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Top Rated Payroll Software with W-2 Preparation in 2026

Verified reviewer profile picture
Verified reviewer profile picture

All user reviews are verified by in-house moderators and provider data by our software research team.  Learn more

Last updated: March 2026

W-2 preparation streamlines the process of generating, distributing, and storing year-end tax forms, ensuring compliance with legal requirements. It simplifies tax filing for both employers and employees by providing accurate and timely documentation. Our reviewers in payroll software rated this feature as important.

10 Best Payroll Software with W-2 Preparation

Product
User rating
Starting price
Paycom logo
4.4
(1.1K)
Empty state illustration for "No pricing info"

No pricing info

QuickBooks Online logo
4.3
(8.3K)
38
flat rate/per month
Paychex Flex logo
4.2
(1.7K)
Empty state illustration for "No pricing info"

No pricing info

Rippling logo
4.9
(4.6K)
8
per user/per month
Patriot Payroll logo
4.8
(3.6K)
17
flat rate/per month
BambooHR logo
4.6
(3.1K)
10
per user/per month
Gusto logo
4.6
(4.1K)
49
other/per month
ADP Workforce Now logo
4.4
(7.1K)
Empty state illustration for "No pricing info"

No pricing info

Paylocity logo
4.3
(1.8K)
Empty state illustration for "No pricing info"

No pricing info

Dayforce HCM logo
4.3
(1K)
Empty state illustration for "No pricing info"

No pricing info

See other top Payroll products with w-2 preparation

How we picked the 10 top rated products

We chose the high-performing solutions on this list based on verified user ratings on our site. Depending on available data, qualifying products either had to be among the most user-reviewed or the most searched-for products in the Payroll software category. They also needed to have sufficient reviews about w-2 preparation, have a minimum user rating of 3 out of 5 for that feature, and show evidence of U.S. market presence. We then added a distinction for up to three products based on our proprietary ratings and reviews: Highest rated, Highly rated for w-2 preparation, and Highly rated for free version. Sponsorship or client status has no influence on the selection of these products, but it may impact the order in which products appear.

Details for the 10 best products

Paycom logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(60)
3-4(391)
5(722)
Key Features
Payroll Management4.5
Direct Deposit4.8

User insights about the w-2 preparation feature

Users report that Paycom's W-2 preparation is convenient and efficient, with options for electronic distribution and easy access for employees. They appreciate the automated process, timely notifications, and the ability to review and print W-2s. Some users mention the need for clearer instructions, but overall, they find the process straightforward and helpful.

See related user reviews

“I can find my W-2 forms (as well as other tax forms) direct online in the paycom portal. It is important to have ease when finding these tax documents.”
KO

Kaleigh O.

Floater Teacher

“Alerts sent out when W2's need to be reviewed. Options for distribution and sorting”
MP

Michael P.

Sr. Payroll Manager

Starting price
Empty state illustration for "No pricing info"

No pricing info

Pros and Cons based on 1,173 verified reviews

Comprehensive HR management

Efficient onboarding process

Convenient paystub management

Intuitive navigation

Robust mobile accessibility

Complex password management

Tedious login security

Slow issue resolution

Hidden costs and overbilling

Limited reporting capabilities

See pros and cons details
QuickBooks Online logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(456)
3-4(3,151)
5(4,777)
Key Features
Payroll Management4.3
Direct Deposit4.7

User insights about the w-2 preparation feature

Reviewers appreciate QuickBooks Online's W-2 preparation for its simplicity and automation. They highlight the ease of generating, printing, and filing W-2s with just a few clicks. Users value the timely availability, electronic access for employees, and the integration with payroll data, which streamlines the process and ensures accuracy.

See related user reviews

“I like the W-2 Preparation in QuickBooks Online when using its automatic payroll processing services to prepare and file our W-2 forms with the IRS.”
MH

Mark H.

Operations Manager

“This feature removes any complication in tax prepration because it is connected to your payroll entries in the books and automaticslly computes and generates accurate reports for filing. I can also reprint my old forms because they are kept in the system.”
KS

Kit S.

