Choosing invoice and payroll software: a checklist
Some tools do invoicing, some do payroll, and some do both with accounting. Use this checklist to compare them on what matters for your business.
Updated October 30, 2026.
Invoicing features
- Branded invoice templates and automatic numbering
- Online payment links for cards and bank transfers, and their fees
- Recurring invoices and automatic reminders
- Estimates that convert to invoices
- Sales tax handling for your state
Payroll features
- Federal, state and local tax calculation, deposits and filings done for you
- Year-end W-2 and 1099 preparation
- Direct deposit and an employee self-service portal
- New-hire reporting and benefits deductions
- A tax-penalty guarantee if the provider makes a filing error
Before you buy
- What does it cost per month plus per employee or contractor?
- Does it connect to your accounting software and bank?
- Can you export your data if you leave?
- What support is included, and when is it available?