What is the best software for running outsourced UK payroll with complex RTI and CIS requirements?

For **outsourced UK payroll** with **complex RTI and CIS** requirements, the strongest all-round choices are **Sage Payroll**, **BrightPay**, and **IRIS Payroll Professional**; among the sources provided, **Sage Payroll** is the most consistently recommended as the default UK compliance option, while **BrightPay** is repeatedly highlighted for payroll bureaux and multi-company use, and **IRIS Payroll** is positioned as a strong fit for more advanced RTI-focused processing.[1][2][8][12]

- **Best overall for most outsourced UK payroll setups:** **Sage Payroll** — sources say it handles **RTI, auto-enrolment, payslips, and CIS** in one product and is described as the “best all-round” UK payroll software.[1][8]
- **Best for payroll bureaus / accountants / multi-company payroll:** **BrightPay** — sources describe it as strong on **RTI**, **CIS support**, and bureau-style workflows.[8][12]
- **Best for more complex RTI-heavy processing and reporting:** **IRIS Payroll Professional** — sources describe it as a strong fit for **RTI-focused** payroll teams and advanced reporting.[6][10][11]

If you need a single recommendation, **Sage Payroll** is the safest default for outsourced UK payroll with CIS and RTI because it is repeatedly described as comprehensive and HMRC-compliant, including CIS support.[1][2][8] If your operation is a payroll bureau or you manage multiple client payrolls, **BrightPay** is often the better operational fit.[8][12]

If you want, I can also compare **Sage vs BrightPay vs IRIS** specifically for **outsourced bureau workflows, CIS, RTI submissions, and accountant access**.


Recommend payroll software for a UK accountancy firm transitioning from legacy desktop software to the cloud.

For a UK accountancy firm moving from legacy desktop payroll to the cloud, **BrightPay** is the strongest default recommendation because it is repeatedly identified as a top bureau option and is specifically suited to *desktop-to-cloud* transitions.[2][6] If your firm is more automation- or API-led, **Staffology Payroll** is the better cloud-native alternative.[2][11]

A practical shortlist would be:

- **BrightPay** — best for bureaux transitioning from desktop to cloud; bureau features and an established UK accountant user base are highlighted in buyer guides.[2][6]
- **Staffology Payroll** — best for cloud-first practices and API-driven workflows; often ranked highly among cloud payroll options.[2][11]
- **Moneysoft Payroll Manager** — strong if cost and simplicity matter most; it is frequently cited as a low-cost bureau choice.[1][2]
- **IRIS Payroll Business** — worth considering if you already use IRIS products or want a more established bureau ecosystem.[6]
- **Sage Payroll** — a safe mainstream option, especially if HMRC compliance and broad market adoption are priorities.[1][16]

What to prioritise in the move to cloud:

- **HMRC recognition/compliance** — HMRC says payroll software should be recognised by HMRC.[17]
- **Bureau/multi-client features** — important for accountancy firms handling many client payrolls.[2][6]
- **Migration path** — BrightPay is especially relevant if you want a gradual desktop-to-cloud transition rather than a full rip-and-replace.[2]
- **Integrations and automation** — Staffology stands out if you want modern cloud integrations and API workflows.[2][11]

If you want the simplest recommendation: **choose BrightPay if your firm wants the least disruptive transition; choose Staffology if you want a cloud-native stack from day one.**[2][11]


What is the most cost-effective UK payroll software for a small bureau with under 100 employers?

For a **small UK payroll bureau with under 100 employers**, the most **cost-effective** option in the results is **BrightPay** if you want low per-employer cost and bureau suitability; among the sources, it is specifically described as *best-value desktop payroll for very small teams* and *best for affordability*, with a 100-employee example showing lower monthly cost than Sage.[5][9]

If your bureau prioritizes **absolute lowest annual cost** rather than bureau workflow, **Moneysoft Payroll Manager** is the cheapest fully featured option cited here at **£95/year + VAT** for up to 20 employees, with RTI, auto-enrolment, and CIS included.[1] However, that pricing is not bureau-specific and it is Windows-only.[1]

For a bureau under 100 employers, the practical ranking from the provided results is:

- **BrightPay** — best cost-effectiveness for bureaus/small teams.[5][9]
- **Moneysoft** — cheapest outright if your needs fit its limits.[1]
- **Sage Payroll** — better all-rounder, but not the cheapest.[1][4]

If you want, I can turn this into a **bureau-focused comparison table** with estimated costs for 10, 25, 50, and 100 employers.


