FreshPay vs Other Cloud Based Payroll Software: Which Is Right for You?

When it comes to managing payroll, cloud payroll software has changed the game forever. The new world of accessibility, automation, and updates in real-time are simply features that traditional desktop systems simply can’t match. But with so many options out there, how do you know which one is right for you?

Take a look at this comparison to help you understand how FreshPay stacks up against other cloud based payroll software – so you can make an informed decision.

1. Ease of Use & Onboarding

Other cloud payroll software:
Many providers offer cloud-based access but still have a few learning curves. Onboarding often involves lengthy training sessions or complex setup processes.

FreshPay:
We’ve designed FreshPay with ease and simplicity in mind. Our organised interface means you can hit the ground running. For new users, our dedicated onboarding page, step-by-step setup guides, and video tutorials make getting started quick and stress-free. It doesn’t stop there, we offer drop-in sessions twice a day so you’ll never be left waiting for answers – we’re here when you need us.

2. Client Communication & Collaboration

Other cloud based payroll software:
Communication tools can be limited, leaving you to manage client queries via email or external systems.

FreshPay:
We’ve designed FreshPay with client communication and collaboration at its core. Our built-in employer and employee portals let you share information directly within the software, meaning no more endless email chains or juggling systems. Whether it’s sharing payslips or keeping clients updated, everything happens in one organised place.

3. Support You Can Rely On

Other cloud based payroll software:
Some providers charge extra for support or only offer limited help hours and methods of contact.

FreshPay:
All FreshPay users get access to our UK-based support team, on-hand live support sessions twice a day on weekdays, monthly live Q&A sessions, and a growing library of help resources. That’s not all – we also offer availability by phone or support tickets 8am until 6pm, Monday to Friday, with responses in the hour. Whether it’s a quick “how do I…” question or in-depth process guidance, we’re here to help, no need to queue!

4. Pricing Transparency

Other cloud based payroll software:

Pricing can often be complicated, with hidden charges for extra features, support, or additional employees. Many providers aren’t transparent, meaning you need to contact them just to get a quote.

FreshPay:
Our pricing is based per employer, giving payroll bureaus a flexible option that scales with their clients, without penalising them as headcounts go up or down. Everything is clear and transparent on our website, with no hidden fees or surprise add-ons. Just simple monthly plans that fit your needs. Plus, you can enjoy a rolling contract, so no tie-ins, no stress, just flexibility!

Here’s a rundown of FreshPay information – Please note: data was accurate at the time of writing but may have since changed.

FreshPay Basics

CategoryFreshPay
Target Company SizeSmall to Medium
Industry FocusPayroll for accountants and payroll bureaus

FreshPay Reviews

CategoryFreshPay
Listed On HMRC WebsiteYes
Google Rating4.9
Number of Google Reviews31
Trustpilot Rating4.1
Number of Trustpilot Reviews6
Xero Rating5 Stars
Number of Xero Reviews5

FreshPay Prices

CategoryFreshPay
Free Trial?Yes
Free Trial Length?30 days

Paid Plan Prices

Single Employers
PlanCost Per Month
Cheapest Plan – Up to 5 Employees£6.50
5+£1 per Additional Employee
Accountants & Bureaus – Full Payroll Module
Number of EmployersCost Per Month
First 5£25
6-25£5.00 per employer
26-50£4.75 per employer
51-100£4.50 per employer
101-250£4 per employer
251-500£4 per employer
Accountants & Bureaus – Director Module
Number of DirectorsCost Per Month
1-10£10
11-Upwards£1 per Director company (minimum charge of £10).

Note: All prices exclude VAT.

FreshPay Features

FreshPay Basic Features

✅ Fully cloud based payroll
✅ Built-in Employee Portal
✅ Built-in Employer Portal
✅ Automatic compliance submissions
✅ Automatic generation of employee documents (P45, P60, payslips)
✅ Salary Calculator
✅ Statutory leave calculation
✅ CIS module
✅ Automatic pension compliance
✅ National Minimum Wage warnings
✅ Absence Calendar
✅ Holiday Tracking
✅ Payrolling of benefits
✅ P11D and P11Db Generation
✅ Automated Payroll Processing
✅ Migration Service

FreshPay Software Integrations

🖇️ Xero
🖇️ Telleroo
🖇️ Penfold 
🖇️ QuickBooks
🖇️ PensionSync
🖇️ Nest
🖇️ The People’s Pension
🖇️ Now Pensions
🖇️ Smart Pensions
🖇️ Aviva
🖇️ Legal & General

Common Features

FeatureFreshPay
Unlimited PayrollsYes
Automated Tax Filing and PaymentsYes
Live Customer SupportYes
Ability to Manage Employee BenefitsYes
Employee Access to PlatformYes
Time Off TrackingYes
Handle Deductions From PayYes
Debt Repayment From PayYes
Employee Background ChecksNo
Auto Create PayslipYes
Auto Create P45Yes
Auto Create P60Yes
Pay For Hourly EmployeesYes
Bonus / Incentive PayYes
Pension FilingYes
Statutory Payments (Sick Pay, Maternity Pay, etc.)Yes
RTI CompliantYes

Final Thoughts

Choosing a payroll software isn’t just about ticking boxes, it’s about finding software that works the way you do. FreshPay combines the flexibility of cloud technology with powerful automation and friendly, accessible support.

If you’re ready to see what a smarter, simpler approach to payroll looks like, try FreshPay free for 30 days and experience the difference for yourself.

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