Gusto Solo
Best all-in-one payroll software for businesses with one employee
Overview
Gusto is the best all-in-one payroll platform for businesses with a single employee, thanks to its automated tax filing, benefits options, and simple pricing. Everything—from S corp compliance to direct deposit to year-end forms—is included in a single intuitive platform designed for non-experts. Gusto removes the complexity of payroll compliance, making it easy for solopreneurs, first-time employers, and very small teams to run accurate payroll without needing additional tools or training.
Key Features
Full-service payroll with federal, state, and local tax filing
Automated W-2 and 1099s
Direct deposit and digital pay stubs
Hiring and onboarding checklists for expanding teams
Integrations with major accounting platforms (QuickBooks, Xero, FreshBooks)
Contractors payments and 1099 filing
Compliance alerts and automated updates
Sophisticated S corp compliance tools like a reasonable salary calculator, AI-powered S corp advisory, and end-to-end S corp election
Pros and Cons
Pros
Fully automated payroll and tax filing
Designed specifically for very small teams and first-time employers
Transparent, predictable pricing
Strong HR and onboarding tools included
Integrates easily with popular accounting and time-tracking systems
Access to benefits administration, contractor payment, invoicing and bill pay
Cons
HR features require higher-tier plans
Not ideal for businesses needing extensive industry-specific customizations
Limited support for complex multi-state compliance on the lowest plan
Pricing
For solopreneurs needing payroll, S corp compliance support, and the option to pay contractors. Pricing starts at $49 + $6 per person.
Transform your payroll processes with Gusto, a platform that’s already the choice of over 400,000 businesses.
QuickBooks Payroll
Best for seamless integration with QuickBooks accounting and payroll
Overview
QuickBooks Payroll is a powerful choice for micro-businesses running payroll for a single employee while already using the QuickBooks platform. It automates tax calculations and filings, offers next- or same-day direct deposit, and provides an intuitive dashboard that fits naturally with QuickBooks Online accounting. That tight integration saves time and reduces manual reconciliation.
Key Features
Full-service payroll (automated tax filing, deposits, year-end forms)
Next-day or same-day direct deposit (depending on plan)
Auto Payroll to schedule and approve paychecks
Employee self-service via the QuickBooks Workforce app
Detailed payroll reports (labor cost, tax deductions, bank transactions)
Integration with QuickBooks Time for time-tracking (hourly employees)
Benefits administration (401(k), workers’ comp, health) via partners
People Managing People
Tax penalty protection (QuickBooks covers certain penalties)
Pros and Cons
Pros
Highly integrated with QuickBooks Online accounting — simplifies bookkeeping
Strong automation for tax calculation, filing, and payments
Flexible direct deposit timing
Robust reporting and insights
Cons
Pricing adds up per employee, which can be less predictable even for one employee (especially as business grows)
Some advanced features (like full HR support) only in higher-tier plans
Same-day deposit eligibility requirements and potential delays
Additional state tax filing fees beyond one state, unless on the top plan
Pricing
Payroll Core: $15 /mo + $6.50 per employee/month
Payroll Premium: $26.40 /mo + $10 per employee/month
Note: Additional “state tax filing” costs apply for more than one state on lower plans.
Patriot Payroll
Best budget-friendly payroll for one employee
Overview
Patriot Payroll is one of the most affordable full-service payroll options for businesses with a single employee. Designed specifically for micro-businesses, it offers easy setup, straightforward tax filing, and an intuitive interface that makes payroll tasks simple even for first-time employers. Its transparent pricing and low monthly cost make it especially attractive for cost-conscious business owners looking for reliable compliance tools.
Key Features
Full-service payroll with automatic tax filing
Direct deposit and printable checks
Employee pay history and reports
Integrated time-tracking add-on
Electronic W-2s and 1099s
Self-service employee portal
Option for accounting integration through Patriot’s accounting software
Standard or enhanced HR add-ons for growing teams
Pros and Cons
Pros
One of the most affordable full-service payroll options
Simple setup for very small businesses
Helpful customer support
Optional HR and time-tracking add-ons
Cons
Fewer integrations than competitors
Limited advanced HR features
No same-day direct deposit
Interface is clean but less modern than higher-priced tools
Pricing
Basic Payroll: Low monthly base price + low per-employee fee
Full-Service Payroll: Affordable monthly base price + per-employee fee (includes tax filing)
Optional add-ons: time tracking, HR tools, accounting
Wave Payroll
Best ultra-affordable payroll for businesses using Wave Accounting
Overview
Wave Payroll is an excellent option for micro-businesses running payroll for a single employee, especially if you already use Wave’s free accounting tools. Its simple interface, unlimited payroll runs, and low pricing model make it easy to stay compliant without the cost or complexity of enterprise-level software. It’s ideal for very small teams that want full-service payroll at an accessible price.