Resulter

Starting price
38flat rate /
per month
Pros and Cons based on 8,384 verified reviews

Cloud-based accessibility

Ideal for small businesses

Seamless integrations

Comprehensive accounting features

Efficient tax management

Frequent bugs and crashes

Limited desktop features

Recurring costs and price increases

Inadequate customer support

Complicated transaction management

See pros and cons details
Paychex Flex logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(138)
3-4(765)
5(880)
Key Features
Payroll Management4.3
Direct Deposit4.7

User insights about the w-2 preparation feature

Users find Paychex Flex's W-2 preparation convenient and reliable. They appreciate the automated process, timely distribution, and easy access for employees. Reviewers value the ability to print and mail W-2s directly, as well as the overall simplicity and accuracy of the process. Some users mention occasional delays, but overall, they find it efficient and helpful.

See related user reviews

“W2 preparation is automated done with ease. Also updating employee information such as change of address and tax deductions are a simple almost timeless process. ”
CH

Cindy H.

Human Resources

“W-2 are done on time and professional. They mail directly to my employees and past employees so I don't have to be the middle man. Love that my employees can go on to the self-service online and print their W-2 whenever they need it too!”
AP

Ardith P.

Owner/Manager

Starting price
Empty state illustration for "No pricing info"

No pricing info

Pros and Cons based on 1,783 verified reviews

Convenient pay stub access

Streamlined paycheck management

Comprehensive HR management

Remote access convenience

Efficient employee tracking

Slow performance speed

Inconsistent issue management

Complicated login process

Inefficient customer calls

Unreliable clocking system

See pros and cons details
Rippling logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(48)
3-4(418)
5(4,134)
Key Features
Payroll Management4.8
Direct Deposit4.9

User insights about the w-2 preparation feature

Reviewers appreciate Rippling's W-2 preparation for its ease of use, quick access, and timely availability. They find it convenient to download and view documents, with many noting the automated and error-free process. Users also value the electronic access for employees and the integration with tax services, which simplifies tax season significantly.

See related user reviews

“No need to worry about this! Rippling will have !-2 forms ready for preview a few weeks before sending the forms out. They have the option to mail to your employees (for a fee, of course) or the option for them to receive via email. Employees can also access their W-2 via Rippling's portal”
SC

Sol C.

Operations Manager

“The alert that my W-2 is ready prepares me to be on time and prepared to met my tax criteria each year. Rippling always gets me this document in enough time to prepare for tax season. ”
CT

Chandler T.

PR Account Executive

Starting price
8per user /
per month
Pros and Cons based on 4,600 verified reviews

Intuitive navigation

Intuitive user interface

Streamlined onboarding process

Comprehensive HR management

Centralized accessibility

Limited reporting capabilities

Inconvenient login authentication

Concerns over hidden fees

Performance issues

See pros and cons details
Patriot Payroll logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(31)
3-4(497)
5(3,096)
Key Features
Payroll Management4.8
Direct Deposit4.8

User insights about the w-2 preparation feature

Users find Patriot Payroll's W-2 preparation incredibly simple and time-saving. They highlight the ease of generating, printing, and distributing W-2s, with minimal manual intervention required. Reviewers appreciate the automated notifications and the ability for employees to access their W-2s electronically, which reduces the administrative burden and ensures timely compliance.
Verified reviewer profile picture
Verified reviewer profile picture

See related user reviews

“Patriot Payroll has simplifies our w-2 preparation by automatically generating w-2 forms for our employee. This feature Streamline the process, ensuring accurate and compliant reporting ”
Verified reviewer profile picture

Hadasseh A.

Human Resources

“The best part of the W-2 preparation is that our employees can "opt-in" for portal access to view and download their own. This takes one less task off our year-end list of things to do.”
Verified reviewer profile picture

Martin G.

