Which HRIS is best for small companies

If your small business is having a tough time managing employee data and payroll across multiple systems, a human resources information system (HRIS) could make all the difference. Small business HRIS software can help your company meet core HR needs and improve productivity through automation and synchronized data. HRIS platforms further support day-to-day efficiency as well as long-term organizational growth. 

Here we'll show you how to choose the best HRIS software for small business operations¹, helping you save time, reduce compliance risks and improve the experience for your employees.

ADP Review – Best overall HRIS software for small businesses

ADP's all-in-one HRIS for small businesses integrates HR, payroll, benefits and compliance into a single platform supported by a mobile app that facilitates self-service for employees and managers. Small businesses value ADP HRIS features like automated tax filing, customizable reporting, time tracking and scheduling tools, not to mention the 24/7 customer support and HR advisory services for added peace of mind. ADP’s scalability and reliability make it a great fit for growing businesses.

Key features

• All-in-one HR, payroll, and compliance platform for small businesses
• Automated tax filing for federal, state, and local taxes
• Customizable reporting and analytics dashboard
• Time tracking and scheduling integrations
• 24/7 customer support plus HR advisory services
• Mobile app for employees and managers

The main takeaway? ADP features the best HRIS software for small business needs, thanks to its real-time data synchronization, payroll automation, compliance tools and scalability. As an integrated platform supported by expert HR services, ADP stands out as a top choice not only because it simplifies tasks like payroll and time tracking but also helps small business owners stay ahead of labor law changes, tax filings and workforce growth while helping reduce administrative burden.

Rippling Review

The Rippling HRIS for small business solution saves time and supports strategic decisions by automating manual tasks, eliminating compliance errors, and giving employees access to information they need. Their HRIS reduces admin work for payroll, benefits, and labor compliance, so small business HR teams can focus on other priorities.

Key features

• Unified HR and IT platform to manage employee data and devices
• Modular system with flexible HR, payroll, benefits, and IT tools
• Supports international payroll and global teams
• Automated onboarding
• Integrated app provisioning for tools like Slack and Zoom
• Full-service payroll with built-in compliance

Why RUN Powered by ADP® is better than Rippling for small business HRIS

Capabilities		Rippling1
All-in-one HR and payroll platform
Automated federal, state and local tax filing
Benefits administration
HR advisory services		NOT OFFERED
Built-in scheduling tools		NOT OFFERED
Self-service employee portal
Dedicated HR tools for businesses with 1–49 employees		NOT OFFERED

The main takeaway? Rippling gets a nod for its HRIS for small companies, which automates time-consuming administrative work like payroll, benefits, onboarding and compliance. Rippling brings HR, IT and finance systems all into one integrated system for faster onboarding and streamlined employee management. But for small businesses that need expert compliance support, hands-on HR guidance from real HR professionals, and a small business HRIS software that can navigate complex tax and regulatory requirements, ADP stands out with its integrated HR, payroll and advisory services tailored to businesses with 1–49 employees.

Explore See how HRIS compares to HRMS & HCM

Paycom Review

With Paycom you get a comprehensive HRIS for small business teams seeking a single software solution that unifies HR and payroll and eliminates the need for multiple systems and manual data reentry. Paycom's small business HRIS offering provides anytime, anywhere access and empowers employees to manage their own payroll with Beti®, while supervisors use Manager on‑the‑Go® to approve timecards, expenses, and schedules via mobile. With automation of key HR tasks, such as recruiting, onboarding, benefits enrollment, and compliance, plus real-time analytics through its Report Center and Direct Data Exchange®, Paycom helps small businesses make faster, data-driven decisions.

