What is FreshBooks Payroll?
FreshBooks Payroll is a payroll add-on built into the FreshBooks accounting platform, powered by Gusto. It lets US-based small businesses pay W-2 employees and 1099 contractors, run unlimited pay cycles, and automatically calculate and file federal and state payroll taxes, all without leaving FreshBooks. Payroll transactions sync automatically into the FreshBooks chart of accounts, so books stay up to date after every pay run.
The add-on covers direct deposit, benefits recording, and payroll tax compliance, and it is available on top of any FreshBooks accounting plan (Lite, Plus, Premium, or Select). It does not currently support paying contractors-only accounts, printing physical checks, tracking paid time off, or multiple hourly rates per employee; businesses with more advanced payroll or HR needs are directed to use the standalone Gusto app instead.
Key Features of FreshBooks Payroll
Here are the powerful features that make FreshBooks Payroll stand out from the competition. Packed with innovative tools and advanced functionalities, this software offers a range of benefits.
- Pay W-2 employees and 1099 contractors from within FreshBooks
- Unlimited payroll runs each month
- Automated federal and state payroll tax calculations
- Automatic payroll tax filing and payments
- Direct deposit for employees and contractors
- Benefits and deductions recording
- Automatic sync of payroll transactions into FreshBooks chart of accounts
- Pay run summaries with hours and earnings data
- Powered by Gusto's payroll engine and tax compliance system
FreshBooks Payroll Pricing
Here are the pricing plans for FreshBooks Payroll. Choose the plan that best fits your requirements and budget.
FreshBooks Payroll add-on
$40/month + $6/month per employee or contractor paid
Requires an existing FreshBooks accounting plan (Lite, Plus, Premium, or Select)
Base add-on fee billed after first payroll run, plus a per-active-employee/contractor usage fee for the previous month. A limited-time intro rate of $3 per team member for the first six months was offered for businesses adding Payroll by July 31, 2026 and running first payroll by August 31, 2026.
FreshBooks Payroll Specifications
Get a closer look at the technical specifications and system requirements for FreshBooks Payroll. Find out if it's compatible with your operating system and other software.
- cloud based
- web app
- ios
- android
- freelancers
- startups
- smes
- live support
- tickets
FreshBooks Payroll Videos
Alternatives of FreshBooks Payroll
AlternativesExplore alternative software options that can fulfill similar requirements as FreshBooks Payroll. Evaluate their features, pricing, and user feedback to find the perfect fit for your needs.
Full-service U.S. payroll built natively into NetSuite ERP with real-time GL posting
Simple, affordable online payroll, HR, and time tracking software for small businesses
FreshBooks Payroll Comparisons
Compare FreshBooks Payroll with other similar options available. Explore the key differences to see why it's the top choice for businesses and individuals.
Overall FreshBooks Payroll Reviews
Here's our unbiased review of FreshBooks Payroll. Discover how our team of experts rates its features, ease of use, customer support, and other aspects that contribute to its overall appeal.