When it comes to payroll, you want a provider that makes the process smooth, secure, and stress-free. ADP and OnPay are two popular payroll solutions, but they take different approaches.
This guide will compare the key features, pros and cons of ADP and OnPay to help you determine which is the better fit for your business.
Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | ADP | OnPay |
| Pricing | Based on number of employees, features | Flat monthly fee |
| Payroll Frequency | Daily, weekly, bi-weekly, semi-monthly, monthly | Unlimited payrolls |
| Payroll Taxes | Handles tax filing and payments | Handles tax filing and payments |
| Time Tracking | Yes, integrated | Third-party integration |
| HR Services | Robust HR modules and support | Limited HR features |
| Mobile App | Yes | Yes |
| Customer Support | Phone, email, chat | Phone, email, chat, self-service portal |
Pricing And Fees
How payroll providers structure their pricing is one of the biggest differences between ADP and OnPay.
ADP bases its fees on the number of employees you have and any additional features you need. The more employees you have, the more you pay. There are also one-time setup and training fees. This model works well for larger businesses, but can get pricey for smaller companies.
OnPay takes a different approach with a simple flat monthly fee regardless of number of employees. Tiered features like time tracking cost extra per month. This predictable pricing model appeals to many small businesses.
Both offer free trials so you can get a customized quote before committing.
Payroll Frequency And Processing
You get plenty of payroll schedule options with both ADP and OnPay.
ADP enables running payroll daily, weekly, bi-weekly, semi-monthly or monthly. You can change frequencies as needed.
OnPay also lets you run payroll as often as you want. The unlimited payroll runs make it easy to pay people on different schedules.
Processing payroll takes just a few clicks with both systems. You enter hours, review the pay stub preview, then approve for direct deposits or printed checks.
Payroll Taxes
Tax headaches are taken care of by both providers.
ADP seamlessly handles calculating payroll taxes and government filings. You just review the details and pay any tax balance due.
OnPay also fully calculates, withholds, and pays your payroll taxes. The app reminds you when quarterly filings and year-end tax documents are due.
Having an experienced team handle payroll taxes saves you significant time and ensures compliance.
Also Read: Differences Between Payfac And Acquirer.
Time Tracking Integration
Employees must report their hours worked so payroll reflects real time. Online time tracking integration makes this easy.
ADP has its own time and attendance module employees can use to track hours. It integrates this data directly into its payroll system.
OnPay currently lacks built-in time tracking capabilities. But you can connect supported third-party apps like TSheets for seamless time data transfer.
HR Services And Support
Payroll providers differ in how many HR and support resources they offer alongside payroll.
ADP has the most robust set of HR tools including benefits admin, compliance, recruiting, and performance management. It also provides HR advice and assistance.
OnPay offers some handy HR features like digitizing onboarding, PTO tracking, and document storage. But has fewer options compared to ADP’s extensive HR suite.
For support, ADP provides phone, email, and live chat. It assigns each client an account rep.
OnPay offers similar phone, email, and chat support options. Their self-service help site adds a layer of DIY access to info.
ADP’s broader HR offerings provide complete payroll and HR under one roof. But OnPay may still provide enough to meet your needs.
Mobile Apps
Convenience is key when you want to handle payroll tasks on the go. ADP and OnPay both offer mobile apps.
The ADP mobile app enables accessing pay stubs, making changes, approving timecards, and more.
OnPay’s mobile app also lets you view pay stubs, make adjustments, and approve payroll from your phone.
Having mobile access allows approving payroll and resolving issues even when you’re out of the office.
Also Read: Which Should You Choose: Gusto Or TriNet?
Is ADP Or OnPay Better For Your Business?
Now that we’ve compared the key features side-by-side, is ADP or OnPay the better choice?
ADP shines for larger businesses who want:
- A wide range of HR functionality
- Dedicated account management
- Flexible payroll schedules
OnPay hits the sweet spot for smaller businesses who want:
- Low predictable flat fees
- Streamlined payroll processing
- DIY help resources
The complexity of your payroll needs and size of your business will determine whether ADP or OnPay is a better fit. Taking advantage of the free trials is the best way to get hands-on and see how each performs for you.
FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about ADP, OnPay, and other top payroll providers.
Paycom and ADP take very different approaches to payroll and HR:
Paycom offers an all-in-one system with payroll, time tracking, HR, and analytics fully integrated. ADP has stand-alone applications you can choose from.
Paycom uses one centralized database while ADP data exists across applications.
Paycom pricing is a per-employee monthly fee. ADP has customized fee quotes based on company needs.
Paycom includes dedicated account manager. ADP offers additional cost account management.
Overall Paycom aims for maximum simplicity and integration while ADP provides flexible a la carte options.
ADP is among the top payroll providers thanks to:
Long track record handling complex payrolls
Wide range of HR services beyond just payroll
Access to HR expertise and support
Customization for unique payroll needs
Integration with major accounting software
So ADP can be a good fit for larger companies wanting payroll paired with robust HR. But it may be overkill for some small businesses just needing basic payroll.
Paychex Vs. ADP is a close comparison:
Paychex offers slightly lower base pricing for basic payroll services while ADP can cost more for add-ons.
ADP has more HR functionality like talent management while Paychex focuses on payroll and HR basics.
Paychex has simpler mobile apps while ADP provides more depth and features.
Paychex includes a dedicated accountant assigned to each client while ADP has additional cost account management.
Overall Paychex edges out ADP a bit for small business focused mainly on streamlined payroll. ADP is better for larger companies needing payroll and broader HR capabilities under one roof.
ADP and Paycor share some similarities but have key differences:
ADP offers stand-alone modules while Paycor uses integrated all-in-one system.
ADP has more extensive HR features and support resources. Paycor provides more limited HR functionality.
Paycor aims for simplicity with flat per-employee pricing. ADP customizes fee quotes based on needs.
ADP has wider brand recognition while Paycor focuses on small-midsize businesses.
Paycor appeals to smaller companies with basic needs thanks to simple integrated payroll. ADP suits larger businesses wanting a la carte payroll and HR.
Also Read: Differences Between Concur Professional And Standard.
Summary
Choosing the right payroll provider involves weighing factors like price, features, complexity, and company size. With ADP’s robust capabilities for larger businesses and OnPay’s affordability for smaller teams, one of these solutions likely fits your needs.
Trying out free trials of ADP and OnPay lets you experience the key differences firsthand. An informed decision will set your company up with a payroll system for streamlined success.