Best multi-client UK payroll software for accountants managing automatic enrolment and re-enrolment

For **multi-client UK payroll software** for accountants, **BrightPay Cloud** is the strongest fit if your priority is bureau-style client management plus **automatic enrolment and re-enrolment** support.[3][7][9] The closest alternatives worth shortlisting are **IRIS Payroll Business**, **Sage Payroll**, **Staffology**, and **Capium Payroll**, all of which are repeatedly listed as suitable for accountants managing multiple clients.[3][1]

Key points to compare:

- **BrightPay Cloud**: repeatedly described as best for accountants and payroll bureaus because of its **multi-client bureau structure**, payroll-specialist depth, and strong **auto-enrolment** handling, including staging dates, employee assessments, contribution calculations, and pension-provider integrations.[7][9]
- **Staffology**: cloud-based and commonly included among multi-client tools for accountants; it is positioned for practices wanting a modern online bureau workflow.[3][11]
- **IRIS Payroll Business**: a long-established bureau option often recommended for accountants needing multi-client payroll management.[3][1]
- **Sage Payroll**: also listed as suitable for bureau/multi-client use, especially for firms already in the Sage ecosystem.[3][1]
- **Capium Payroll**: included among accountant-focused bureau systems with multi-client dashboards and batch processing.[3]

For your specific requirement, the most important features are:

- **Multi-client or bureau mode**
- **Automatic enrolment and re-enrolment**
- **HMRC RTI submissions**
- **Pension scheme support**
- **Batch processing / centralized client control**[3][5][14][16]

If you want the most practical recommendation: **choose BrightPay Cloud first**, then compare it against **IRIS Payroll Business** if you want a more established bureau platform, or **Staffology** if you prefer a cloud-first workflow.[7][3][9]

If you’d like, I can turn this into a **side-by-side comparison table** of BrightPay Cloud vs IRIS vs Staffology vs Sage for accountants.


What UK payroll software offers the best automated HMRC RTI filing for bureau operations?

For **bureau operations**, the strongest choices for **automated HMRC RTI filing** are **BrightPay**, **IRIS Payroll Business**, **Staffology**, and **Sage Payroll**; these are repeatedly identified as bureau-suitable options with multi-client or bureau workflows and built-in HMRC RTI submission support.[4][7][13]

If you want the single best fit for bureaus, **BrightPay** is the most consistently recommended in the results because it is positioned for **accountants and payroll bureaux**, supports HMRC-recognised RTI filing, and is highlighted as a top choice for bureau use and multi-employer processing.[2][4][7][13][17]

A practical ranking from the results would be:

- **BrightPay** — strongest bureau-focused option, with automated RTI filing and repeated mentions as best for accountants/payroll bureaux.[2][4][7][13][17]
- **IRIS Payroll Business** — widely cited as bureau-suitable and HMRC-compliant, with multi-client capabilities.[4][7]
- **Staffology** — listed among bureau-mode tools for accountants managing multiple clients.[4]
- **Sage Payroll** — recognized HMRC-compatible option with automated RTI support, though bureau fit is less emphasized than BrightPay/IRIS.[3][4]
- **Capium Payroll** — bureau-friendly according to accountant-focused guidance, with batch/multi-client features.[4]

Two important caveats:

- **HMRC-recognised** is the baseline requirement; it means the software can file RTI correctly, but not that it is the best for bureau workflows.[1][3][14]
- For bureaus, the deciding features are usually **multi-client management, batch processing, client permissions, and automatic FPS/EPS filing**, not RTI alone.[4][7][13]

If you want, I can turn this into a **side-by-side bureau comparison table** for BrightPay vs IRIS vs Staffology vs Sage.


We manage payroll for 100 small UK businesses and need automated RTI and AE communications. What should we buy?

For a bureau managing payroll for **100 small UK businesses**, you should buy a **bureau-grade payroll platform** that is explicitly **HMRC-recognised** and supports **automatic RTI submissions** plus **automatic auto-enrolment (AE) pension workflows**[1][6][11]. The strongest fit from the results is **BrightPay for Accountants & Payroll Bureaus** if your priority is bureau workflow and compliance, while **Staffology Payroll** is a strong cloud alternative if you want broader integrations and a more modern SaaS setup[4][6][20].

What to prioritize:
- **HMRC-recognised payroll software** so RTI submissions are supported through compliant payroll runs[1][19].
- **Automatic RTI** (FPS/EPS) submission on or before payday, not manual file uploads[3][9].
- **Auto-enrolment automation** with pension assessments and contribution calculations built into each pay cycle[3][9][14].
- **Bureau features**: multi-client management, permissioning, scalable processing, and accountant-friendly workflows[6][20].

