eBacon vs Payroll4Free

User reviews from the past year suggest that eBacon, particularly its certified payroll processing, is a significant time-saver, with some users claiming a reduction from days to just 20 minutes for specific tasks. This efficiency stems from eBacon's intuitive design and robust reporting capabilities, which streamline complex payroll processes, especially for construction companies dealing with prevailing wage requirements. Users specifically praise eBacon's superiority over competitors like Paychex in understanding and managing certified payroll, highlighting a key differentiator. This specialized focus is crucial for businesses operating in sectors with stringent compliance regulations, as accurate and timely payroll processing is paramount for maintaining employee morale and avoiding legal ramifications. However, while eBacon receives accolades for its core functionalities, some users express that certain aspects need improvement. For instance, the trust account feature, while innovative, is reportedly prone to glitches and lacks user-friendly clarity. Additionally, limited customization options and the absence of benefits administration in specific geographical areas, like California, are drawbacks for some users. Despite these areas for improvement, eBacon is generally lauded for its efficiency and effectiveness in handling intricate payroll tasks. Its strength lies in simplifying certified payroll, making it particularly well-suited for construction companies or businesses navigating the complexities of prevailing wage requirements.

Is Payroll4Free truly free, or is there a hidden cost? User reviews from the past year suggest Payroll4Free delivers on its promise of a free and easy-to-use payroll solution, particularly for small businesses with 25 or fewer employees. Users praise its intuitive interface, highlighting the guided account setup wizard and straightforward navigation. They appreciate the software's ability to handle both employee and contractor payments, simplifying the payment process. The automatic tax calculations are a major plus, easing the burden of payroll tax compliance. Some users even compared their manual calculations to Payroll4Free's reports, finding them to be spot-on. However, the "free" aspect comes with caveats. The software is ad-supported, which some users find intrusive. While the free version allows for 12 pay runs per year, exceeding this limit requires an upgrade. Additional fees apply for features like direct deposit, contractor payments, and multi-state employee payments. Users also point out limitations in functionality, noting that Payroll4Free is best suited for basic payroll needs. Larger companies or those requiring advanced features like robust reporting, automation, and analytics might find Payroll4Free lacking. Alternatives like OnPay, with its base price of $40 per month plus $6 per employee, offer more comprehensive features. In conclusion, Payroll4Free is a viable option for startups and small businesses with limited budgets and straightforward payroll requirements. Its ease of use, free basic features, and accurate tax calculations make it an attractive choice for those seeking a no-frills payroll solution. However, businesses with more complex needs or a larger workforce might find themselves outgrowing Payroll4Free's capabilities and needing to consider paid alternatives.