Vice President

Starting price
17flat rate /
per month
Pros and Cons based on 3,624 verified reviews
Verified reviewer profile picture
Verified reviewer profile picture

Ideal for small businesses

Responsive support services

Significant cost savings

Excellent customer support

Quick question response

Complex payroll deductions

Challenging account management

Slow direct deposit process

Inadequate print management

Inefficient time tracking

See pros and cons details
BambooHR logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(33)
3-4(1,050)
5(2,024)
Key Features
Payroll Management4.2
Direct Deposit4.8

User insights about the w-2 preparation feature

Users highlight BambooHR's W-2 preparation for its automation and ease of use. They appreciate the timely generation and distribution of W-2s, as well as the ability for employees to access their tax documents online. Reviewers also value the accuracy and reliability of the process, which reduces the administrative burden and ensures compliance.

See related user reviews

“W-2 preparation in BambooHR is crucial because it ensures accurate reporting of employees' earnings and taxes withheld, complying with legal requirements and simplifying tax filing for both employers and employees.”
NP

Niyas P.

finance

“W-2 Preparation feature helps simplify the process of preparing and distributing W-2 forms to employees. Here are some of the most interesting things about this feature:Automated W-2 Preparation: BambooHR automates the process of preparing W-2 forms, which saves time and reduces the risk of errors.Easy W-2 Distribution: BambooHR allows you to easily distribute W-2 forms to your employees electronically, which eliminates the need for paper forms and saves on printing and postage costs.Comprehensive W-2 Reports: BambooHR generates comprehensive W-2 reports that include all the necessary tax information for each employee, which helps ensure compliance with federal and state regulations.Customizable W-2 Settings: BambooHR's W-2 Preparation feature is customizable, so you can set up W-2 processing according to your organization's unique needs, such as tax and deduction settings, pay schedules, and more.Employee Self-Service: Employees can access their W-2 forms online through the Employee Self-Service portal, which reduces the administrative burden on HR teams.Mobile Access: BambooHR's mobile app allows employees to access their W-2 information on-the-go, which enhances convenience and flexibility.Dedicated Support: BambooHR's customer support team is dedicated to assisting with any W-2 related questions and concerns.”
ZI

Zubairu I.

Administrator

Starting price
10per user /
per month
Pros and Cons based on 3,107 verified reviews

Comprehensive HR management

Efficient onboarding process

Centralized employee management

Intuitive user interface

Frequent product glitches

Limited payroll management

High and escalating costs

See pros and cons details
Gusto logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(114)
3-4(1,031)
5(3,045)
Key Features
Payroll Management4.6
Direct Deposit4.7

User insights about the w-2 preparation feature

Reviewers feel that Gusto's W-2 preparation is seamless and automated, saving significant time and effort. They appreciate the early availability of electronic W-2s, easy access for employees, and the comprehensive handling of tax documents. Users also value the timely notifications and the overall simplicity of the process, making tax season less stressful.
Verified reviewer profile picture

See related user reviews

“Gusto w-2 preparation has been vital for our IRS reporting and tax compliance, and it has also ensured the timely documentation of our employee earnings and tax withholdings for annual tax filings ”
Verified reviewer profile picture

Adebayo E.

DIRECTOR

“Gusto makes W-2 preparation as easy as it gets. Every employee can download their own W-2 from their individual account plus Gusto can mail a paper copy to every employee past and present. We always dreaded W-2 time of year but it is not an issue any longer. ”
LL

Lianna L.

Manager

Starting price
49other /
per month
Pros and Cons based on 4,190 verified reviews
Verified reviewer profile picture

Intuitive and clean interface

Seamless onboarding process

Comprehensive HR management

Easy navigation

Efficient payroll management

Inadequate phone support

Limited reporting capabilities

Slow issue resolution

Account management challenges

See pros and cons details
ADP Workforce Now logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(201)
3-4(2,800)
5(4,164)
Key Features
Payroll Management4.6
Direct Deposit4.8

User insights about the w-2 preparation feature

Reviewers indicate that ADP Workforce Now makes W-2 preparation straightforward and efficient. They value the ability to access, download, and print W-2s both digitally and physically. Users appreciate the automated process, timely availability, and the convenience of having all tax documents in one place, which simplifies tax filing for both employees and administrators.

