Best Square Payroll Alternatives & Competitors for 2025

Imed Bouchrika, Phd

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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1

NetSuite ERP

5 / 5

Read more about NetSuite ERP

NetSuite ERP stands out by integrating data management across departments, breaking down silos to create a cohesive platform where finance, sales, HR, and operations teams can access synchronized, real-time information. This integration fosters enhanced collaboration, accelerates reporting processes, and supports more strategic decision-making throughout the company. Its automation capabilities streamline repetitive tasks such as sales order processing and invoice creation, which not only boosts productivity but also minimizes errors and manual workloads. Built on a cloud-based framework, NetSuite ERP offers scalable flexibility and secure remote access, making it an adaptable solution for businesses expanding their reach or supporting distributed teams.

Key Features of NetSuite ERP
  • Comprehensive Integration Capabilities
  • Smart Automation
  • Advanced Data Analysis
  • Cash Flow Forecasting
  • Flexible Subscription Management
  • Cloud-Based Architecture
  • AI-Powered Capabilities
  • Global Business Management
Price of NetSuite ERP

NetSuite ERP pricing starts with a base license fee of about $1,000 per month, granting access to core ERP functions. User licenses cost between $99 and $149 monthly, depending on roles and access levels. Implementation expenses vary widely from $7,500 to over $37,500 due to customization and complexity. Add-on modules, like Advanced Financials, begin around $399 per month, while SuiteCommerce ranges from $999 to $3,000 monthly based on eCommerce needs. Pricing adapts to company size, functionality, and contract length, so contacting NetSuite for a tailored quote is essential.

2

5 / 5

Read more about monday

Monday.com is a highly adaptable platform designed to streamline work and project management for teams of various sizes. Its user-friendly, visually organized interface, enhanced by color-coded elements, allows users to navigate effortlessly without needing technical skills. With over 200 ready-made templates and a straightforward drag-and-drop system, teams can quickly set up workflows and begin managing tasks efficiently. Additionally, its powerful dashboard builder and no-code automation tools help users visualize data clearly and eliminate repetitive processes, boosting overall productivity.

Key Features of monday
  • Visual Board Structure
  • Customizable Columns
  • Multiple Board Views
  • Automations
  • Integrations
  • Dashboards and Reporting
  • Time Tracking
  • Mobile App Support
Price of monday

monday.com offers a Free Plan for up to two users at no cost, ideal for individuals or small teams. The Basic Plan costs $12 per seat monthly and includes unlimited boards and prioritized support. The Standard Plan at $17 per seat monthly adds timeline and calendar views, guest access, and automation limits of 250 actions. The Pro Plan, $28 per seat monthly, significantly increases automation and integrations to 25,000 actions and introduces private boards and enhanced analytics. Enterprise pricing is custom and includes advanced security and premium support. A 14-day free trial of Pro is available.

3

4.8 / 5

Read more about Jotform

Jotform stands out as a versatile online form builder software that caters to both individuals and organizations seeking efficient solutions for creating customized forms without needing coding skills. Its intuitive drag-and-drop interface, combined with a vast library of pre-designed templates, enables users to quickly produce professional-quality forms for various applications such as surveys, registrations, and payments. The platform’s strong integration capabilities with popular third-party tools streamline data management and automate workflows, while features like conditional logic personalize the user experience by adapting forms based on input. Additionally, Jotform prioritizes security with SSL encryption and offers collaborative tools and notification systems, making it a comprehensive choice that is accessible even to small users through its free plan.

Key Features of Jotform
  • Powerful User-Friendly Survey Builder Tools
  • Vast Library of Customizable Templates
  • Real-Time Comprehensive Reporting and Analytics
  • Seamless Embedded Website Form Integration
  • Innovative Optimized Mobile-Friendly Form Experience
  • Dynamic Conditional Logic for Customization
  • Extensive Integrations with Third Parties
  • Secure Payments Integration for Commerce
Price of Jotform

Jotform offers flexible pricing plans to suit diverse needs. The Free plan provides limited monthly submissions and basic features at no cost, ideal for testing new ideas. The Bronze and Silver plans, at $34 and $39 per month respectively, expand submission limits, payment capacities, storage, and form customization by eliminating branding. Advanced users benefit from the Gold plan at $49 monthly, combining extensive submissions, larger storage, and HIPAA compliance. For unlimited use and tailored solutions, the Enterprise plan invites direct inquiry for pricing details. Contact Jotform now for further information.

