The Best Payroll Software for Cleaning Companies

Omar Santana • April 24, 2025

This week we’re taking a look at payroll software for cleaning companies. It takes more than just one software program to run a cleaning company. We’re proud of everything Automaid can do, but we know we’re not the only tool in your belt. You also need software for bookkeeping and payroll.


There are a lot of payroll software options on the market, and each offers slightly different features and benefits. It can be tough to select the right one for your cleaning company with so many choices.


So we went straight to the source. We asked current Automaid users and cleaning company owners what payroll software programs they use and recommend. Today, we’re sharing their honest thoughts and experiences, so you can make an informed choice.


ADP Payroll

ADP is one of the oldest payroll providers on the market. The company got its start back in 1949 as a manual payroll processing business. With a long history in payroll processing, ADP has ample resources to offer its clients. Many ADP customers have reported that the company’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic was excellent.


ADP is a great choice if you’re planning to scale your cleaning company. They work with a lot of huge companies, so they can accommodate and support growth.


One drawback of ADP: Pricing is not straightforward. You need to speak to a salesperson to get a quote.


From the Automaid family:


“A big company [that] knows what they are doing. Pay more and get a company you can trust.”


“[ADP] has so many programs that automate everything that it’s just changed everything for me.”


Gusto Payroll

A payroll software specifically designed for small businesses, Gusto also offers health benefits—though not in all 50 states—and other HR services. Another great Gusto feature is unlimited payroll runs. Gusto is a favorite payroll software for cleaning companies among Automaid users.


Automaid users who use Gusto have shared that payroll for independent contractors is often delayed by federal holidays. Some have solved the problem by upgrading their subscription, which unlocks access to a two-day pay feature. Other Automaid users have shared that Gusto’s customer support is average.


Introductory pricing is $39 per month, plus $6 per month per employee. Gusto also offers a contractor-only option: $6 per month per contractor.


From the Automaid family:


“Gusto is awesome, and one of the most affordable payroll and workers’ comp solutions I have found so far!”


“Gusto is for sure the best company to work with.”


Paychex Payroll

Paychex is a payroll services and HR company that specializes in supporting small to medium-sized businesses. The Paychex package includes a full suite of complementary HR services, including screening and new hire reporting tools. Automaid users have reported that Paychex’s HR services are excellent.


Though Paychex pricing is not fully transparent, you can speak to a sales representative to get a quote. Plus, access to a dedicated payroll specialist is not included in the basic package. If you want that benefit, you must pay for a higher tier.


Based on our research, introductory pricing is $39 per month, plus $5 per month per employee..


From a Automaid user: “Paychex has good customer service, plus their system is easy to understand and use.”


Quickbooks Payroll

Quickbooks is an accounting software package created by Intuit that is mostly focused on small and medium businesses as well as freelancers. Many companies choose to use Quickbooks for everything since the integration is so smooth. Users can choose from a variety of extra payroll features and tools. This includes same- and next-day direct deposit, 401k options, and health benefits.


While many Automaid users are happy with Quickbooks, some voiced frustrations with the company during tax season. They shared that Quickbooks did not send in IRS forms as promised.


Introductory pricing is $45 per month, plus $4 per month per employee.


From the Automaid family:


“Quickbooks Payroll has been smooth sailing.”


“QuickBooks payroll is excellent.”


Square Payroll

Square is a financial services company that offers a wide variety of tools, including Square Payroll. If you’re already using Square for bookkeeping, their payroll services are a great choice for easy integration. They’re is also known for having a clean, user-friendly interface.


With Square, you get a pretty basic reporting feature. If you like to run highly customized, complex reports, Square may not be your best option.


Introductory pricing is $35 per month, plus $5 per month per employee. Square also offers a contractor-only option: $5 per month per contractor.


From the Automaid family:


“My team loves Square better because they integrate with Cash App and they get paid the next day.”


“I switched from gusto to square payroll and am very happy with them.


ADP, Gusto, Paychex, QuickBooks, and Square are the most popular payroll software programs among Automaid users. Others use Wave and independent service providers. But don’t hesitate to do your own research! Every payroll company has a dedicated support team whose job is to answer questions. Take your time finding the best option for you.


Want to learn more? Join the Launch27 Domination Facebook group and talk to other cleaning company owners about payroll software and more. Our users are always sharing recommendations and supporting each other.

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