Key features

• Employee self-service payroll management
• Real-time time and attendance tracking
• Electronic document management with e-signatures
• Custom workflow automation and task assignments
• Built-in learning management system
• Comprehensive compliance and audit features

Why RUN Powered by ADP® is better than Paycom for small business HRIS

Capabilities		Paycom1
All-in-one HR and payroll platform
Automated federal, state and local tax filing
Mobile app for employees and managers		(Manager on-the-Go®)
Real-time reporting and analytics		(via Report Center and Direct Data Exchange®)
Self-service employee portal		(via Beti®)
Native 401(k) plan		(via integrations)
Built-in scheduling tools
Paper checks and ADP check		NOT OFFERED
HR help desk		NOT OFFERED
Dedicated tools for businesses with 1–49 employees		NOT OFFERED

The main takeaway? Paycom's HRIS is a strong contender as a unified HR and payroll platform that empowers employees to manage their own payroll and allows managers to approve key tasks on the go with its mobile app. Through its single software, small businesses benefit from reduced manual tasks like benefits enrollment and compliance and elimination of duplicate data. Reporting tools provide real-time insights to small biz HR teams. For small businesses that prefer personalized HR guidance, however, not to mention built-in scheduling, and solutions tailored specifically for companies with fewer than 50 employees, ADP remains one of the top HRIS software solutions on the market.

SurePayroll Review

SurePayroll by Paychex offers an HRIS for small companies, household employers, and financial professionals that’s ideal for companies looking for easy tax filing and mobile payroll processing. The platform automates payroll tax calculations and filings, including W‑2s, 1099s, 940, and 941 forms, helping businesses pay employees and file taxes on time. Through its intuitive automated platform, users can run payroll in minutes — from anywhere — and enjoy free unlimited payroll runs, free two‑day direct deposit, and free auto payroll. SurePayroll also includes mobile access, expert customer care, and free payroll and business calculators (e.g., paycheck, tax, cash flow) to help small business owners make strategic payroll decisions.

Key features

• Designed for small and household employers
• Automated tax filings and year-end forms (W-2, 1099)
• Fast, mobile-friendly payroll processing
• Easy integration with accounting software
• U.S.-based customer support

Why RUN Powered by ADP® is better than SurePayroll for small business HRIS

Capabilities		SurePayroll1
All-in-one HR and payroll platform		PRIMARILY PAYROLL-FOCUSED
Automated tax filing (federal, state, local)
W-2, 1099, 940, 941 filing
Employee self-service portal
Advanced SUI management (including claims support, benefits payment reviews and best practices consulting)		NOT OFFERED
Learning management tools		NOT OFFERED
Built-in time tracking and scheduling		NOT OFFERED
Paper checks and ADP check		NOT OFFERED
Live HR help desk support		NOT OFFERED
Customizable analytics and reporting dashboard		NOT OFFERED
Onboarding and compliance tools		LIMITED

The main takeaway? The SurePayroll HRIS solution for small businesses features fast, user-friendly payroll services, including automatic tax filings, unlimited payroll runs, mobile access, and U.S.-based support. But for teams that need more than just payroll, such as benefits administration, time tracking, scheduling, advanced reporting, and HR advisory services, ADP offers a more complete small business HRIS platform that helps support growth and compliance.

Paychex Flex Review

Paychex Flex is a unified HRIS system for small business teams that makes payroll, benefits, and workforce management easier — all from a single platform. It delivers real-time data accuracy as well as comprehensive self-service features, giving employees access to pay stubs, tax forms, personal info, and timekeeping via desktop or mobile. For HR teams looking to reduce time-consuming manual tasks, it includes automated time and attendance tracking with geofencing, seamless applicant tracking, onboarding and compliance support, plus real‑time analytics and performance management tools.

Key features

• Complete HR, payroll, and benefits suite
• Scalable plans suitable for businesses with 1–49+ employees
• Compliance tools for ACA, COBRA, and other labor regulations
• Self-service employee portal for pay stubs and tax forms
• 24/7 U.S.-based support with HR consulting available
• AI-powered insights and industry benchmarking

Why RUN Powered by ADP® is better than Paychex Flex for small business HRIS

Capabilities		Paychex Flex1
All-in-one HR and payroll platform		PRIMARILY PAYROLL-FOCUSED
Automated tax filing (federal, state, local)
Time tracking + scheduling tools
Compliance help (labor law, ACA, tax)
Fully integrated single platform
Employee onboarding		WITH PURCHASE OF TOP 2 BUNDLES
24/7 customer support across all bundles		NOT OFFERED
Native HR help desk capabilities		NOT OFFERED

The main takeaway? Paychex Flex is a solid choice for its HRIS small business platform featuring customizable payroll, benefits, and workforce management tools, all built on a unified system. It offers real-time data accuracy, mobile accessibility, self-service features, and time tracking with geofencing so it's an admirable solution for businesses seeking flexibility and automation. But ADP often ranks among the best HRIS for small business platforms for growing teams, thanks to its dedicated HR advisory services, built-in scheduling, and deep compliance expertise and support geared to companies with under 50 employees.

