If you are still doing payroll manually, without using a dedicated solution, now is definitely the time to invest in payroll software. From CRA compliance to employee satisfaction, having the right payroll system in place is mission-critical for Canadian businesses, especially SMBs juggling growth and regulation.
Without further ado, here are 10 standout payroll solutions adapted to the needs of Canadian companies.
1. Folks Payroll: Best for SMBs seeking an all-in-one HR + Payroll combo
Folks Payroll is the perfect add-on for companies already embracing the user-friendly, Canadian-built Folks HR platform. Fully compliant with Canadian and Quebec-specific payroll rules, it’s designed for growing businesses needing affordable, bilingual support. And yes, it plays nice with your existing tools!
Why it’s great:
- Seamless integration with HR functions, no double-entries needed.
- Designed for SMBs and specific industries such as construction, manufacturing, non-profits, and professional services.
- Easy to use even for first-time HRIS adopters.
- Automated payroll calculations that take into account deductions, taxes (based on provincial tax rates) and benefits.
- Bilingual French and English software.
2. Wagepoint: Best for small teams and startups
Born and bred in Canada, Wagepoint simplifies payroll, direct deposits, and ROEs. Their solutions focus on small businesses and are beloved by Canadian entrepreneurs.
Why it’s great:
- Compliance assistance features to stay compliant with Canadian payroll regulations.
- Time tracking integration to accurately record employee working hours.
- Customizable reports to track and analyze payroll data.
3. Ceridian Dayforce: Best for complex payroll and large enterprises
Ceridian Dayforce offers deep analytics, compliance automation, and global reach, but it comes with an enterprise-level price tag.
Why it’s great:
- On-demand pay to engage and retain hourly workers.
- Benefits administration to streamline employee benefits across the organization.
- Integrated with HR features for a unified system.
4. Payworks: Best for scalability and integration
Based in Winnipeg, Payworks has a solid reputation for reliable service and strong compliance tools tailored for Canadian laws.
Why it’s great:
- Multiple location management accessible through one secure login.
- Seamless integrations with various solutions.
- Year-end checklists to streamline payroll management.
5. Rise People: Best for employee benefits management
Rise offers HR, payroll, and benefits in one sleek Canadian platform to help you scale and simplify processes.
Why it’s great:
- Synchronized information if you use the benefits or HR platform.
- Canadian compliance ensured across all features.
- Simplifies the entire payroll process.
6. ADP Canada: Best for global companies
ADP has decades of experience and deep functionality for large, distributed teams. They are a solid choice if you need legal support on top of payroll features.
Why it’s great:
- Outsourcing with HR professionals if your payroll needs are complex.
- Focus on compliance and legislation to avoid issues and improve efficiency.
- Time and attendance solutions available.
7. QuickBooks Payroll: Best for accounting-led businesses
If you’re already on QuickBooks, their payroll add-on is a logical step, as it is easy to use and deeply integrated.
Why it’s great:
- Easy team access with a mobile app.
- Year-end forms and useful resources and tools.
- Bookkeeping features on top of payroll functionalities.
8. Knit People: Best for modern teams
Toronto-based Knit People targets tech-savvy teams that want modern UX, plus benefits administration baked in.
Why it’s great:
- Personalized one-on-one assistance available.
- Adherence to employment laws and all legislative requirements.
- Integrates with HR features.
9. Nethris: Best for Quebec-based companies
Fully bilingual and CRA/Revenu Québec-compliant, Nethris is known for servicing French-speaking companies with complex payroll needs.
Why it’s great:
- Payroll professionals to support you.
- Additional solutions can be integrated for more flexibility.
- Available on a mobile application.
10. Push Operations: Best for hospitality, retail, and shift-based industries
Push Operations is a Canadian platform that is especially beloved by restaurants, hotels, and other hourly-based businesses. It goes beyond payroll to include scheduling and time tracking, making it a one-stop shop for managing shift teams.
Why it’s great:
- Automates tip calculations, stat holiday pay, and overtime.
- Streamlines onboarding and employee self-service.
- Built-in compliance with Canadian standards.
How to Choose the Right Payroll Software for Your Business
Not all payroll systems are built the same and your perfect match depends on your size, industry, and team needs. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to choose the right solution for your business:
1. Audit your needs
Your business needs depend on your size, your industry and your budget. Here are some questions you need to ask yourself before starting your search for a payroll solution:
- How many employees does your organization have?
- How complex is your pay structure (e.g., hourly, salaried, unionized)?
- Do you need bilingual support (especially important in Quebec)?
2. Map your integrations
Chances are you already have technological tools implemented in your company. Unless you want to give up on existing solutions, you should take into consideration the platforms you already have in place and how they can integrate with the payroll system. Once again, keep these questions in mind:
- Do you already have an HRIS, time-tracking tool, or accounting platform?
- Choose a software solution that integrates cleanly with existing systems.
3. Understand compliance and local regulations
If your company is in Canada, you should make sure that your payroll provider handles Canadian tax filings, T4s, ROEs, and provincial requirements like CNESST and CCQ. The more Canadian-compliant the solution is, the better it will support your organization and its efficiency.
4. Prioritize user experience
Your final choice will also depend on your company demographics and the HR department you have (or not) in place. For instance:
- Can your HR team use the payroll solution with relative ease?
- Will your employees need extensive training to use the platform?
- Are employee self-service and mobile access available?
5. Evaluate scalability
While the current state of your business should be an essential aspect in your decision-making, you should also consider the future and potential organizational changes. Here are important considerations:
- Will this solution still work when you double your headcount?
- Can it handle new locations or remote teams?
- Is the pricing realistic in the long run?
6. Request demonstrations
Before implementing a payroll solution, you should see it in action. Most providers provide free demonstrations with detailed explanations of each feature.
Prepare questions in advance and involve the relevant actors in your decision-making process. The demonstration should let you test your real-life workflows to ensure it suits your daily needs.
7. Assess support and pricing
Even if the platform is user-friendly, you will need human help and effective support from time to time. Don’t hesitate to ask about support possibilities during demonstrations and be mindful of pricing vs. budget.
- Can you get live support when needed?
- Friendly tip: look for transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
You are now ready to choose a payroll software solution that will truly support your business efficiency and growth, on top of simplifying your HR department and employees’ daily lives! Before you go, did you know that Folks has recently launched a payroll management system that integrates with its comprehensive HR solutions? Feel free to request your demo to learn more!
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