Payroll is one of the many costs of doing business for those that have employees. This expense typically varies depending on the payroll method, the size of your business and where it operates. Accuracy is also important because government agencies may impose costly fines on employers who make mistakes or miss deadlines.

How much do payroll services cost?

Different payroll providers offer different pricing structures, but most have per-payroll processing or per-employee fees. There may also be annual or monthly base costs for additional services, like year-end Forms T4, T4A, R1, and R2 preparation and delivery.

Common factors that affect payroll cost

Payroll is not a one size fits all service. Various aspects will determine total cost, such as:

  • Payroll frequency
  • Total number of employees
  • The types of services needed
  • How often payees are added or removed
  • The number of provinces where people are employed

Additional payroll service fees

A payroll provider’s price structure may not always include everything you need to run payroll from start to finish. Services that sometimes incur separate fees include:

  • Direct deposit
  • Automatic cheque signing
  • Pay cheque printing and delivery
  • Tax filing
  • Year-end processing (Forms T4, T4A, R1, R2, etc.)

Add-ons can drastically increase payroll expenses, so employers may want to confirm what services are included in the package before making a commitment with a provider.

Cost of payroll services for small businesses

Small businesses today have realistic, affordable ways to deliver a world-class payroll outcome. Their options are to do it themselves, purchase payroll software or outsource payroll to a full-service provider. Whichever of these methods is chosen, along with the size of the workforce and the specific services needed, will largely determine the total cost.

Do-it-yourself payroll

DIY is the cheapest payroll option and one that some businesses choose in their early stages. With this approach, expenses typically depend on how employees are paid. Banks, for instance, charge fees for direct deposit and cheques come with the cost of paper, printing and delivery.

There is one caveat, however, for small business owners who calculate payroll on their own. It’s time-consuming and errors are expensive, especially if it becomes necessary to hire a tax attorney.

Payroll outsourcing cost

Comprehensive or managed payroll costs more than DIY payroll, but it could actually save money in the long-term because it limits the risk of tax penalties. The total expense usually hinges on the individual provider’s price per employee or processing, as well as any base fees they may charge.

Partnering with an HR and payroll provider

In addition to cost, employers should consider the value of the time they’ll get back by partnering with an HR and payroll provider. Alleviating administrative burdens usually allows them to focus on growing their business and improving their profit margins. For this reason, employers may want to automate or outsource payroll as soon as they have the budget to do so.

Frequently asked questions about payroll cost

How much is ADP payroll?

ADP offers solutions for all types of payroll from the simple to the complex. We’ll work with employers to determine the individual setup that’s right for their business and fits their budget.

How much does it cost to use a payroll company?

No two payroll companies are the same. That’s why when weighing costs, it’s essential for employers to consider the overall value they’ll receive from the provider. Pay particular attention to customer support and how well the software integrates with other products.

How much does it cost to have someone do your payroll?

Having someone, such as an accountant, process payroll can be expensive because the calculations are time-consuming and many CPAs charge by the hour. Hiring a professional on staff may not be any cheaper either. Employers will have to pay a salary, benefits and the related payroll taxes on that person’s income.

How do you calculate payroll costs?

To calculate payroll costs, employers generally need to total these expenses:

  • Payroll service provider fees
  • Employee wages
  • Employer payroll taxes
  • Employment Insurance
  • Worker’s compensation premiums
  • Pay cheque printing and delivery
  • Direct deposit

Note that not all of these costs may apply, depending on how payroll is processed.

How much does online payroll cost?

Online payroll services usually charge by the number of employees per payroll processing. Add-on services can be purchased as necessary for a monthly or annual base fee.

How much does payroll cost per employee?

Payroll costs per employee will vary depending on your business size and individual needs. The two most common payment models are per employee per processing (PEPP) and per employee per month (PEPM).

What does ADP payroll cost per employee?

ADP provides payroll services priced for businesses of any size. So whether an employer has just one worker at a single location or thousands of employees operating around the globe, we have a payroll solution for them.

This guide is intended to be used as a starting point in analyzing an employer’s payroll obligations and is not a comprehensive resource of requirements. It offers practical information concerning the subject matter and is provided with the understanding that ADP is not rendering legal or tax advice or other professional services.