Payroll apps compared – what’s the best mobile app for your business? UK guide

Updated on 7 August 2023

Small business owners in the UK have a lot of choices when it comes to payroll apps. And there are several reasons why you might want to consider using a mobile app for your payroll needs in addition to your desktop payroll software.

 
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First, it can be a convenient way to manage your payroll when you’re away from your office. Second, a mobile app can offer additional features and functionality that might not be available on your desktop software. Also, a mobile app can be a cost-effective way to manage payroll for a small business.

But which app is the best for your business? Here’s a look at some of the most popular options.

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How to choose the best mobile app for your payroll

There are a number of different payroll apps available in the UK, so it’s important to choose one that best meets the needs of your business. Here are some things to consider when selecting a payroll app for your small business:

  • Ease of use: Choose an app that is easy to navigate and use. The last thing you want is to be spending hours trying to figure out how to use the app.
  • Features: Make sure the app you choose offers all the features you need, such as the ability to track employee time, calculate taxes, and generate payslips.
  • Pricing: Payroll apps typically charge a monthly fee. Be sure to compare pricing before selecting an app.

By taking the time to choose the right payroll app for your small business, you can save yourself a lot of time and money in the long run.

What features to look for in a payroll phone app

When choosing a payroll app for your small business, there are a number of features you’ll want to look for. Here are some of the most important:

FeatureGood to know…
The ability to track employee timeThis is important for ensuring that employees are being paid for all the hours they’ve worked
Calculate taxesThe app should be able to calculate National Insurance and income tax
Generate payslipsThe app should be able to generate payslips that you can give to your employees

Additional features to look out for include:

  • The ability to sync data with other apps and software
  • The ability to create reports
  • The ability to track employee hours
  • The ability to calculate taxes
  • The ability to generate payslips
  • The ability to manage payroll for multiple businesses
  • A user-friendly interface

These are just a few of the features you’ll want to look for in a payroll app. Be sure to compare different apps before selecting one for your business.

Compatibility with your existing accounts and payroll software

When choosing a payroll app, it’s important to make sure that it’s compatible with your existing accounts and payroll software.

This will make it easier to transfer data between the two systems and avoid any potential errors.

How much does a payroll app cost?

Payroll apps typically charge a monthly fee, which can range from £5 to £20 per month. The exact cost will vary depending on the features and functionality of the app. Be sure to compare pricing before selecting an app for your business.

Are there any good free payroll mobile apps?

There are a few free payroll mobile apps available, but they typically have limited features. For small businesses that need more comprehensive payroll and HR solutions, it’s best to choose a paid app. Paid apps usually offer more features and integrations, which can save you time and money in the long run.

Best payroll apps for iPhone and Android

There are a number of good payroll apps available for iPhone and Android. Some of the best include:

1. Gusto

Gusto is a payroll app for iPhone that makes it easy to manage your employee’s payroll. With Gusto, you can add new employees, process paychecks, and file taxes easily and quickly.

2. Paychex Mobile

Paychex Mobile is a payroll app that allows you to manage your employee’s payroll and benefits from your iPhone. With Paychex Mobile, you can access your account information, view pay stubs, and file taxes.

3. QuickBooks Online Payroll

QuickBooks Online Payroll is a payroll app that allows you to manage your employee’s payroll and finances from your iPhone. With QuickBooks Online Payroll, you can create invoices, track expenses, and file taxes.

4. ADP Mobile Solutions

ADP Mobile Solutions is a payroll app that allows you to manage your employee’s payroll and benefits from your iPhone. With ADP Mobile Solutions, you can access your account information, view pay stubs, and file taxes.

5. Wagepoint

Wagepoint is a payroll app that allows you to manage your employee’s payroll and benefits from your iPhone. With Wagepoint, you can access your account information, view payslips, and file taxes.

Best payroll apps for UK small businesses

There are several useful payroll applications for small businesses in the United Kingdom. Some of the finest include:

1. FreeAgent

FreeAgent is an online accounting app that makes it easy to manage your finances and file your taxes. With FreeAgent, you can create invoices, track expenses, and view your profit and loss statements.

2. Paychex

Paychex is a leading provider of payroll and HR solutions for small businesses in the UK. With over 30 years of experience, they offer a wide range of services, including online payroll, direct deposit, and tax filings.

3. Intuit QuickBooks Payroll

QuickBooks is a popular accounting software for small businesses, and their payroll app is one of the best on the market. It offers online payroll, direct deposit, and tax filing, as well as employee self-service features.

4. ADP RUN Powered by ADP

ADP is a global leader in payroll and HR solutions, and their RUN Powered by ADP app is one of the most popular payroll apps on the market. ADP RUN Powered by ADP allows users to manage their payroll and HR needs from their mobile device, and it’s available for both Android and iOS devices.

5. Payroll4Free

Payroll4Free is a free online payroll service for small businesses in the UK. It offers all the basic features you need, including employee and employer self-service, direct deposit, time tracking, and PTO tracking. Payroll4Free is a great option for small businesses that want an affordable, easy-to-use payroll solution.

6. Wave Payroll

Wave is a popular accounting software for small businesses, and their payroll app is one of the best in the market. Wave Payroll is free to use, and it integrates with Wave’s accounting software. This makes it a great choice for small businesses that are already using Wave for their accounting needs.

7. Paylocity

Paylocity is a cloud-based payroll and human capital management software company. The company provides online payroll, benefits, and human resource management solutions to small and medium-sized businesses.

Installing the app – on company devices, or the employee’s personal phone?

It is best to install the app on company devices as this will allow employees to access their account information and view payslips more easily.

Additionally, it will provide employers with greater control over the app and its features. If employees are required to use their personal phones, they should be given clear instructions on how to install and use the app.

FAQ

What is a payroll app?

A payroll app is a mobile application that allows businesses to manage their employee’s payroll and benefits from their iPhone.

What are the best payroll apps for small businesses?

The best payroll apps for small businesses are Paychex, QuickBooks Online Payroll, ADP Mobile Solutions, and Wagepoint.

How do I install the payroll app on my company devices?

It is best to install the payroll app on your company devices as this will allow employees to access their account information and view payslips more easily. Additionally, it will provide employers with greater control over the app and its features. If employees are required to use their personal phones, they should be given clear instructions on how to install and use the app.

What is a payroll app used for?

A payroll app is used to manage employee’s payroll and benefits from your iPhone. With the payroll app, you can access your account information, view pay stubs, and file taxes.

What are some of the features offered by payroll apps?

Some of the features offered by payroll apps include employee and employer self-service, direct deposit, time tracking, and PTO tracking.

How do I set up direct deposit for my employees?

Most payroll apps will offer direct deposit as an option for employees. To set up direct deposit, you will need to provide the app with your bank account information and the account numbers for your employees. The app will then deposit the funds into your account and the accounts of your employees on payday.

How do I file taxes with a payroll app?

Most payroll apps will allow you to file your taxes electronically. To do this, you will need to provide the app with your tax information, such as your Social Security number and the tax bracket you are in. The app will then calculate your taxes and file them for you.

What are some of the advantages of using a payroll app?

Payroll apps offer a number of advantages, including convenience, accuracy, and flexibility. With a payroll app, you can manage your payroll and HR needs from your mobile device, which is convenient for busy business owners.

Reviewed by , Managing Director

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