provide the best solution for companies engaging with tens and hundreds of freelancers. You can easily onboard employees from anywhere. We have successfully onboarded employees in Vietnam and Indonesia without any hassle.

Read all 4 Reviews

Multiplier Features and Usability-Based User Satisfaction Score

Rating Score 9.0

Rating Score

Out of 10

Review Score 1.0

Review Score

Out of 10

Freshness Score 8.5

Freshness Score

Out of 10

Social Score 9.5

Social Score

Out of 10

Visitor Score 8.0

Visitor Score

Out of 10

Contenders | 2025

Product Description

This information is provided by vendor.

Papaya Global is a cloud-based payroll application software platform that manages global payroll and HR tasks. This software streamlines payroll processing for businesses operating internationally. It has features such as tax management, compliance reporting, and benefits administration for an efficient business workflow. Read More About Papaya Global

Papaya Global Is Tailored For

StartUps

SMBs

Mid-Market

Enterprises

Features

  • Mobile Access
  • Tax Filing
  • Expense Management
  • Data Security
  • Automated Payments
  • Audit Trail
  • Employee Self Service
  • Multi Currency Support
  • View all Features

Grow Global

$ 25

Employee/Month

Scale Global

$ 20

Employee/Month

Enterprise Global

$ 15

Employee/Month

4.7
out of 5 (3 Reviews)
Features
5.0
Ease of Use
4.3
Value for Money
4.3
Customer Support
4.7
CHRISTOPHER NGARI
Content Strategist & Writer

Papaya Global is an exceptional platform for global payroll, onboarding, and HR management. Its user-friendly interface simplifies complex international payroll processes, making it easy to manage employee records, payroll compliance, and benefits across multiple countries. The platform’s automated features reduce errors, streamline workflows, and ensure compliance with local regulations, which is invaluable for companies scaling internationally. The customer support team is knowledgeable and responsive, providing assistance when needed. With Papaya Global, managing a global workforce becomes a seamless process, saving time and reducing administrative hassles, making it an excellent choice for businesses expanding globally.

Read all 3 Reviews

Papaya Global Features and Usability-Based User Satisfaction Score

Rating Score 9.4

Rating Score

Out of 10

Review Score 1.0

Review Score

Out of 10

Freshness Score 8.5

Freshness Score

Out of 10

Social Score 10.0

Social Score

Out of 10

Visitor Score 8.0

Visitor Score

Out of 10

Global Payroll and Compliance

Product Description

This information is provided by vendor.

Build your remote team with Deel. Hire international employees and contractors compliantly around the world. Run payroll in hundreds of currencies with one click. Read More About Deel

Deel Is Tailored For

StartUps

SMBs

Mid-Market

Enterprises

Features

  • Time Tracking
  • Off Cycle Payments
  • Compliance Management
  • Global Payroll
  • Automated Payments
  • Customizable Invoices
  • Multi Currency Support
  • Customer Support
  • View all Features

Deel HR

$ 0

Per Month

Contractors

$ 49

Per Month

EOR

$ 599

Per Month

4.6
out of 5 (7 Reviews)
Features
4.6
Ease of Use
4.7
Value for Money
4.4
Customer Support
4.7
Muhammad Aimal
Student

Deel has been seamless, efficient, and hassle-free for contracts, payments, and compliance; highly recommended!

Read all 7 Reviews

Category Champions | 2025

Cloud Accounting Software Making Billing Painless

Product Description

This information is provided by vendor.