See related user reviews

“ADP provides W-2s for your employees, which is essential for filing taxes. The forms get delivered to you directly for you to pass out to your employees. There is also an ONLINE PORTAL for your employees to view and download their W2 if needed.”
KC

Katie C.

Admin

“W-2 preparation is made easy in ADP workforce and once again allows the administrators to rest easy that these forms will be prepared without much stress on them to have to write them all out themselves. ”
RS

Renata S.

Science Teacher

Starting price
Empty state illustration for "No pricing info"

No pricing info

Pros and Cons based on 7,165 verified reviews

Detailed paycheck insights

Efficient payroll processing

Comprehensive HR solutions

Convenient tax handling

Helpful learning resources

Frequent password changes

Multiple login problems

Slow support response

Slow website performance

High cost and hidden fees

See pros and cons details
Paylocity logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(67)
3-4(808)
5(945)
Key Features
Payroll Management4.5
Direct Deposit4.8

User insights about the w-2 preparation feature

Users report that Paylocity's W-2 preparation is user-friendly and efficient. They value the automated process, timely availability, and easy access for employees. Reviewers appreciate the ability to download and print W-2s, as well as the support provided for any issues. Some mention initial navigation challenges, but overall, they find the process straightforward and helpful.

See related user reviews

“When I needed my W-2 months later, I was able to find it without issues and download it to my PC. Even after my time with the employer that used Paylocity, I was still able to access my records as often as needed. ”
RR

Richard R.

COVID-19 Contact Tracer

“Very nice that it's automated and allows employees to access W2's as soon as they are available which is very fast!”
HW

Heather W.

Loan Specialist

Starting price
Empty state illustration for "No pricing info"

No pricing info

Pros and Cons based on 1,820 verified reviews

Comprehensive HR management

Efficient employee tracking

Flexible customization options

Seamless integration options

Robust payroll management

Cumbersome login security

Frequent technical issues

Inadequate customer support

Challenging implementation process

Confusing user interface

See pros and cons details
Dayforce HCM logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(28)
3-4(526)
5(499)
Key Features
Payroll Management4.5
Direct Deposit4.6

User insights about the w-2 preparation feature

Reviewers indicate that Dayforce HCM simplifies W-2 preparation with its automated and accurate process. They appreciate the timely availability of W-2s, the ability to review and edit before finalizing, and the overall ease of access for employees. Users find the system dependable and helpful in ensuring compliance and reducing administrative workload.

See related user reviews

“Employees want their W2's to be correct and received on time. I love that we can provide our employees with their W2's long before the deadline of 1/31 and that we can view these throughout the year for accuracy ”
AS

Amber S.

Manager, Payroll and HRIS

“W-2 perforation in Dayforce is simple. It is automated and autofills employees data. All they need to do is electronically sign.”
MR

Melissa R.

Human Resources Assistant

Starting price
Empty state illustration for "No pricing info"

No pricing info

Pros and Cons based on 1,053 verified reviews

Comprehensive HR management

Efficient payroll management

Easy learning curve

Integrated modules

Intuitive user interface

High costs and hidden fees

Slow loading times

High cost

Slow issue resolution

Difficult implementation

See pros and cons details

Other Top Rated Payroll Software with W-2 Preparation in 2026

Deel logo

Deel

End-to-end global workforce platform.

visit website
Process payroll in 130+ countries and 200+ currencies from one system. Centralize tax, compliance, and reporting with support from in-house payroll specialists.

Read more about Deel

Users also considered
Rippling logo
Category Leaders

Workforce management across HR, finance, and IT. 

Rippling runs payroll in minutes with a 100% error-free guarantee, compliance automation, and configurability. No manual work needed.

Read more about Rippling

Users also considered
Patriot Payroll logo
Category Leaders

Cloud-based accounting and payroll software for businesses

Basic Payroll: $17/month + $4 per employee or contractor. You run payroll and handle your tax filings.

