Running a business is tough enough without having to worry about payroll. Keeping up with employee wages, tax deductions, and government remittances can be a full-time job on its own. That’s why most large companies have dedicated payroll departments, so that managers and decision-makers can focus on what they do best.
That’s where payroll service providers enter the picture. They handle the heavy lifting, so you can focus on growing your business. Whether you run a small startup or a large enterprise, here’s a look at the top payroll service providers in Canada to keep your team paid and your business compliant.
Outsourcing vs. Software
In our discussion below, you’ll find a combination of software-based options and outsourced service providers. For instance, QuickBooks Payroll lets you (or your payroll department) handle all the heavy lifting. In contrast, ADP is an outsourced service provider that will handle all your accounting needs. Which is right for you?
There’s really no single solution that will work for all Canadian businesses because every company has unique needs and constraints. For instance, you might choose to go the software route because you need to keep all payroll information in-house. Another company might outsource its payroll needs because it makes more financial sense to do so.
Not sure which is the right path for you? It can be confusing. Some of the things you’ll need to consider include the following:
- Your business size (larger companies and geographically distributed businesses may benefit more from payroll service providers)
- Your payroll complexity (highly complex payroll needs are best served by payroll service providers rather than software)
- Your HR team’s expertise (if your team is small or doesn’t have a ton of payroll experience, a service provider might be the better choice)
Payroll vs. Accounting Software
You may have already invested in accounting software to help you nail your financials. If so, you’re probably wondering whether it will handle your payroll needs. The answer is “it depends”.
Some accounting software does come with a payroll module. Other platforms offer it as an add-on. However, some don’t provide any payroll support at all. And, make no mistake, accounting software on its own isn’t the right solution. Payroll software (and payroll service providers) for Canadian businesses focus on employee specifics, like wages, deductions, and taxes. Accounting software has a much broader focus.
Given that having even a single employee means dealing with payroll-related issues, it makes sense to know your options. Below, we’ll walk you through some of the top payroll software and payroll service providers in Canada.
1. QuickBooks Payroll
QuickBooks isn’t just for accounting—it also offers a full-service payroll solution for Canadian businesses.
- Best for: Small to medium-sized businesses
- Key features: Automated payroll, direct deposit, CRA remittance, and T4 filing
- Why it’s great: Seamlessly integrates with QuickBooks accounting software
2. Wagepoint
Wagepoint is a Canadian-based payroll service designed specifically for small businesses.
- Best for: Small businesses and startups
- Key features: Direct deposit, tax remittances, ROEs, and year-end reporting
- Why it’s great: Simple interface, great customer service, and compliance with CRA regulations
3. ADP Canada
ADP is one of the biggest names in payroll, offering enterprise-level payroll and HR solutions.
- Best for: Mid-sized to large businesses
- Key features: Payroll processing, HR management, time tracking, and benefits administration
- Why it’s great: Scalable and packed with advanced features for growing businesses
4. Payworks
Payworks is a Canadian company offering cloud-based payroll and workforce management solutions.
- Best for: Businesses of all sizes
- Key features: Payroll automation, tax filing, employee self-service, and HR solutions
- Why it’s great: Designed for compliance with Canadian labor laws and payroll requirements
5. Ceridian Dayforce
Ceridian Dayforce is a high-end payroll and HR platform built for companies that need advanced workforce management.
- Best for: Large businesses and enterprises
- Key features: Real-time payroll processing, tax automation, compliance tools, and workforce analytics
- Why it’s great: All-in-one payroll and HR solution with powerful automation tools
6. Humi
Humi is an all-in-one HR, payroll, and benefits platform made for Canadian businesses.
- Best for: Startups and growing businesses
- Key features: Payroll automation, time-off tracking, benefits management, and employee records
- Why it’s great: Affordable and integrates HR, payroll, and benefits in one system
7. Rise People
Rise People is a modern payroll and HR software that helps businesses streamline payroll and employee management.
- Best for: Small to mid-sized businesses
- Key features: Payroll processing, tax remittances, benefits administration, and employee engagement tools
- Why it’s great: User-friendly and built for Canadian businesses
8. Knit People
Knit People is a Canadian-based payroll software offering full-service payroll management.
- Best for: Small businesses and accounting firms
- Key features: Automatic CRA remittances, direct deposit, ROEs, and benefits integration
- Why it’s great: Affordable and built with Canadian tax compliance in mind
9. Deluxe Payroll
Deluxe Payroll is Canada’s longest-running payroll service provider, offering customized payroll solutions.
- Best for: Businesses of all sizes
- Key features: Payroll processing, direct deposit, T4 generation, and tax remittances
- Why it’s great: Over 50 years of experience serving Canadian businesses
10. Ceridian Powerpay
Powerpay is a payroll solution designed specifically for small businesses from the makers of Ceridian.
- Best for: Small businesses
- Key features: Payroll automation, tax filing, and government compliance
- Why it’s great: Scalable payroll services from a trusted provider
How to Choose the Right Payroll Service for Your Business
Choosing a payroll service depends on your business size, budget, and needs. Here’s a quick guide to help:
- Best for small businesses: Wagepoint, Knit People, Humi, QuickBooks Payroll
- Best for growing companies: Payworks, Rise People, ADP Canada
- Best for large enterprises: Ceridian Dayforce, ADP Canada, Deluxe Payroll
- Best for HR + payroll integration: Humi, Rise People, Ceridian Dayforce
Keeping Your People Paid and Your Business Profitable
Managing payroll doesn’t have to be a headache. With the right payroll service provider, you can automate payments, stay compliant, and focus on running your business—instead of stressing over tax calculations and pay stubs. And if you ever need extra funding to cover payroll or grow your business, Bizfund can help with quick, hassle-free financing based on your future earnings.