4

4.5 / 5

Read more about MarketMan

MarketMan stands out as a comprehensive solution designed to help restaurants optimize their operations and enhance profitability through advanced inventory management. Its system automates the tracking of stock levels in real-time and sends alerts when supplies fall below predetermined thresholds, thereby reducing waste and preventing over-purchasing. Additionally, the platform streamlines back-of-house processes such as invoice handling, purchasing, and recipe costing, all accessible via any device thanks to its cloud-based infrastructure. Complemented by insightful analytics and seamless integration with other hospitality tools, MarketMan empowers restaurant owners with greater control and data-driven insights to make smarter business decisions.

Key Features of MarketMan
  • Inventory Management with real-time tracking
  • Automated Ordering System from multiple suppliers
  • Invoice Processing via photo or upload
  • POS System Integration with major platforms
  • Real-Time Food Cost Transparency
  • AI-Powered Automation for tasks
  • Predictive AI for Waste Reduction
  • Multi-Platform Accessibility across devices
Price of MarketMan

The Starter Plan costs $199 per location monthly or $169 with annual billing, including 50 invoice scans and core inventory features, plus a $500 setup fee. The Growth Plan is $249 monthly or $211 annually, offering unlimited invoice scans and enhanced tools to reduce costs, also with a $500 setup fee. Enterprise pricing is custom, tailored for larger operations, featuring unlimited scans and vendor integrations. Additional plans like Professional and Ultimate offer advanced features at $299 and $429 per month respectively. Extra fees apply for added scans and vendor integrations.

5

Cova

4.5 / 5

Read more about Cova

Cova software stands out as a dependable and scalable point-of-sale solution tailored specifically for cannabis retailers. Its user-friendly touchscreen interface and offline mode ensure uninterrupted sales even during network disruptions or peak periods like 4/20. Designed with compliance in mind, Cova integrates directly with major government reporting systems, minimizing errors and helping businesses stay aligned with regulatory changes. Additionally, its customizable security settings and open API allow for flexible integrations and enhanced control over staff access, supported by responsive customer service to address any technical needs promptly.

Key Features of Cova
  • Intuitive Point-of-Sale Interface
  • Compliance Management with age verification
  • Advanced Inventory Management
  • Customer Queue Management
  • Loyalty Program Management
  • Real-Time Analytics and Reporting
  • Multi-Location Support
  • Offline Functionality
Price of Cova

Cova offers three main pricing plans tailored to different business sizes. The Boutique Plan costs $349 per month and supports one POS workstation, covering essential cannabis retail features like compliance and inventory management. The Powerhouse Plan, at $549 monthly, accommodates up to four POS workstations and adds enhanced inventory and reporting capabilities for higher-volume operations. For large multi-store chains, the Enterprise Plan requires a custom quote and includes advanced multi-location support and custom integrations. Canadian pricing begins at C$379 per month, reflecting additional regulatory features.

6

KORONA POS

4.5 / 5

Read more about KORONA POS

KORONA POS is a versatile cloud-based solution designed to enhance retail and ticketing operations by offering secure data storage alongside convenient remote access to critical business insights from any location with internet connectivity. Its robust multi-store management features allow users to seamlessly monitor individual outlets or aggregate data across several locations, providing tailored views for specific economic segments. The platform’s intuitive interface minimizes employee training time, while its comprehensive inventory management tools assist in optimizing stock levels based on detailed profitability and revenue analyses. Additionally, KORONA POS supports modern payment integrations, automatic updates, controlled employee access, and smooth accounting connectivity with QuickBooks, all backed by strong customer support.