This bookkeeping software makes your accounting tasks easy, fast, and secure. Start sending invoices, tracking time, and capturing expenses in minutes. We uphold a longstanding tradition of providing extraordinary customer service and building a product that helps save you time because we know you went into business... Read More About FreshBooks

FreshBooks Is Tailored For

StartUps

SMBs

Mid-Market

Enterprises

Features

  • Proposals
  • Time Tracking
  • Client Portal
  • Invoicing
  • Client Management
  • Team Collaboration
  • Mobile App
  • Project Management
  • View all Features

Lite

$ 19

Per Month

Plus

$ 33

Per Month

Premium

$ 60

Per Month

4.6
out of 5 (56 Reviews)
Features
4.4
Ease of Use
4.5
Value for Money
4.4
Customer Support
4.5
Lincoln Tiburzi
Accountant

FreshBooks is ideal for controlling all financial transactions. The program has captured all accounts payable, and honoring all debts is done on time. We have fully managed to pay salaries and process payrolls using FreshBooks.

Read all 56 Reviews

FreshBooks Features and Usability-Based User Satisfaction Score

Rating Score 9.2

Rating Score

Out of 10

Review Score 10.0

Review Score

Out of 10

Freshness Score 6.5

Freshness Score

Out of 10

Social Score 9.0

Social Score

Out of 10

Visitor Score 8.0

Visitor Score

Out of 10

Contenders | 2025

Product Description

Oyster Payroll is a cloud-based platform for managing payroll and HR tasks. It is among the best payroll software in India, streamlining business payroll processing with tax management, compliance reporting, and employee self-service features. The platform specializes in managing payroll for remote workers and international... Read More About Oyster Payroll

Oyster Payroll Is Tailored For

StartUps

SMBs

Mid-Market

Enterprises

Features

  • Employee Document Management
  • Multi Currency Support
  • Onboarding And Offboarding
  • Customizable Pay Schedules
  • Employee Self Service Portal
  • Benefits Administration
  • Time And Attendance Tracking
  • Global Payroll Management
  • View all Features

Free

$ 0

For 30 days

Starter

$ 599

Per Month

3.0
out of 5 (1 Review)
Features
4.0
Ease of Use
3.0
Value for Money
5.0
Customer Support
4.0
KABITA DAS
Freelancer

Oyster Payroll is a worldwide business platform designed to enable visionary HR leaders to find, engage, pay, manage, develop, and handle a thriving distributed workforce. Oyster allows growing companies to provide valued global team members with a seamless experience without the usual headaches and costs.

Read Review

Oyster Payroll Features and Usability-Based User Satisfaction Score

Rating Score 6.0

Rating Score

Out of 10

Review Score 1.0

Review Score

Out of 10

Freshness Score 8.0

Freshness Score

Out of 10

Social Score 7.0

Social Score

Out of 10

Visitor Score 6.0

Visitor Score

Out of 10

Software by Rippling

Product Description

This information is provided by vendor.

Rippling is revolutionizing the industry with its cutting-edge software, seamlessly integrating HR, IT, and finance functions. Its innovative approach streamlines operations, driving efficiency and transforming how businesses manage their workforce and resources. Read More About Rippling

Rippling Is Tailored For

StartUps

SMBs

Mid-Market

Enterprises

Features

  • Audit Trail
  • Direct Deposit
  • Automated Payroll
  • Tax Filing
  • Employee Self Service
  • Off Cycle Payments
  • Pto Management
  • Garnishment Management
  • View all Features
4.5
out of 5 (2 Reviews)
Features
4.5
Ease of Use
4.5
Value for Money
4.5
Customer Support
4.5
Doug Clayton
Director

Rippling is a very intuitive and simple-to-use platform. It works with our fax platform seamlessly. Setting up a connection is easy. Great documentation, and the team is very responsive!

Read all 2 Reviews

Payroll and HR Solutions Designed for Leaders

Product Description

This information is provided by vendor.

Paycor, a Paychex company, offers HR software to modernize every aspect of people management from managing labor costs, scheduling, and performance reviews to recruiting, retention and learning. Paycor gives leaders the powerful analytics needed to build winning teams. Read More About Paycor

Paycor Is Tailored For

StartUps

SMBs

Mid-Market

Enterprises

Features

  • Expense Management
  • Mobile Access
  • Time And Attendance Tracking
  • Performance Management
  • Employee Scheduling
  • Employee Recognition
  • Document Management
  • Applicant Tracking System (ats)
  • View all Features

Basic

$ 99

Per Month

4.5
out of 5 (8 Reviews)
Features
4.0
Ease of Use
4.6
Value for Money
4.0
Customer Support
4.1
Daily Rush
Ceo

Paycor is a good option for businesses of all sizes that are looking for a comprehensive and easy-to-use HR and payroll platform. Paycor's pricing is also affordable, and the company offers excellent customer support.