Key Features
Full-service payroll with automated federal and state tax filings
Unlimited payroll runs each month
Direct deposit for employees and contractors
Employee self-service portal for paystubs and tax forms
Seamless integration with Wave Accounting
Year-end W-2 and 1099 support
Payroll expense reporting and basic analytics
Simple setup and clean, easy-to-navigate interface
Pros and Cons
Pros
Very cost-effective for single-employee payroll
Integrates directly with Wave’s free accounting suite
Unlimited payroll runs without added fees
Straightforward, beginner-friendly design
Cons
Limited advanced HR or time-tracking tools
Fewer integrations compared to larger payroll platforms
Not ideal for multi-state or more complex compliance needs
Reporting tools are more basic than competitors
Pricing
Full-Service Payroll: Monthly base price + per-employee fee
Self-Service Payroll (available in select states): Lower monthly base price + per-employee fee
Add-ons available for accounting and additional features
Square Payroll
Best for paying hourly or part-time workers alongside one employee
Overview
Square Payroll is a strong fit for micro-businesses that employ a single worker but may also rely on contractors or hourly help. It offers simple flat-rate pricing, built-in time tracking, and seamless integration with Square POS—making it especially useful for retail, food service, home services, and other shift-based businesses. Its intuitive setup and mobile-friendly tools make payroll easy even for first-time employers.
Key Features
Full-service payroll with automatic tax filing
Built-in time tracking and tip importing (via Square POS)
Direct deposit and Cash App options
Unlimited payroll runs
Employee and contractor payments
Mobile app for employers and employees
Automatic year-end W-2 and 1099 generation
Integration with Square POS and invoicing tools
Pros and Cons
Pros
Simple, predictable pricing well-suited to very small teams
Best-in-class for businesses already using Square POS
Built-in time tracking simplifies hourly payroll
Strong mobile tools for both employers and employees
Cons
Limited HR and benefits tools compared to all-in-one platforms
Best functionality tied to Square’s ecosystem
Advanced reporting and customization are minimal
Not ideal for complex multi-state compliance
Pricing
Monthly base price + per-employee fee
Contractor-only plan with per-contractor pricing
Optional add-ons for time tracking and Square ecosystem tools
ADP Run
Best for businesses that want strong compliance and long-term scalability
Overview
ADP Run is a robust payroll and HR solution built for small businesses that may start with just one employee but expect to grow. It delivers powerful compliance tools, automated tax filing, and access to HR resources that many micro-business platforms don’t offer. ADP’s long-standing reputation and extensive feature set make it a safe, scalable choice for owners who want professional-grade payroll from day one.
Key Features
Full-service payroll with automated tax filing
Direct deposit and paper check options
Employee self-service access
New-hire onboarding tools
Compliance alerts and document management
Benefits administration options
HR guidance and add-on advisory services
Integrations with popular accounting software
Pros and Cons
Pros
Strong compliance tools for regulated or growing businesses
Scales easily as you add employees
Extensive HR features and optional advisory support
Trusted provider with nationwide coverage
Cons
Pricing is quote-based and can be more expensive than competitors
Some features require higher-tier plans
Interface can feel complex for first-time employers
Fewer built-in integrations without add-ons
Pricing
Quote-based pricing depending on business size and feature needs
Tiered packages with increasing HR tools and support
Add-ons for benefits administration and HR advisory services
Paychex Flex
Best for businesses needing hands-on support and flexible service options
Overview
Paychex Flex is a versatile payroll platform ideal for small businesses running payroll for a single employee but wanting the option of live support and personalized service. With strong tax compliance tools, HR features, and optional dedicated payroll specialists, Paychex offers a more guided experience than many competitors. It’s a great fit for owners who prefer expert-backed payroll rather than a purely self-service system.