Key Features of KORONA POS
  • Cloud-Based Software Architecture
  • Advanced Inventory Management
  • Automated Reorder Optimization
  • Promotions and Discounts Management
  • Employee Management System
  • Multi-Location Support
  • Real-Time Reporting and Analytics
  • Offline Functionality
Price of KORONA POS

KORONA POS offers a subscription starting at $59/month for the Core plan, which includes unlimited users, sales, customizable dashboards, and key features like promotions and gift cards. The Retail plan, priced at $69/month, adds inventory and stock management, barcode automation, and supplier integration, catering to businesses requiring advanced retail tools. Add-ons such as the Gate option for $50/month per gate and the Franchise add-on at $30/month per franchise provide specialized functionality for admission venues and franchise operations. A free trial is available with no setup fees.

7
Read more about Zoho Inventory

Zoho Inventory is presented as an inventory control solution designed for businesses seeking streamlined stock management and efficient order processing. Its features are positioned to address diverse operational needs, ensuring that companies can navigate the complexities of inventory oversight while maintaining a competitive edge. Overall, the product is portrayed as a robust tool for those evaluating options in the inventory control software space.

Key Features of Zoho Inventory
  • Comprehensive, Centralized, Real-Time Inventory Database
  • Interactive Real-Time Inventory Level Dashboards
  • Automated Low Stock Notifications Alert
  • Seamless eCommerce Integrations Across Channels
  • Unified Multi-Channel Inventory Management System
  • Efficient Purchase Order Management Process
  • Accurate Barcode Scanning and Tracking
  • Comprehensive Reporting and Data Analytics
Price of Zoho Inventory

Zoho Inventory offers plans that cater to various business needs. The Free Edition provides 50 orders monthly, one warehouse and user at no cost when billed annually. The Standard Edition ($29) supports 500 orders, one warehouse and two users. The Professional Edition ($79) and Premium Edition ($129) offer higher capacities, added workflow automation and enhanced integrations. The Enterprise Edition ($249) supports 15,000 orders monthly with seven warehouses and users. Each plan is structured to scale with your business, ensuring essential inventory control and seamless operational management. Choose the ideal solution.

8

Square

4.35 / 5

Read more about Square

Square Online emerges as a versatile and intuitive platform that enables even business owners with minimal technical expertise to quickly create and maintain a professional online store. It offers a transparent pricing model, including a complimentary entry plan that permits users to sell online without upfront costs, thereby making it an attractive alternative to costly physical storefronts. Seamless integration with Square’s comprehensive ecosystem—especially with its Point of Sale system—ensures that inventory and sales data flow effortlessly between online and offline channels. Additionally, its mobile-responsive design and built-in analytics furnish valuable insights into customer behavior and sales trends, equipping businesses with the operational clarity needed to refine their digital strategies.

Key Features of Square
  • Point of Sale (POS) System
  • Payment Processing
  • Inventory Management
  • Sales Reporting
  • Customer Insights
  • Online Store Setup
  • Mobile Compatibility
  • Security Features
Price of Square

Square offers pricing plans designed for varied business needs. The Free Plan, costing $0 per month, charges 2.9% plus 30¢ per transaction and includes essential features like in-person sales, online presence, and a website builder with SEO tools. The Plus Plan, at $29 monthly (billed annually), adds advanced website customization, scheduled product drops, and QR code ordering, along with a free domain for one year. For businesses processing over $200k annually, the Premium Plan provides custom pricing, lower processing rates, and premium support. Simple clear choices.

Read more about Netstock

Netstock is presented as a supply chain planning software solution designed to help organizations streamline their inventory and planning processes. It is positioned as an accessible tool that supports data-driven decisions and robust forecasting techniques to meet the evolving demands of modern supply chains. The platform’s design emphasizes agility and efficiency, catering to businesses that seek to optimize operations without excessive complexity. Overall, Netstock offers a promising approach for companies looking to enhance their supply chain planning with a user-oriented solution.

