FreshPay vs BrightPay: Which Payroll Software Is Right for You?

When it comes to running payroll, bureaus and accountants need payroll software that is reliable, efficient, and built to handle the pressure of tight deadlines. BrightPay has long been a recognised name in payroll software, while FreshPay is a newer cloud based software designed specifically for bureaus and accountants.

So, how do they compare? Let’s take a closer look.

1. Cloud-Based Flexibility

• BrightPay: Traditionally a desktop-based system with an option for cloud add-ons (BrightPay Connect). This can mean extra costs for cloud functionality, and it requires installations and updates to stay current.
  
• FreshPay: 100% cloud-based from the ground up. No installations, no manual updates, and access from anywhere. Ideal for bureaus managing multiple clients and teams remotely.
  

2. Pricing Transparency

• BrightPay: Pricing is licence-based, typically per employer, with additional costs, per employee, if you want the Connect cloud service. For bureaus managing many small employers, this can quickly become expensive.
  
• FreshPay: Transparent, per-employer pricing that flexes as your clients grow or shrink. No hidden charges for extra employees or “add-ons.” All features are included, and monthly rolling contracts mean no tie-ins.
  

3. Client Communication & Portals

• BrightPay: Employers and employees can use BrightPay Connect for document sharing and payslips, but this comes at an extra cost and requires additional setup.
  
• FreshPay: Employer and employee portals are built in as standard, with no extra fees. Clients and employees can access payslips, reports, and even messages directly within the system – saving time and cutting out endless email chains.
  

4. Integrations

• BrightPay: Supports pension provider integrations, though setup may require additional steps depending on the provider.
  
• FreshPay: Direct integrations with major pension providers, with a quick and easy setup. Payroll submissions and pension uploads are automated to cut down on manual work.
  

5. Features That Reduce Admin

• BrightPay: Covers all standard payroll tasks, with functionality added via BrightPay Connect. However, running multiple employers can require a lot of manual oversight.
  
• FreshPay: Built with bureaus in mind – clear workflow dashboard, assigning users to payrolls, employer approvals, read-only user access, and more. New features are released almost every month, based on user feedback.
  

6. Support That Stands Out

• BrightPay: Offers support via phone and email, though availability may vary.
  
• FreshPay: Twice-daily live support sessions (no booking required), plus setup guides, video walkthroughs, and an onboarding hub. Monthly lunch-and-learn sessions walk through new features so users can get the most out of the software.  Also telephone, email, and ticketing support, as well as an annual payroll update course and other educational webinars.

Which One Is Right for You?

If you’re looking for established, desktop-first payroll software, BrightPay may tick your boxes. But for bureaus and accountants who want a modern, fully cloud based software built to save time, reduce admin, and provide standout support, FreshPay is the clear choice.

With transparent pricing, built-in portals, and a support team who understands payroll inside out, FreshPay isn’t just software – it’s a partner in your payroll process.

👉 Ready to see the difference? Try FreshPay and discover how payroll can be simpler, faster, and more collaborative.