Save your time and money with Patriot Software's online Basic Payroll. Run payroll in three simple steps. Free direct deposit, and employee portal.

Read more about Patriot Payroll

Users also considered
ADP Workforce Now logo

Cloud-based human capital management (HCM) suite

ADP Workforce Now is a cloud-based human capital management, talent management, and benefits software built for midsized and large businesses.

Read more about ADP Workforce Now

Users also considered
QuickBooks Online logo

Accounting and business management software

QuickBooks Online is a complete payroll solution which allows users to manage all their financial data in one platform, with real-time dashboards and reports.

Read more about QuickBooks Online

Users also considered
Gusto logo

Gusto is the all-in-one HR platform for growing businesses.

With Gusto, you get modern HR features like effortless payroll, benefits, hiring, management resources—and more. Gusto is proud to serve more than 400,000 businesses in the US with a single trusted system, competitive compensation tools, and expert guidance to help you empower your team.

Read more about Gusto

Users also considered
FreshBooks logo

Invoice and accounting software tailored to small businesses

FreshBooks is accounting software that helps small business perform accounting tasks, conduct invoicing, manage expenses, and more.

Read more about FreshBooks

Users also considered
BambooHR logo

HR software to manage people, payroll and benefits

BambooHR® makes running your payroll easy, quick, and stress-free. By offering a single source of data, comprehensive payroll reporting, superior customer support, and full-service tax filing, you’ll save time and worry on payroll—setting you free to focus on other important initiatives.

Read more about BambooHR

Users also considered
Xero logo

Cloud-based accounting software for small businesses

Xero's payroll tool enables you to track employee payroll information, generate payslips and reports, automatically update the general ledger, and more.

Read more about Xero

Users also considered
Buddy Punch logo

Effortless Time Tracking, Scheduling & Payroll Management

Buddy Punch accelerates payroll prep—capture employee hours accurately, enforce breaks and overtime rules, then export ready-to-use reports directly to QuickBooks, ADP, Paychex, and more for error-free payroll runs.

Read more about Buddy Punch

Users also considered
Paycor logo

All-in-on HR solution built to modernize people management

Paycor’s all-in-one, cloud-based human capital management (HCM) platform modernizes every aspect of people management, from recruiting, onboarding and payroll to career development and retention.

Read more about Paycor

Users also considered
Workday HCM logo

Human capital management system

Workday HCM is an HR solution that helps organizations manage the global workforce. The system supports companies of all sizes, enabling organizations to comply with local regulations. Workday HCM features embedded AI insights that give organizations an understanding of the workforce. Using machine learning, the software enables teams to analyze employee data to deliver personalized recommendations, helping HR teams make informed decisions about people.

Read more about Workday HCM

Users also considered
RUN Powered by ADP logo

Payroll, Tax Filing, HR and Timekeeping

An intuitive interface makes paying your people easy and fast. In addition, AI-enabled tech streamlines your payroll and HR tasks, and flags time-consuming payroll mistakes before they happen.

Read more about RUN Powered by ADP

Users also considered
Paylocity logo

One unified platform for HR, Finance, and IT.

Paylocity’s payroll software automates pay, catches errors, and streamlines tasks. Run payroll in minutes, ensure compliance, and integrate with benefits. Help employees get paid accurately and on time, with on-demand access to earned wages.

Read more about Paylocity

Users also considered
OnTheClock logo

Cloud-based employee time clock and payroll application

Our time clock offers built-in payroll as well as payroll integration with top payroll software providers such as Gusto, QuickBooks, Thomson Reuters, ADP, Paychex and more! Simply export your employee time card data for an easy and convenient payroll process for you and your accountant.

Read more about OnTheClock

Users also considered
Paycom logo
Category Leaders

The only HR and payroll software built on a single database

Beti®, Paycom’s automated payroll experience, identifies errors and guides employees to fix them before submission. This results in improved accuracy, reduced employer liability and increased payroll oversight — all while giving employees greater paycheck confidence.