Key Features of Netstock
  • Comprehensive Centralized Multi-Location Inventory Database
  • Advanced Real-Time Inventory Forecasting Tools
  • Integrated Cutting-Edge Predictive Analytics Engine
  • Instant Low Stock Notification Alerts
  • Automated Dynamic Purchase Order Generation
  • Real-Time Dynamic Safety Stock Management
  • Seamless Integrations with ERP Systems
  • Comprehensive Strategic Scenario Planning Capabilities
Price of Netstock

Netstock offers a host of customized pricing plans designed to serve diverse inventory and demand planning needs. Businesses can choose from options such as Predictor IA®, an AI-driven system for inventory optimization, and Predictor IBP®, which combines demand, supply, and capacity planning. The Essentials, Advanced, and Commercial plans progressively add features ranging from dashboards to AI integration. Expert modules for demand, supply, and capacity planning further enhance flexibility. Although detailed pricing is not disclosed, interested customers are encouraged to contact Netstock directly for personalized quotes based on unique operational requirements.

10

Ruby Has Fulfillment

4.5 / 5

Read more about Ruby Has Fulfillment

Ruby Has Fulfillment stands out as a powerful third-party logistics provider tailored for eCommerce businesses that require scalable and enterprise-grade solutions. With fulfillment centers strategically located across the United States—including New York, New Jersey, Nevada, and the Midwest—the company enables faster delivery and cost-efficient shipping nationwide. Its seamless integration with popular platforms like Shopify and Amazon streamlines order processing, while value-added services such as secure inventory storage and returns management offer flexibility for diverse business needs. Furthermore, Ruby Has fosters industry collaboration through initiatives like the DTC Consortium, giving clients access to exclusive insights and networking opportunities.

Key Features of Ruby Has Fulfillment
  • Automatic Order Creation
  • Automatic Tracking Sync
  • Automatic Inventory Sync
  • Unlimited Account Connections
  • Pay-As-You-Go Model
  • International Distribution Network
  • High Speed and Accuracy Rates
  • Multi-Channel Fulfillment Support
Price of Ruby Has Fulfillment

Ruby Has Fulfillment does not publicly disclose specific pricing details. Their pricing is customized based on factors such as order volume, storage needs, shipping destinations, and additional services required. Since Ruby Has operates as a third-party logistics provider focused on ecommerce fulfillment, costs likely vary significantly depending on each client’s unique requirements. Prospective customers are advised to contact Ruby Has directly to receive a tailored quote that fits their business needs and shipping volumes. No standardized pricing plans are available at this time.

Overview

Choosing the right payroll software can be challenging, especially if you’ve found that Square Payroll doesn’t fully meet your business needs. Whether it’s limitations in features, pricing, or integration options, many prospective customers face hurdles when trying to manage their payroll efficiently.

This article will guide you through alternative solutions that may better align with your specific requirements. By exploring a variety of options, you can discover software that offers enhanced flexibility, improved automation, and more comprehensive support tailored to your business size and industry.

Reading this guide will help you save time and avoid costly mistakes by understanding the key factors to consider before switching payroll systems. You’ll gain insights that empower you to make an informed decision, ultimately streamlining your payroll process and improving overall workforce management.

What is Square Payroll?

Square Payroll is designed to simplify payroll for small businesses by automating complex tasks such as tax calculations, filings, and payments. It supports both W-2 employees and 1099 contractors, offering flexible payment options like direct deposit, check, and Cash App. The platform allows unlimited payroll runs without extra fees, enabling businesses to process payroll as often as necessary.

The software manages federal and state tax obligations automatically, including delivering year-end tax forms digitally. While it covers employee tax compliance thoroughly, contractors are responsible for their own tax payments. This distinction is important for businesses employing a mix of workers.

Integration with Square’s other products, especially Square POS, ensures employee hours and tips sync automatically into payroll. Time tracking is comprehensive, allowing employees to clock in/out via mobile or POS with settings for overtime and breaks that alert managers to any discrepancies, helping maintain labor law compliance.

Benefit management is streamlined with online enrollment options for health savings accounts, flexible spending accounts, and various retirement plans. Benefit deductions and contributions sync with each payroll run automatically. Employers managing benefits outside Square’s ecosystem must handle those payments independently.