Read all 8 Reviews

Software by OnPay, Inc

Product Description

OnPay is among the most powerful payroll software available in the market. It has been working for the last 30 years to help small business enterprises. It integrates with Xero, QuickBooks, etc. Read More About OnPay

OnPay Is Tailored For

StartUps

SMBs

Mid-Market

Enterprises

Features

  • Payroll Reporting
  • W 2 And 1099 Processing
  • Direct Deposit
  • Employee Onboarding
  • Mobile Access
  • Customizable Reports
  • Accounting Software Integration
  • Benefits Management
  • View all Features

Basic

$ 40

User/Month

4.6
out of 5 (5 Reviews)
Features
4.2
Ease of Use
4.8
Value for Money
4.6
Customer Support
4.6
Riaz Hussain
Ceo

It was a pleasurable experience to visit Onpay and to recommend it to others as well. It's as good as it should be to satisfy the visitors who use it.

Read all 5 Reviews

Keep your time and money

Product Description

This information is provided by vendor.

Patriot Payroll simplifies your payroll process, saving you time and reducing errors, so you can focus on growing your business. Read More About Patriot Payroll

Patriot Payroll Is Tailored For

StartUps

SMBs

Mid-Market

Enterprises

Features

  • W 2 And 1099 Forms
  • Customer Support
  • Customizable Deductions
  • Time And Attendance Tracking
  • Year End Processing
  • Employee Benefits Management
  • Multi State Payroll
  • Tax Filing Services
  • View all Features

Basic Payroll

$ 17

Per Month

Full Service Payroll

$ 37

Per Month

4.7
out of 5 (11 Reviews)
Features
4.8
Ease of Use
4.9
Value for Money
4.7
Customer Support
4.7
Ella
owner

Patriot has been an excellent decision because I can run payroll quickly and always receive stellar support when needed. I highly recommend it to everyone.

Read all 11 Reviews

Contenders | 2025

Product Description

This information is provided by vendor.

Remote is a payroll software that empowers companies to pay and manage full-time and contract workers all over the world. In 50+ countries, we handle international payroll, benefits, taxes, stock options, and compliance. Most importantly, Remote never charges percentages or fees: one modest flat price... Read More About Remote

Remote Is Tailored For

StartUps

SMBs

Mid-Market

Enterprises

Features

  • Document Management
  • Compensation Management
  • Reporting And Analytics
  • Employee Engagement
  • Performance Reviews
  • Leave Management
  • Task Management
  • Notifications And Alerts
  • View all Features

Employer of Record Services

$ 299

Employee/Month

Contractor Management Services

$ 0

Contractor/Month

4.7
out of 5 (7 Reviews)
Features
4.3
Ease of Use
4.1
Value for Money
4.6
Customer Support
4.6
Ayomide Jayeola
Senior Productivity Consultant

What impressed me the most about Remote was its seamless user experience and the way it effortlessly streamlined our team's remote collaboration. The intuitive interface made it incredibly easy to navigate through various features.

Read all 7 Reviews

Remote Features and Usability-Based User Satisfaction Score

Rating Score 9.4

Rating Score

Out of 10

Review Score 2.0

Review Score

Out of 10

Freshness Score 8.0

Freshness Score

Out of 10

Social Score 8.5

Social Score

Out of 10

Visitor Score 8.0

Visitor Score

Out of 10

Emergents | 2025

Product Description

This information is provided by vendor.