Key Features
Full-service payroll with automatic tax filing
Direct deposit and paper check options
Employee self-service portal
Time and attendance tools
HR library and compliance resources
Benefits administration options
Garnishment payment services
Dedicated payroll specialist available with higher-tier plans
Pros and Cons
Pros
Strong customer support and optional dedicated specialist
Scalable for future growth beyond one employee
Comprehensive HR and compliance tools
Flexible service levels for different business needs
Cons
Pricing is not transparent and requires a quote
More expensive than many micro-business options
Interface can feel dated compared to newer platforms
Some HR tools locked behind higher-tier plans
Pricing
Quote-based pricing depending on features and business size
Multiple plan tiers with varying HR and support options
Add-ons available for benefits, time tracking, and compliance services
OnPay
Best for simple, accurate payroll with excellent customer support
Overview
OnPay is a streamlined, full-service payroll platform designed for small businesses that need accuracy, affordability, and responsive support. It works exceptionally well for companies running payroll for a single employee thanks to its flat pricing, clear interface, and robust tax-handling features. OnPay also includes light HR tools, making it a great middle-ground between budget payroll services and more comprehensive HR platforms.
Key Features
Full-service payroll with automatic tax payments and filings
Flat-rate pricing with no hidden fees
Direct deposit and printable checks
Employee self-service and onboarding tools
PTO management and basic scheduling
Benefits administration (health, dental, 401(k))
Integrations with accounting software (QuickBooks, Xero, FreshBooks)
Dedicated customer support from U.S.-based payroll specialists
Pros and Cons
Pros
Clear, flat-rate pricing ideal for small teams
Very strong customer support and onboarding help
Includes basic HR tools at no extra cost
Easy, intuitive interface suitable for first-time employers
Cons
Fewer advanced HR features than all-in-one systems
Not ideal for highly complex multi-state compliance
Limited customization for unique payroll setups
Mobile functionality is improving but not as robust as competitors
Pricing
Flat monthly base price + per-employee fee
No contract required
Optional add-ons for benefits administration
Compare All
| Pricing | Free Trial | Free Plan | Best Use Case | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Simple $49/mo + $6/user/mo; Plus $80/mo + $12/user/mo; Premium custom pricing | Solopreneurs who want all-in-one payroll, tax filing, and S-corp support | ||
 | $45–$125/mo + per employee | Not listed | One-employee businesses already using QuickBooks accounting | |
 | $17–$37/mo + per employee | (30 days) | Cost-conscious solopreneurs who want budget-friendly payroll with optional tax filing | |
 | $35/month base fee + $6/employee/month | Micro-businesses already using Wave's free accounting tools who want ultra-affordable payroll | ||
 | $35/mo + $6/employee | Hourly or POS-based one-employee businesses already using Square ecosystem | ||
 | Custom pricing | (select plans) | One-employee businesses planning to scale and wanting enterprise-backed payroll with strong compliance | |
 | $39/mo + $5/employee; higher tiers are custom-priced. | Businesses needing hands-on support, dedicated payroll specialists, and flexible service options | ||
 | $49/mo + $6/employee | (1 month) | Single-employee businesses that want flat, predictable pricing with excellent customer support |
| Pricing | Free Trial | |
|---|---|---|
| Simple $49/mo + $6/user/mo; Plus $80/mo + $12/user/mo; Premium custom pricing | |
| $45–$125/mo + per employee | Not listed |
| $17–$37/mo + per employee | (30 days) |
| $35/month base fee + $6/employee/month | |
| $35/mo + $6/employee | |
| Custom pricing | (select plans) |
| $39/mo + $5/employee; higher tiers are custom-priced. | |
| $49/mo + $6/employee | (1 month) |
FAQ
How do I do payroll for one employee?
To run payroll for one employee, you’ll need to collect a W-4 form, set up federal and state tax accounts, track hours or salary details, calculate withholdings, submit tax payments, and file required forms. Payroll software automates these steps by calculating taxes, generating pay stubs, submitting payments, and handling year-end filings.
Do I need payroll software for one employee?
Payroll software isn’t legally required, but it can save significant time and reduce compliance errors. Even with one employee, you must withhold and remit taxes, file quarterly reports, and issue W-2s. Payroll software automates these processes, making it easier for first-time or busy business owners to stay compliant.
What is the best payroll service for one employee?
The best payroll service depends on your needs. Gusto is the strongest all-in-one option, offering automation, HR tools, and transparent pricing. QuickBooks Payroll works well for business owners already using QuickBooks. Square Payroll is ideal for hourly or POS-based businesses, while Patriot and Wave offer budget-friendly solutions.
How much does QuickBooks Payroll cost for one employee?
QuickBooks Payroll charges a monthly base fee plus a per-employee cost. While prices vary by promotion or plan level, business owners typically pay a base subscription plus a small additional fee for one employee. Higher-tier plans add same-day deposit and HR features.
How much does Gusto cost for one employee?
Gusto charges a monthly base price plus a per-employee fee. You'll pay one flat rate for the platform and an additional amount for your single employee. Higher-tier plans include added benefits such as time tracking and advanced HR tools.
