Patriot Software review (2026): pricing, fees and who it's for
Low-cost online payroll; the Full Service plan files and deposits your payroll taxes.
Good fit if
Budget-minded small teams paid in one state
Pick something else if
You need next-day direct deposit, evening support, or a full app for owners.
What we like
- Full Service payroll is $37/mo + $5 per worker paid.
- 30 days free, then 50% off for three months.
- Only the base fee is charged in months with no payroll.
- Free US-based phone, chat and email support, M-F 9-7 ET.
Watch out for
- Each extra state costs $12/month on Full Service.
- Basic plan doesn't file taxes; you file and deposit them yourself.
- No owner app; employee app rated 2.4/5 on App Store (30 ratings).
Patriot Software pricing
| Plan | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Payroll | $17/mo + $4/worker | You file and deposit payroll taxes yourself |
| Full Service Payroll | $37/mo + $5/worker | Patriot files federal, state, local taxes; 50% off 3 months |
Prices as published on Oct 4, 2026. Confirm on their site; promotions change often.
What payroll will cost you
| Payroll | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|
| OnPay | $67 | $804 |
| Gusto | $67 | $804 |
| Patriot Software | $52 | $624 |
| RUN Powered by ADP | Quote only | |
Cheapest full-service plan, list prices, before promotions. State registration and workers' comp are extra.
The details
| Base price | $37/mo Full Service ($17 Basic, no tax filing) |
|---|---|
| Per person | $5/worker paid ($4 Basic) |
| Contractors only | No separate plan; Basic $17/mo + $4/contractor paid |
| Files payroll taxes for you | Full Service plan only |
| Workers in several states | $12/mo per extra state |
| Direct deposit speed | 4-day; 2-day for qualifying customers |
| Workers' comp | Pay-as-you-go via NEXT Insurance (free integration) |
| Benefits | Health via SimplyInsured; 401(k) via Vestwell |
| Time tracking | Add-on $6/mo + $2/employee |
| HR tools | Add-on $6/mo + $2/employee |
| W-2s and 1099s | W-2s included; 1099 e-file optional (fees on Basic) |
| Setup fee | None listed; free setup help |
| Free trial | 30 days + 50% off for 3 months |
Before you sign up
You'll need
- EIN (employer tax ID)
- State payroll tax account numbers
- Bank account for direct deposit
- Credit or debit card for Patriot's fees
Do this first: You'll need your EIN, your state withholding and unemployment account numbers (or pay for registration), a business bank account, and workers' comp in most states.
What users say in public ratings
Seen on Oct 4, 2026. App store ratings mostly reflect the app; Trustpilot leans toward billing and support stories.
Patriot Software alternatives
- 7.7/10OnPaySmall teams across states wanting one flat price · From $49/mo Patriot Software vs OnPay
- 7.3/10GustoSingle-state teams that want published, month-to-month pricing · From $49/mo Patriot Software vs Gusto
- 6.3/10RUN Powered by ADPOwners who want 24/7 phone help and room to grow · Price on request Patriot Software vs RUN Powered by ADP
Questions
How much does Patriot Software cost?
Basic Payroll: $17/mo + $4/worker; Full Service Payroll: $37/mo + $5/worker. Free trial: 30 days.
Does Patriot Software have a free plan?
No free plan, but there's a free trial of 30 days.
Does Patriot Software offer help in Spanish?
We couldn't confirm Spanish support. Ask them before you sign up.
What do I need to sign up for Patriot Software?
EIN (employer tax ID); State payroll tax account numbers; Bank account for direct deposit; Credit or debit card for Patriot's fees.
Is Patriot Software good for a new business?
It fits budget-minded small teams paid in one state. Pick something else if you need next-day direct deposit, evening support, or a full app for owners.
What are the alternatives to Patriot Software?
OnPay (Small teams across states wanting one flat price); Gusto (Single-state teams that want published, month-to-month pricing); RUN Powered by ADP (Owners who want 24/7 phone help and room to grow).
Sources
- patriotsoftware.com/pricing/
- patriotsoftware.com/payroll/pricing/
- apps.apple.com/us/app/my-patriot/id6447312727
- play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.patriotsoftware.mobile.mypatriot
Checked Oct 4, 2026. Something out of date? Tell us. Our score is calculated from public facts; partners can't pay for a better one.