Firstbase.io makes starting and managing a business in the U.S. simple, especially for international founders. It takes care of everything—from company formation and compliance to opening a U.S. bank account and handling tax filings. With Firstbase.io, you can skip the paperwork and focus on growing... Read More About Firstbase Accounting

Firstbase Accounting Is Tailored For

StartUps

SMBs

Mid-Market

Enterprises

Features

  • Accounts Receivable
  • Payroll Integration
  • Customer Support
  • Tax Management
  • Fixed Asset Management
  • Financial Reporting
  • Cash Flow Management
  • Third Party Integrations
  • View all Features

Firstbase Accounting Features and Usability-Based User Satisfaction Score

Freshness Score 8.0

Freshness Score

Out of 10

Social Score 5.0

Social Score

Out of 10

Visitor Score 4.0

Visitor Score

Out of 10

Category Champions | 2025

Product Description

This information is provided by vendor.

Keka is a payroll software solution that simplifies HR-related tasks by automating the workflow for better and more accurate results. This software is further equipped with a modern applicant tracking system that empowers HR staff to acquire the right talent. Read More About Keka

Keka Is Tailored For

StartUps

SMBs

Mid-Market

Enterprises

Features

  • Expense Management
  • Exit Management
  • Asset Management
  • Custom Workflows
  • Employee Self Service
  • Timesheet Management
  • Leave Management
  • Employee Database Management
  • View all Features

Foundation

$ 139

Per Month

Get Offer

Strength

$ 181

Per Month

Get Offer

Growth

$ 222

Per Month

Get Offer
4.7
out of 5 (168 Reviews)
Features
4.7
Ease of Use
4.8
Value for Money
4.7
Customer Support
4.7
Sindhav Bhageerath
Marketing Coordinator

Keka is very user-friendly and easy to use, with simple navigation, and all the functionality makes it cool.

Read all 168 Reviews

Keka Features and Usability-Based User Satisfaction Score

Rating Score 9.4

Rating Score

Out of 10

Review Score 10.0

Review Score

Out of 10

Freshness Score 10.0

Freshness Score

Out of 10

Social Score 9.1

Social Score

Out of 10

Visitor Score 8.0

Visitor Score

Out of 10

Enabled

Category Champions | 2025

Product Description

This information is provided by vendor.

factoHR is an award-winning Best Payroll Platform trusted by 3,500 companies and 2.6 million employees, including Tata Steel BSL, DENSO, Cycle Agarbatti, BSE, Murugappa, and many others who have improved their productivity by more than 70%. Read More About factoHR

factoHR Is Tailored For

StartUps

SMBs

Mid-Market

Enterprises

Features

  • Compliance Management
  • Time Tracking
  • Task Management
  • Attendance Management
  • Payroll Management
  • Document Management
  • Hr Analytics
  • Performance Management
  • View all Features

Core

$ 69

Per Month

Get Offer

Premium

$ 83

Per Month

Get Offer

Ultimate

$ 97

Per Month

Get Offer
4.7
out of 5 (251 Reviews)
Features
4.7
Ease of Use
4.7
Value for Money
4.6
Customer Support
4.6
Urvashi
Admin

The interface is well-designed and user-friendly. It gives HR and employees the insights they need, and the dashboard makes it easy to see everything at a glance. Highly recommend it!

Read all 251 Reviews

factoHR Features and Usability-Based User Satisfaction Score

Rating Score 9.4

Rating Score

Out of 10

Review Score 10.0

Review Score

Out of 10

Freshness Score 10.0

Freshness Score

Out of 10

Social Score 9.1

Social Score

Out of 10

Visitor Score 8.0

Visitor Score

Out of 10

Enabled
Most Reviewed

Category Champions | 2025

Product Description

This information is provided by vendor.

