Payroll for 1099 Contractors Only (2026 Guide)
Payroll for 1099 contractors only in 2026: when you need software, top picks vs Melio and BILL AP tools, 1099-NEC filing rules, and per-contractor costs.
Compare the best payroll software for small businesses. In-depth reviews, pricing breakdowns, and head-to-head comparisons of Gusto, ADP, OnPay, Patriot, and more - written by a practicing Enrolled Agent.
Payroll for 1099 contractors only in 2026: when you need software, top picks vs Melio and BILL AP tools, 1099-NEC filing rules, and per-contractor costs.
The cheapest full-service payroll starts around $42/mo with Patriot. An EA compares Patriot, Gusto, OnPay, and QuickBooks on real cost at 1-10 employees.
Have exactly one W-2 employee? An EA's honest picks for the best payroll software for one employee in 2026, with real one-person costs and how to choose.
Gusto vs OnPay in 2026: same $49+$6 headline price, but multi-state changes the math. EA-neutral pricing at 5/10/25 employees, features, and verdict.
Gusto pricing 2026 by an EA: Simple $49/mo + $6/person, Plus $80, Premium $180. Real totals, add-ons, fees, and plan picks.
Gusto vs QuickBooks Payroll in 2026: pricing, payroll and accounting integration, HR features, tax filing, and which platform wins for small businesses.
Patriot vs OnPay in 2026: payroll pricing, tax filing, HR and benefits, customer support, and which affordable payroll service wins for small business.
Patriot Software payroll review for 2026: pricing from $17/mo, full-service tax filing, free direct deposit, HR add-ons, and pros/cons for small business.
OnPay review for 2026: payroll, HR, benefits, pricing ($49/mo + $6/employee), multi-state support, and how it compares to Gusto and ADP.
OnPay vs QuickBooks Payroll in 2026: pricing, full-service tax filing, HR tools, QBO integration, and which payroll platform fits your small business.