Gusto Review

Gusto offers one simple, full-service HRIS system for small businesses, which includes payroll, benefits, time tracking, hiring, onboarding, and performance management. With automated tax filings, benefits deductions, PTO tracking and built-in compliance, the system syncs HR functions every time you run payroll. Employees enjoy self-service access and mobile tools to manage their own information. Small business HR teams get a comprehensive platform that includes tools for offer letters, onboarding checklists, performance reviews and org charts. Gusto's HRIS is a popular choice for small businesses that are growing and wish to streamline HR without having to switch between different systems.

Key features

• Full-service payroll with automatic tax filings
• Integrated employee benefits management
• Paperless onboarding with checklists and e-signatures
• Built-in time tracking and PTO management
• Intuitive and user-friendly interface
• Live HR support and compliance alerts

Why RUN Powered by ADP® is better than Gusto for small business HRIS

Capabilities		Gusto1
All-in-one HR and payroll platform
Automated tax filing (federal, state, local)
Advanced SUI management (including claims support, benefits payment reviews and best practices consulting)		NOT OFFERED
Legal services		NOT OFFERED
Multi-state payroll across all bundles		REQUIRES UPGRADE
Customizable analytics and reporting dashboard		NOT EMPHASIZED
Full suite of employee scheduling tools		NOT OFFERED
Paper checks and ADP check		NOT OFFERED
Native HR help desk capabilities		NOT OFFERED
Background checks (integrated)		SOLELY THROUGH INTEGRATION PARTNERS
Upnetic Legal Services*		NOT OFFERED

*Legal Services are part of the HRPro bundle and provided by Upnetic Legal Services powered by Legal Club^® (of America), a third-party provider.

The main takeaway? Gusto's streamlined, user-friendly HRIS is ideal for small business teams needing basic automation across HR and payroll. ADP's HRIS takes the lead, however, for its built-in compliance support and expertise, dedicated HR guidance, scheduling tools, and customizable reporting capabilities. It's simply a more comprehensive and scalable solution for small businesses looking for long-term growth and support.

Quickbooks Payroll Review

With its streamlined small business HRIS solution, Quickbooks allows small businesses to manage HR and payroll in one place. By integrating payroll, time tracking, and accounting data, their HRIS reduces manual tasks for small businesses. Automated payroll tax filing with guaranteed accuracy, same- or next-day direct deposit, and self-service access to pay stubs and W‑2s makes this a win for HR teams as well as employees. Built-in onboarding tools include e-signatures and automated I‑9s to simplify hiring, while a certified HR support center helps businesses stay compliant.

Key features

• Seamless integration with QuickBooks accounting software
• Same-day direct deposit on eligible plans
• Automated payroll tax calculation and filing
• Tax penalty protection up to $25,000
• Mobile access for payroll and tax management
• Benefits options including health insurance and 401(k)

Why RUN Powered by ADP® is better than Quickbooks Payroll for small business HRIS

Capabilities		Quickbooks Payroll1
All-in-one HR, payroll and compliance platform
Automated tax filing (federal, state, local)
Time tracking tools
Employee self-service portal
Scheduling tools
Advanced SUI management (including claims support, benefits payment reviews and best practices consulting)		NOT OFFERED
Paper checks and ADP check		NOT OFFERED
Native HR support/compliance guidance	(WITH HR ADVISORY SERVICES)	NOT OFFERED
Background checks (integrated)		VIA INTEGRATION
Live HR advisory services		NOT OFFERED*

*Electronic-focused support

The main takeaway? QuickBooks offers a streamlined HR and payroll solution with automated tax filing, same-day direct deposit, onboarding tools, and seamless accounting integration, which is great for small businesses looking to stay organized and efficient. It also includes a self-service portal, mobile access, and a helpful HR support center. But ADP offers the best HRIS system for small companies, thanks to its live HR advisory services, built-in scheduling, background checks, and advanced compliance tools for growing teams that need more than just payroll.