This payroll software manages accurate payroll, compliances, and employee benefits in seconds. It is user-friendly and has a diverse range of useful features that enhance operational efficiency. Read More About Qandle

Qandle Is Tailored For

StartUps

SMBs

Mid-Market

Enterprises

Features

  • Leave Management
  • Employee Database
  • Onboarding
  • Performance Management
  • Task Management
  • Time Tracking
  • Payroll Management
  • Document Management
  • View all Features

Foundation

$ 1

Employee/Month

Get Offer

Regular

$ 1

Employee/Month

Get Offer

Plus

$ 1

Employee/Month

Get Offer

Premium

$ 2

Employee/Month

Get Offer
4.9
out of 5 (46 Reviews)
Features
4.6
Ease of Use
4.8
Value for Money
4.8
Customer Support
4.8
Smriti
HR associate

Great software and support. Robust and easy to use. Qandle is the one-stop solution for all HR needs. I strongly recommend Qandle. It’s worth the price.

Read all 46 Reviews

Qandle Features and Usability-Based User Satisfaction Score

Rating Score 9.8

Rating Score

Out of 10

Review Score 10.0

Review Score

Out of 10

Freshness Score 10.0

Freshness Score

Out of 10

Social Score 9.6

Social Score

Out of 10

Visitor Score 8.0

Visitor Score

Out of 10

Category Champions | 2025

Product Description

This information is provided by vendor.

Spine Payroll software is a very simple, flexible, user-friendly employee salary software. It takes care of all business requirements related to accounting and management of employees’ payroll. Read More About Spine Payroll

Spine Payroll Is Tailored For

StartUps

SMBs

Mid-Market

Enterprises

Features

  • Employee Self Service
  • Expense Management
  • Customizable Templates
  • Employee Management
  • Helpdesk Support
  • Integration Capabilities
  • Reports And Analytics
  • Security And Data Protection
  • View all Features
4.6
out of 5 (47 Reviews)
Features
4.6
Ease of Use
4.6
Value for Money
4.6
Customer Support
4.6
Dinesh Shelar
Manager Finance

Spine Payroll reduced manual intervention in processing monthly salaries and employee tax calculations.

Read all 47 Reviews

Spine Payroll Features and Usability-Based User Satisfaction Score

Rating Score 9.2

Rating Score

Out of 10

Review Score 10.0

Review Score

Out of 10

Freshness Score 9.5

Freshness Score

Out of 10

Social Score 8.7

Social Score

Out of 10

Visitor Score 8.0

Visitor Score

Out of 10

Category Champions | 2025

Product Description

This information is provided by vendor.

HR-one is a complete end-to-end payroll solution for small and medium-sized enterprises. It incorporates over 12 modules, including attendance, onboarding, payroll, expenses, recruitment, timesheets, training, and reports. Read More About HROne

HROne Is Tailored For

StartUps

SMBs

Mid-Market

Enterprises

Features

  • Payroll Management
  • Employee Engagement
  • Shift Management
  • Compliance Management
  • Recruitment Management
  • Employee Database
  • Attendance Management
  • Document Management
  • View all Features

Basic

$ 1

User/Month

Get Offer

Professional

$ 2

User/Month

Get Offer
4.7
out of 5 (39 Reviews)
Features
4.5
Ease of Use
4.7
Value for Money
4.6
Customer Support
4.7
Abhay Kumar Verma
Cybersecurity Analyst

HROne is one of the best HCM software I have used. The UI is clean, simple, and easy to use. It supports everything like community, letters, attendance, performance review, etc. If you are looking for HCM, it's a must-use one.

Read all 39 Reviews

HROne Features and Usability-Based User Satisfaction Score

Rating Score 9.4

Rating Score

Out of 10

Review Score 8.0

Review Score

Out of 10

Freshness Score 9.5

Freshness Score

Out of 10

Social Score 9.2

Social Score

Out of 10

Visitor Score 8.0

Visitor Score

Out of 10

Payroll Software Guide

As businesses grow, managing payroll becomes a complex and time-consuming task. Payroll software can streamline this process, automate calculations, and ensure compliance with tax laws and regulations. Choosing the right payroll system software can be overwhelming with so many available options.