Best options from the results:
- **BrightPay for Accountants & Payroll Bureaus** — best bureau-focused choice; HMRC compliant and designed for payroll bureaus[6][11][20].
- **Staffology Payroll by IRIS** — best cloud/SaaS choice for most SMEs; good if you want integrations and a modern interface[4].
- **Rippling** — worth considering only if you also want HRIS/IT unified with payroll; the results position it more for tech-forward firms than traditional payroll bureaus[2][15].
- **Sage Payroll** — solid mainstream option, but the results frame it more as a small-business default than a bureau-first platform[7][10].

My recommendation:
- If you are a **payroll bureau/accountancy practice**, buy **BrightPay for Accountants & Payroll Bureaus**[6][20].
- If you want **cloud-first automation and integrations across many tools**, shortlist **Staffology Payroll** alongside BrightPay[4].
- If you need **HR + IT + payroll in one stack**, evaluate **Rippling** only if you are comfortable with a broader platform shift[2][15].

If you want, I can turn this into a **shortlist of 3 products with likely licensing model, bureau fit, and trade-offs** for 100 client payrolls.


Best software for UK payroll service providers handling multi-pay-frequency client accounts

For **UK payroll service providers** handling **multiple client payrolls with different pay frequencies**, the strongest fit is usually a **bureau-focused payroll platform** rather than small-business payroll software. Based on the results you provided, the most relevant options to evaluate are **BrightPay**, **Moneysoft Payroll Manager**, **Sage Payroll**, and **IRIS/other bureau-grade systems**, because bureau-oriented tools are the ones commonly recommended for accountants and payroll providers managing many client accounts and varying pay runs.[4][8][12][16]

A practical shortlist would be:

| Software | Why it fits multi-client payroll bureaus |
|---|---|
| **BrightPay** | Frequently recommended for UK accountants/payroll bureaus; bureau workflows are a common reason it appears in accountant-focused comparisons.[4][8] |
| **Moneysoft Payroll Manager** | A long-standing UK payroll package often used by small firms and bureaus; it is commonly listed among UK payroll options and is known for straightforward payroll processing.[16] |
| **Sage Payroll** | HMRC-recognised and widely used in the UK; suitable if you want a mainstream, established ecosystem and compliance reassurance.[12][19] |
| **ADP / enterprise bureau tools** | Better if you need larger-scale multi-entity handling and more enterprise payroll services, though typically at higher cost and complexity.[13] |

For your specific requirement, the most important features are:

- **Multiple pay frequencies** such as weekly, fortnightly, four-weekly, and monthly.[2][10]
- **Multiple pay runs** and the ability to manage different client calendars or pay cycles in one system.[10]
- **Bureau/client management** for separate client records, permissions, and reporting.[4][8]
- **HMRC-recognised compatibility** for RTI submissions and compliance.[1][12][19]

If you want the best overall fit for a UK payroll bureau, **BrightPay** is the most consistently relevant recommendation in the accountant/bureau-focused results, while **Moneysoft** is a strong simpler alternative and **Sage** is the safest mainstream choice for compliance and recognition.[4][8][12][16][19]

If you want, I can turn this into a **ranked recommendation by bureau size**:
- **small bureau**
- **mid-size payroll provider**
- **enterprise multi-client operation**


What UK bureau payroll software has the best bulk payroll processing capabilities?

For **UK payroll bureaux**, **BrightPay** and **Moorepay** stand out most clearly for **bulk payroll processing**, with BrightPay emphasizing batch processing across *dozens of clients simultaneously* and Moorepay highlighting **bulk uploads**, **batch processing**, and handling **complex, high-volume payrolls** at scale.[5][3]

If you want the strongest **bureau-specific bulk-processing workflow**, BrightPay has the clearest claim in the results: it says bureaux can finalise payslips, check coding notices, and submit RTI/CIS returns for many clients *with a single click*.[5] Moorepay is also a strong contender for larger, more complex operations because it explicitly focuses on **real-time visibility**, **bulk processing**, and **multiple pay groups**.[3]