Advantages of HRIS for small businesses

Implementing an HRIS can be a big win for small businesses looking to streamline HR operations, minimize time-consuming manual processes, and get help with compliance challenges. Plus, an HRIS isn't just for large entities. Many offer scalable solutions geared to the needs of small business growth. Here are some of the ways an HRIS for small business can improve HR processes for your organization.

Recruitment & onboarding

Bringing good people on board matters. That's why it makes sense to have an HRIS platform that can streamline the recruitment process for your business. Having a single, centralized system for job postings, applications, and candidate tracking can reduce the administrative burden on your HR team. Features like applicant tracking systems (ATS), customizable workflows, and communication templates make it easier to screen and engage top candidates while analytics tools can help identify hiring challenges and improve sourcing strategies in the future.

Once you've hired someone, the HRIS can support smooth onboarding, providing your new candidate with the necessary documentation, benefits enrollment process, and training materials, all through a secure, self-service portal. Through a series of checklists and reminders, your employees feel prepared and welcomed. The onboarding experience provided by an HRIS not only helps with compliance but also boosts retention by establishing a consistent and professional first impression.

Worker classification

In order for small businesses to comply with labor laws and avoid potential fines, you have to properly classify your workers, such as full-time, part-time, contractor or freelancer. With an HRIS, you can easily tag, organize and track these employee types all in one system, which makes it easier to stay compliant with labor and tax laws related to worker classification.

Time & attendance tracking

Small businesses can avoid time and attendance tracking errors with an HRIS software that automates these tasks, allowing employees to clock in and out digitally while giving managers visibility into attendance, scheduling and time off. With built-in integrations for payroll, HRIS software also eliminates the need for manual timesheet calculations, helping to get employees paid correctly and on time.

Labor law compliance

Labor laws and regulations are constantly changing, making it challenging for small businesses to keep compliant. An HRIS can help by providing a central repository for employee records, automating critical documentation, and keeping track of metrics like overtime, mandated breaks, and leave policies. Using an automated system can further minimize the risk of human error and provide alerts to regulatory changes and deadlines to help small business teams meet compliance challenges.

Integration with payroll

Paying your employees accurately and on time is foundational to your small business success. An HRIS for small businesses can seamlessly integrate with your payroll systems, so that employee data such as hours worked, benefits, tax withholdings and job classifications, are all linked to payroll processing. This helps reduce the need for duplicate data entry and reduces error-prone manual tasks. For small business teams with limited HR resources, an HRIS can be a game-changer when it comes to streamlining payroll operations.

Time & cost savings

Small businesses tend to run on a tighter budget so the last thing you need is more human resource expense. It just makes sense to implement an HRIS to automate all those routine HR tasks that consume time and money. From talent acquisition to payroll, a cloud-based HRIS for small business can be an affordable way to minimize the manual work while also reducing human error and supporting critical compliance requirements.

Self-service employee portal

Providing your employees with a self-service portal empowers your team to manage their own information without relying on HR assistance. Most HRIS platforms provide a user-friendly dashboard that allows employees to view pay stubs, update their personal details, submit time-off requests, review benefits, and complete onboarding tasks—all from one place. Aside from the clear reduced administrative burden, having a self-service portal improves the employee experience and streamlines operations by promoting autonomy and supporting easy and efficient communication with your small business workforce.

For smaller companies looking to streamline HR processes, get help with compliance challenges,, and deliver a more efficient and engaging employee experience, the best HRIS for small business is ADP’s RUN Powered by ADP^® solution - a smart investment that can save time, reduce costs, and support long-term growth.

1. Information based on ADP internal research and is accurate as of October 2025 and is subject to change.