This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the key features and considerations to help you make an informed decision that meets your business needs. This guide will help you choose the finest payroll software system for your business, whether you're a small business owner or a payroll administrator.

What Is Payroll Software?

Payroll software is a digital tool designed to automate and streamline the entire payroll process for businesses. It simplifies the calculation of wages, deductions, bonuses, and taxes, ensuring accurate and timely payments to employees. By managing all payroll-related tasks in one place, payroll software solutions eliminate the need for manual calculations and paperwork, reducing the likelihood of human error. 

This software is typically used by HR departments and accountants to ensure that employees are paid correctly, on time, and in accordance with applicable labor laws. The primary function of the best online payroll software is to calculate employee salaries based on their hours worked, deductions, benefits, and applicable taxes. 

What Are the Benefits of Payroll Software?

Payroll software brings numerous advantages to businesses by streamlining payroll processing. With features like faster, more accurate calculations, reduced manual errors, and automatic tax updates, it simplifies payroll tasks.

  • Ensures Compliance With Tax, Filing, and Withholding: Payroll management software solution helps businesses stay updated with ever-changing tax laws and labor regulations. It automates compliance-related tasks like TDS deductions, PF contributions, and ESI filings. 

  • Helps Avoid Penalties And Fees: Missed deadlines or incorrect tax deductions can lead to hefty fines. Payroll tools send automated reminders for filings and ensure all payments are accurate and timely.

  • Streamlines Payroll and HR Processes: Modern payroll solutions integrate HR and accounting features for end-to-end automation. From onboarding to full and final settlements, payroll management processes are centralized in one system.

  • Enhances Data Security: Payroll software stores sensitive employee and financial data on encrypted, access-controlled systems. Unlike spreadsheets, these tools have layered security, like multi-factor authentication and role-based access. This ensures only authorized personnel can view or edit critical data.

  • Supports Cloud-Based Payroll Record Retention: With cloud-based systems, payroll records are automatically stored and backed up on secure servers. This eliminates the risk of data loss due to hardware failure or accidental deletion. You can access historical payroll reports anytime from any device.

  • Organized Record Keeping: The best payroll software automatically organizes pay slips, tax forms, attendance logs, and leave records under one dashboard. It reduces clutter and ensures every document is easily retrievable when needed. This is especially helpful during tax season, audits, or employee exit processes.

  • Eliminates Miscalculations: Manual payroll calculations often lead to errors, causing underpayments, overpayments, or missed deductions. Payroll software uses pre-set formulas to calculate everything with pinpoint accuracy. Whether it’s gross salary, bonuses, or compliance deductions, it all happens automatically. 

  • Centralizes Payroll Information: Instead of juggling multiple spreadsheets or emails, the best employee payroll software brings everything under one roof. Employee profiles, payment history, attendance data, and tax details are all stored in a unified platform.

  • Provides Easy Access To Employee Details: Most payroll platforms offer self-service portals where employees can view their pay slips, leave balances, and tax info. This reduces dependency on HR for routine queries and enhances transparency. It also improves employee satisfaction.

  • Tracks Payroll Expenses: Payroll tools track every rupee spent on employee compensation and generate reports in real time. This helps companies monitor their payroll costs and forecast future expenses better. It’s also useful for budgeting and strategic decision-making.

  • Improves Visibility Of Recurring Payroll Costs: Recurring costs like salaries, bonuses, allowances, and statutory dues are automatically captured by payroll software. This offers business owners a monthly or yearly snapshot of payroll liabilities. 

What Features Should You Look for in Payroll Software?

When selecting the top payroll software, prioritize features like automated payroll calculations, tax filing, direct deposit, and compliance management. Additional benefits include integration with accounting systems, employee self-service portals, and customizable reporting. Let’s explore the features of payroll software in-depth.

  1. Automated Salary Calculations And Deductions

This feature ensures that employee salaries are calculated accurately, factoring in basic pay, bonuses, overtime, and deductions like PF or TDS. It reduces the manual workload for HR and avoids calculation mistakes. With automated payroll, paydays become hassle-free and timely. It’s the foundation of any reliable payroll system software.