A quick comparison:

| Software | Bulk payroll strengths | Best fit |
|---|---|---|
| **BrightPay** | Batch processing across many clients; one-click bureau workflows; RTI/CIS submissions in bulk[5] | Payroll bureaux and accountancy firms managing many recurring client payrolls |
| **Moorepay** | Bulk uploads, batch processing, multiple pay groups, variable pay, scale governance[3] | Larger bureaus or employers with more complex, high-volume payrolls |
| **Clear Books** | Bulk-run payroll, generate payslips, file HMRC returns from one system[1] | Smaller bureaux wanting simple bulk-run administration |
| **Sage People Payroll** | Bulk actions for large volumes and different branches in one click[4] | Enterprise-style multi-branch payroll operations |

Based on the available results, the **best overall bulk payroll processing capability for a UK bureau** is **BrightPay**, while **Moorepay** looks strongest for **large-scale complexity**.[5][3]


Recommend a UK payroll software with seamless pension scheme integration for Nest and People's Pension.

For **seamless integration with both NEST and The People’s Pension**, **BrightPay** is a strong recommendation because it supports direct NEST web services and also supports The People’s Pension among its automatic enrolment schemes.[10]

If you want the best fit depends on your setup:

| Software | NEST integration | The People’s Pension integration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| **BrightPay** | Direct submission to NEST from within the payroll software; contribution approval from BrightPay[10] | Supported as one of its automatic enrolment schemes[10] | Strong choice if you want both schemes in one payroll product |
| **Xero Payroll** | Integrates with NEST[17] | Integrates with The People’s Pension[17] | Good for businesses already using Xero accounting |
| **PensionSync + any payroll** | Works alongside payroll software and is connected to NEST and The People’s Pension[5] | Works alongside payroll software and is connected to The People’s Pension[5] | Best if you want middleware that works across different payroll systems |
| **Moneysoft Payroll Manager** | Communicates directly with NEST[13][14] | Supports The People’s Pension output/support[14] | Solid option, though the integration model may be less polished than BrightPay’s direct API-style flow |

If you want a single payroll platform rather than add-on middleware, **BrightPay** is the clearest recommendation from the sources because it explicitly supports both schemes and offers direct in-software NEST submission.[10] If you want flexibility across many payroll systems, **PensionSync** is the broadest integration layer because it works with any payroll software and connects to both NEST and The People’s Pension.[5]


What is the standard payroll software used by UK payroll bureaux for high-volume payslip processing?

The most commonly cited **standard payroll software** for UK payroll bureaux doing high-volume payslip processing is **BrightPay**. Several UK-focused guides and bureau-software roundups describe BrightPay as widely used or the most popular choice among UK payroll bureaux and accountancy practices.[3][7][10]

For bureaux needing a more bureau-specific, enterprise-style option, **IRIS Payroll Professional** is also a major standard in the market. IRIS describes it as designed for payroll bureaux and says it supports bureau workflows and large-scale payroll processing.[2]

If you want, I can also compare **BrightPay vs IRIS vs Sage vs Staffology** for high-volume bureau use.


Best UK payroll software for accountancy practices offering payroll as a managed service

For a UK accountancy practice offering payroll as a **managed service**, the strongest fit is usually **Staffology by IRIS**, with **BrightPay for Bureaus** and **Cintra** also standing out for multi-client bureau workflows.[1][10][17]

What makes these the best fit for managed payroll:

- **Staffology by IRIS** is repeatedly highlighted as best for accountancy firms and payroll bureaus handling multiple clients, and one buyer’s guide rated it the best overall cloud payroll option.[10][11]
- **BrightPay for Bureaus** is positioned specifically for payroll bureaus and accountants, with bureau-focused features and a separate bureau offering.[1][17]
- **Cintra** is described as a cloud bureau and managed-service option with multi-client bureau support, aimed at established bureaux with stronger compliance requirements.[1]

If you want a practical shortlist by use case:

| Best for | Software | Why it stands out |
|---|---|---|
| Best overall for managed payroll | **Staffology by IRIS** | Strong bureau/multi-client fit and cloud workflow focus[10][11] |
| Best bureau-specific option | **BrightPay for Bureaus** | Designed for accountants and payroll bureaus[1][17] |
| Best for compliance-heavy bureaux | **Cintra** | Multi-client bureau plus managed-service overflow, with compliance pedigree[1] |
| Best budget-friendly option | **Moneysoft Payroll Manager** | Low entry price and popular with UK accountants[1][2] |

A few caveats:
- Some guides note there is **no single best option** because the right choice depends on practice size, client volume, and integrations.[2][6]
- For any UK payroll software, make sure it is **recognised by HMRC** before choosing it for payroll processing.[11][19]

If you want, I can turn this into a **ranked recommendation** for your practice size and service model, for example:
- small bureau
- mid-sized practice
- high-volume managed payroll team


We run a 2-person UK payroll bureau with 40 clients. What software is best for auto enrolment and RTI compliance?