Read more about Paycom

Users also considered
QuickBooks Payroll logo

Small business payroll platform

QuickBooks Payroll is a cloud-based payroll solution for small businesses which offers automatic payroll tax calculations, integrated time tracking, same day direct deposit, real-time data updates, tax form preparation and filing, and an online employee portal to streamline the payroll process

Read more about QuickBooks Payroll

Users also considered
Justworks logo
Category Leaders

Payroll, benefits, HR, and compliance all in one place.

Justworks, the fastest growing HR technology company, simplifies the payroll process so entrepreneurs can easily pay their employees. Justworks features seamless automated payroll, one-off payments, W-2 generation, PTO tracking, and reporting — all in one system.

Read more about Justworks

Users also considered
Paychex Flex logo

A Simple Approach to HR, Payroll, and Benefits.

Our payroll software helps calculate wages, manage deductions, and process payroll runs. We integrate payroll with time tracking, benefits, and HR systems to reduce errors and improve efficiency.

Read more about Paychex Flex

Users also considered
OnPay logo
Category Leaders

Cloud-based payroll and HR software for businesses

OnPay is an easy-to-use, cloud-based software for small and mid-sized businesses to simplify payroll, automate taxes, and manage HR backed by reliable, expert support.

Read more about OnPay

Users also considered
Square Payroll logo

Cloud-based payroll processing solution

Square Payroll is a cloud-based U.S. solution that handles federal and state payroll taxes including withholdings, payments and filings

Read more about Square Payroll

Users also considered
APS Payroll logo

Your Workforce Partner

APS delivers payroll services with full-service tax compliance and a unified HCM platform. Designed for small, midsize, and larger organizations, our cost-effective SaaS solution makes payroll processing simple, accurate, and stress-free.

Read more about APS Payroll

Users also considered
Dayforce HCM logo

The AI-powered people platform

Dayforce is a single, unified HCM platform that simplifies HR, payroll, benefits, workforce management, talent, and analytics. Designed to boost productivity, enhance decision-making, and ensure compliance, Dayforce helps organizations unlock their people potential with simplicity at scale.

Read more about Dayforce HCM

Users also considered
UKG Ready logo

HR payroll & workforce management platform

UKG Ready combines HR, payroll, talent management, time tracking, and scheduling into one platform to streamline workforce operations. It automates administrative tasks, centralizes employee data, and supports compliance with automated workflows and updates. Features include benefits administration, time and attendance tracking, scheduling, performance management, and analytics for workforce insights and benchmarking.

Read more about UKG Ready

Users also considered
TriNet HR Plus logo

HR | Onboarding | Payroll | Benefits | Compliance

“Three-click payroll” automatically syncs data across your platform, resulting in fewer data-entry errors and faster payroll processing.

Read more about TriNet HR Plus

Users also considered

Key features for Payroll software

Based on GetApp's analysis of verified user reviews collected between July 2021 and August 2024.

  • Payroll Management: Reviewers highlight the automation of payroll calculations, tax remittances, and direct deposits, ensuring timely and accurate payments. It also offers comprehensive reporting and compliance with local laws. 97% of reviewers rated this feature as important or highly important.
  • Direct Deposit: Users appreciate the convenience and efficiency of direct deposits, allowing for secure, timely payments directly into employees' bank accounts, eliminating the need for manual handling. 96% of reviewers rated this feature as important or highly important.
  • Payroll Reporting: Reviewers value the detailed and customizable payroll reports, aiding in financial analysis, compliance, and decision-making. It provides insights into payroll expenses, taxes, and employee earnings. 94% of reviewers rated this feature as important or highly important.
  • Tax Compliance: Reviewers emphasize the importance of automated tax calculations and timely filings to avoid penalties. It ensures compliance with federal, state, and local tax laws, reducing administrative burdens. 92% of reviewers rated this feature as important or highly important.
  • Employee Database: Users appreciate the centralized storage of employee information, aiding in HR management and compliance. It allows easy access to personal details, employment history, and performance data. 86% of reviewers rated this feature as important or highly important.