  1. Tax Filing, TDS, And Compliance Reporting Tools

Good payroll software comes equipped with automated tax filing and payroll compliance modules. It calculates TDS, generates Form 16, and stays updated with statutory laws. This helps businesses avoid legal issues and ensures timely submissions. It brings peace of mind during audit seasons.

  1. Attendance And Leave Tracking Integration

When integrated with attendance systems, payroll software pulls real-time data on working hours, late marks, and leaves. This means salaries are adjusted automatically based on attendance. It eliminates manual cross-checking and improves accuracy. It also boosts productivity for HR teams.

You May Also Read: Top Integrated HR and Payroll Software

  1. Direct Deposit And Payment Automation

Payroll software can directly deposit salaries into employees' bank accounts through automated bank integrations. It eliminates the need for cheques or manual transfers. Employees receive payments on time, and HR saves hours of processing time. This leads to a smoother payday experience.

  1. Employee Self-Service Portals (ESS)

ESS portals let employees access their pay slips, tax details, and leave balances anytime. It empowers staff and reduces the number of requests HR needs to handle. ESS adds transparency and boosts employee satisfaction. It also promotes a paperless work environment.

  1. Integration With Accounting And HR Software

Seamless integration with tools like Tally, QuickBooks, or HRMS makes your payroll ecosystem more efficient. It syncs payroll data with accounts and leaves no room for duplicate entries. This reduces reconciliation errors and enhances reporting accuracy. Your finance and HR teams stay aligned.

  1. Multi-Country Support

If you operate across borders, look for software with multi-country compliance and currency support. It manages region-specific tax rules and salary structures efficiently. This ensures smooth payroll processing for global teams. It’s a must-have for multinational organizations.

What Are the Deployment Options for Payroll Software?

Payroll software can be deployed either on-premise or in the cloud. Cloud-based solutions offer flexibility, remote access, and automatic updates, while on-premise systems provide more control and security over your data.

  1. Public Cloud-Based Deployment

Cloud-based payroll systems offer flexibility, data security, and access from anywhere. They require no physical infrastructure and are ideal for remote teams or businesses with multiple locations. Updates and backups are handled automatically. It’s cost-effective and scalable for growing companies.

  1. Onsite Deployment

On-site deployment means installing the software on your servers. It offers complete control over data and security settings. This option suits large enterprises with strict IT policies or high customization needs. However, it often requires more upfront investment and IT support.

What Are the Licensing Options Available?

When exploring payroll software, understanding the available licensing options is crucial. These options can vary in terms of payment structure, support, and scalability, affecting both short-term costs and long-term flexibility for your business.

  • Free Licenses: Some vendors offer free payroll tools with basic features, ideal for small businesses or startups. While they cover essentials like salary slips and tax calculation, they may lack advanced features or support.  Best Payroll software for small businesses includes free plans so that businesses can try it before upgrading.

  • Subscription-Based Models: This is the most common model, where you pay monthly or annually based on the number of employees or features used. It offers scalability and ongoing updates from the vendor. You get access to customer support and regular feature upgrades. It’s great for businesses that prefer flexibility.

  • Open-Source Payroll Software: Open-source tools allow full customization and control over the payroll process. Businesses can tweak the software to meet specific compliance needs. However, they require in-house technical expertise to maintain. 

What Are the Common Pricing Models for Payroll Software?

Payroll software typically follows pricing models like subscription-based (monthly or annual fees), pay-per-employee, or one-time licenses. Subscription models are common for ongoing support and updates, while pay-per-employee is ideal for businesses with varying workforce sizes. One-time licenses offer long-term use with no recurring costs.

  1. Monthly Fee Combined With Per Employee Per Month

This pricing model combines a flat monthly fee with a per-employee charge, making it scalable as your team grows. It ensures you pay based on actual usage, which is fair and predictable. It’s ideal for small to mid-sized companies looking for flexibility. This model suits businesses with seasonal or fluctuating workforce sizes.

