Wave Payroll

Wave Payroll

Freemium

Affordable payroll add-on for Wave's free accounting platform

๐Ÿ’ฐPayroll Processing

About Wave Payroll

Wave Payroll is an add-on to Wave's free accounting software. It provides full-service payroll in 14 states (tax-service states) and self-service payroll in the remaining states. Pricing is simple: $40/month base + $6/employee in tax-service states. Direct deposit, tax form preparation, and year-end reporting are included. Best for very small businesses and freelancers already using Wave for invoicing and accounting.

ยท
Updated April 2026

What's Great

  • โœ“Pairs with Wave's free accounting and invoicing software for a unified solution
  • โœ“Affordable pricing at $40/month base plus $6 per employee
  • โœ“Full-service tax filing available in 14 states
  • โœ“Direct deposit and year-end reporting included

Watch Out For

  • !Full-service tax filing only available in 14 states โ€” others require self-service
  • !Payroll features are basic compared to Gusto or ADP
  • !Limited HR and benefits capabilities beyond basic payroll
  • !Customer support options are more limited than larger payroll providers

Common Use Cases

1

Freelancer or very small business already using Wave for free accounting and invoicing

2

Sole proprietor with 1-3 employees needing the most affordable payroll add-on

3

Business in a tax-service state wanting full-service payroll integrated with Wave accounting

Pricing Model

Freemium

Free plan available. Paid plans unlock advanced features and higher limits.

Category

Payroll Processing

Full-service payroll platforms that calculate, file, and pay taxes automatically.

Tags

payrollwavefree accountingsmall businessaffordable payroll

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