Accessible on both web and mobile platforms, Square Payroll enables business owners to run payroll remotely. Employees benefit from a self-service portal to update personal information and view pay stubs, which lightens administrative burdens.

For businesses exploring various software options, it may be helpful to review a list crm to understand complementary tools that can enhance operational efficiency alongside payroll management.

What to look for in Square Payroll alternatives?

Choosing alternatives to Square Payroll requires careful consideration of specific features that align with your business’s operational needs. Square Payroll is recognized for its straightforward, budget-friendly approach that integrates seamlessly with the Square POS system, facilitating payments to both employees and contractors while automating tax calculations and filings.

When exploring other options, integration is paramount. The new software should connect smoothly with your existing point-of-sale, accounting, and human resources platforms. This reduces manual data entry and minimizes errors, especially if your business uses tools beyond Square POS.

Payroll flexibility is another critical aspect. The ideal software must support various pay structures—handling both hourly and salaried staff, as well as contractors—and accommodate multi-state payroll complexities. Automated federal, state, and local tax filings remain essential to maintain compliance without added administrative burden.

Many businesses require more than basic payroll processing. Unlike Square Payroll, which offers limited HR and benefits administration, some alternatives provide comprehensive HR management features such as onboarding and benefits tracking. Assessing these capabilities is important if your organization needs integrated human resources support alongside payroll.

The user experience cannot be overlooked. Simple, intuitive payroll processing tools, employee self-service portals, and mobile or web app accessibility help streamline workflows and reduce errors. A well-designed interface aligns with your team’s familiarity and minimizes the need for extensive training or support.

Cost transparency is key. Comparing subscription models and per-employee fees helps avoid surprises. Pricing should be predictable and fair, particularly when managing a workforce with a combination of employees and contractors.

Finally, reliable customer support and system stability are vital. Square Payroll offers weekday assistance, but alternatives might deliver extended support hours or multiple contact channels, which can be crucial during payroll cycles.

For organizations in education seeking integrated solutions, it may be worthwhile to explore the best erp for schools, which often include payroll functionalities combined with administrative and educational management tools, providing a broader ecosystem beyond standalone payroll services.

Frequently Asked Questions about Square Payroll

What are the top alternatives to Square Payroll?

Popular alternatives include Patriot Payroll, APS, Paychex Flex, Papaya Global, Gusto, Rippling, OnPay, ADP, and Rho. These providers are praised for their strong payroll and HR capabilities as well as reliable customer service.

Do Square Payroll alternatives support multi-state payroll processing?

Yes, several options like Gusto, Rippling, OnPay, and ADP support payroll across multiple states, making them ideal for businesses operating in more than one location.

Can I compare multiple Square Payroll alternatives side-by-side?

Indeed, some platforms allow side-by-side comparisons of up to four payroll solutions, helping businesses identify the best fit for their unique requirements.

Are there alternatives that offer both payroll and broader HR services?

Certain providers such as Gusto and Rippling go beyond payroll by offering comprehensive HR tools including hiring, onboarding, benefits management, and performance tracking.

What motivates businesses to switch from Square Payroll to an alternative?

Common drivers include the demand for enhanced HR features, automated compliance assistance, multi-state payroll support, and superior integration options with other software.

Do any alternatives provide dedicated or extended customer support hours?

Yes, providers like Gusto and Rho offer longer support hours or even round-the-clock customer service, exceeding Square Payroll’s weekday-only support model.

Are there Square Payroll alternatives that integrate seamlessly with accounting or POS systems?

Many alternatives, including Gusto, Rippling, and Rho, provide direct integrations with popular accounting, HR, and point-of-sale systems to streamline business workflows.

Is it possible to get personalized recommendations for payroll alternatives?

Certain services offer tailored software suggestions based on specific business needs, aiding in the selection of the most suitable payroll platform.

Do Square Payroll alternatives support contractor payments?

Most leading alternatives accommodate contractor payments, often featuring clear monthly pricing per contractor, which benefits businesses managing a mix of employees and contractors.

Are free trials or demos available with Square Payroll alternatives?

Many providers offer free trials or demo versions, allowing businesses to evaluate features and usability before committing financially.