  1. Monthly Renewal Models

With this model, you pay a fixed monthly fee regardless of the number of users or employees. It offers budget clarity and is easy to manage without surprises. Companies can cancel or upgrade at the end of any billing cycle. It’s perfect for startups and businesses with consistent headcounts.

How to Choose the Right Payroll Software?

Choosing the right payroll software involves assessing your business's specific needs, budget, and scalability. Consider factors like the number of employees, required features, ease of use, and integration with other systems to ensure the software aligns with your long-term goals.

  • Analyze Payroll Requirements: Start by listing what your company truly needs — salary management, tax filings, leave tracking, etc. Consider your team size, industry regulations, and payment structures. Knowing your pain points helps narrow down suitable software. A focused approach leads to a better investment.

  • Consider Scalability for Future Growth: Choose payroll software that can handle growth in staff size or multi-location operations. What works for a team of 10 might not work for 100 later. Scalable systems grow with your business without requiring frequent upgrades. It saves time and money in the long run.

  • Integration With Existing HR and Financial Systems: Ensure the payroll software integrates smoothly with your current accounting or HR tools. This reduces manual data entry and prevents errors between systems. Seamless integrations improve workflow and data accuracy. It’s key for building a connected backend.

  • Secure User Login: Security is non-negotiable when dealing with salary and tax data. Look for features like encrypted logins, two-factor authentication, and role-based access. These measures prevent unauthorized access and protect employee confidentiality. Strong login systems build trust.

  • Quick Feature Access & Intuitive Design: A good payroll tool should be easy to use, with a clean dashboard and minimal training required. HR staff should be able to access features without digging through menus. An intuitive interface saves time and improves user satisfaction. It’s especially helpful for non-tech teams.

  • Look for Transparent Pricing: Always check if the vendor lists pricing tiers and what each includes. Avoid hidden charges for things like tax compliance or customer support. Transparent pricing helps you budget accurately. It also reflects the vendor’s reliability and honesty.

  • Availability of Free Trials or Demos: Before committing, always ask for a free trial or a demo to test usability. This gives you a feel for how well the software fits your needs. A trial can reveal both strengths and deal-breakers. It’s the best way to avoid buyer’s remorse.

  • Multiple Communication Channels: Look for payroll providers who offer support via phone, chat, and email. Multi-channel support ensures you’re never stuck during payroll crunch time. It also shows that the provider values customer satisfaction. Quick, accessible help can make or break your experience.

  • User Reviews & Testimonials: Always read reviews from other users in your industry or company size. These insights reveal real-world pros and cons that product pages don’t mention. Look for feedback on ease of use, support, and reliability. Peer validation adds confidence to your choice.

Selecting the best payroll management system in India is a crucial step for businesses aiming to streamline their payroll processes and ensure compliance with complex tax and labor laws. By automating payroll tasks, improving accuracy, and maintaining secure data, the right software can significantly reduce administrative burdens and mitigate the risk of errors.

Whether you're a small startup or a large organization, investing in a payroll solution that aligns with your specific needs can enhance operational efficiency, improve employee satisfaction, and safeguard your business from compliance-related penalties.

Related Articles

FAQs

What is the average cost of payroll software?

The average cost of payroll software is around $10 to $30 per employee per month.

Why Do Small Businesses Need Payroll Software?

Small Businesses are everywhere, and the competition is higher than ever due to start-ups emerging daily. One way to retain your position in the market is to hire and retain the most talented employees. And to do that, you need to pay attention to every small detail that keeps your employees satisfied.

Small businesses need payroll due to the following reason:
  1. No Technical Expertise is Needed
  2. Saves a Lot of Time:
  3. Customizable Enough to Fit Small Business Needs
Compare 3 Products:
Compare Now
Remove All

Last Updated: May 12, 2025