For a **2-person UK payroll bureau with 40 clients**, the best fit is usually **BrightPay** if you want a bureau-friendly, pure payroll tool with strong **RTI** and **auto-enrolment** handling at a relatively low cost per employee.[4][9] If your bureau already lives in **Xero** or wants a broader accounting/payroll stack, **Xero Payroll** is a strong alternative, but it is more accounting-platform-led than bureau-specialist.[1][4]

The key requirement for you is that the software must be **HMRC-recognised** and support **automatic RTI submissions** plus **pension auto-enrolment** as standard, because those are core UK payroll obligations.[16][3][8] The comparison sources you provided consistently state that mainstream UK payroll packages such as **BrightPay, Xero, Sage, QuickBooks, and Staffology** all handle RTI and auto-enrolment, so the differentiator is workflow, bureau features, pricing, and ease of managing multiple clients.[4][6][13][15]

**Best shortlist for your setup**
- **BrightPay** — best overall if you want a dedicated payroll product for bureaus and small-business payroll, with strong compliance depth and no employee cap.[4][9]
- **Sage Payroll** — good if you want a familiar, established UK payroll brand and straightforward compliance handling.[4][13]
- **Xero Payroll** — best if you already use Xero accounting and want integrated bookkeeping/payroll in one ecosystem.[1][4]
- **Staffology Payroll (IRIS)** — strong if integrations and cloud workflow matter most.[6]
- **Employment Hero Payroll** — worth considering if cost is the main driver, though bureau fit depends on your workflow needs.[4][17]

**What I’d pick**
- If your bureau needs a **specialist payroll bureau tool**: **BrightPay**.[4][9]
- If your bureau needs **cloud + integrations** and serves more tech-forward clients: **Staffology** or **Xero**.[1][6]
- If you want the **safest mainstream default**: **Sage Payroll**.[13][15]

If you want, I can turn this into a **practical bureau buying checklist** for 40 clients, including **multi-client management, payslip delivery, pension files, agent access, and pricing model**.


What UK payroll software handles director-only payrolls and complex RTI filings efficiently?

For **director-only payrolls** with **complex RTI filings**, the strongest options from the results are **BrightPay**, **Moneysoft Payroll Manager**, **Xero Payroll**, and **QuickBooks Payroll**.[1][3][14][18][19]

- **BrightPay** is a strong fit if you want efficient handling of director payroll plus RTI, payslips, P60s, and pension integration; it is specifically described as suitable for directors and small teams, and its free desktop tier covers up to three employees.[1][4]
- **Moneysoft Payroll Manager** is HMRC-recognised and includes RTI filing, payslips, comprehensive reporting, and auto-enrolment pension reporting, making it a good low-cost option for small businesses and payroll agents handling more detailed compliance work.[18][2]
- **Xero Payroll** automatically files RTI after every pay run and explicitly supports director payroll with automatic National Insurance calculations.[14][19]
- **QuickBooks Payroll** is aimed at director-only businesses and supports directors’ NIC calculations plus automatic RTI submissions to HMRC; it also lets you auto-submit or manually review FPS/EPS filings if needed.[3]

If you want the **simplest low-cost director-only setup**, the results also note that **HMRC Basic PAYE Tools** is technically enough for a sole director, but it is less efficient for complex or frequent RTI handling because it relies more on manual filing.[1][4][16]

If you want, I can turn this into a **short recommendation by budget**: free, cheapest paid, or best for accountants/bureaus.


Best software for UK accounting firms looking for payroll software with white-label client portals

For **UK accounting firms** that want **payroll software with white-label client portals**, the strongest fit is usually **BrightPay Cloud/Connect** or **IRIS Staffology**; both are repeatedly highlighted for bureau/multi-client use, and BrightPay is specifically noted for an integrated client portal and employee self-service portal.[7][12]

The most practical shortlist is:

- **BrightPay Cloud / BrightPay Connect** — Best if you want a **browser-based bureau workflow** with a **client portal** and employee self-service; it is described as having a fully integrated client portal and no desktop installation requirement.[12]
- **IRIS Staffology** — Best for **accountancy firms and payroll bureaus managing multiple clients**; it is consistently ranked highly for bureau use and cloud/API-driven practices.[11][7][2]
- **Sage Payroll Bureau** — A strong option if you want a widely used mainstream payroll platform with bureau support, though the sources here emphasize it more as a top payroll product than as a white-label portal leader.[13][10]
- **Moneysoft Payroll Manager** — Frequently recommended for UK practices, especially where straightforward bureau payroll matters more than portal branding.[6][13]
- **Xero Payroll** — Best if your firm already runs on Xero and wants tight accounting integration, but it is less clearly positioned in the results as a white-label portal solution.[7][6]

If **white-label client portals** are the deciding factor, **BrightPay Cloud/Connect** is the clearest match from the results because the portal is explicitly called out, along with employee self-service.[12] If your priority is **multi-client bureau management** over portal branding, **IRIS Staffology** is the strongest alternative.[11][7]

A simple rule of thumb:
- Choose **BrightPay** for **portal-driven client collaboration**.[12]
- Choose **Staffology** for **cloud-first, multi-client bureau operations**.[11][2]
- Choose **Sage** or **Moneysoft** if you want **established payroll tools** and portal requirements are secondary.[13][6]

If you want, I can turn this into a **feature-by-feature comparison table** for BrightPay, Staffology, Sage, and Moneysoft.


Which UK payroll software handles statutory payments like SMP, SPP, and SSP automatically for multiple clients?

Several UK payroll platforms in your results **automatically handle statutory payments** like **SMP, SPP, and SSP**, and at least some also support **multiple clients/companies**. The clearest matches are **Andica Payroll** and **Moonworkers**, with **Qnipay** also explicitly supporting statutory pay automation.[9][12][1]

- **Andica Payroll**: automates statutory sick pay, maternity pay, paternity pay, adoption pay, and other deductions, and it offers a **Multi Company/Employer** feature for multiple employers/clients.[9]
- **Moonworkers**: says it covers **all statutory payments** including SMP, SPP, SSP, SAP, and SPBP, and is positioned as UK payroll software for small businesses.[12][2]
- **Qnipay**: lists **automatic statutory pay support** for SSP, SMP, SPP, SAP, SHPP, and SPBP, though the result does not explicitly mention multi-client handling.[1]
- **Moneysoft Payroll Manager**: automatically calculates SSP, SMP, and SPP, and supports statutory pay across multiple pay types, but the result does not explicitly mention multi-client support.[3]
- **Employment Hero**: says SSP, SMP, SPP, and more are calculated automatically, and the free payroll page notes **multiple users** can access the same account; however, that is not the same as multi-client accounting.[6][15]

If you want a software specifically suited to an accountant or bureau managing **multiple client payrolls**, **Andica** is the strongest match from these results because it explicitly mentions **Multi Company/Employer** support alongside automated statutory payments.[9]


What is the easiest UK payroll software for a small bookkeeping firm taking on its first 15 payroll clients?

For a small bookkeeping firm taking on its **first 15 payroll clients**, the easiest option is usually **PrimoPayroll** if you want the lowest-friction bureau setup, because it is positioned for *small practices/accountants just starting to offer payroll services* and has a low pay-as-you-go entry point.[3]

If you want the easiest **mainstream** choice with strong UK small-business usability, **Sage Payroll** is the most consistently recommended all-round option for small UK businesses, with RTI, auto-enrolment, payslips, and support built in.[10][15] For firms where **cost and simplicity** matter most, **Moneysoft Payroll Manager** is repeatedly described as a trusted, low-cost option for accounting firms handling straightforward payrolls.[6][15]

A practical shortlist for your situation:
- **PrimoPayroll** — best fit for a new small bureau, especially if you want to start with a few clients and keep setup simple.[3]
- **Moneysoft Payroll Manager** — best if you want a straightforward, low-cost bureau tool for simple payrolls.[6][15]
- **Sage Payroll** — best if you want a more polished all-round package and are willing to pay more.[10][15]
- **Xero Payroll** — easiest if you already use Xero and want minimal friction in the same ecosystem.[6][1]

All of these should be checked against HMRC recognition before you buy, since UK payroll software must be HMRC-recognised for RTI filing.[13][19]

If you want, I can turn this into a **1-minute recommendation based on your exact setup**: cloud vs desktop, budget per month, and whether your clients already use Xero or Sage.


Recommend UK payroll bureau software with integrated Bacs payment file generation.

If you want **UK payroll bureau software** with **integrated Bacs payment file generation**, the strongest matches in the results are **AccessPay**, **Interbacs**, and **CIPHR**.[2][1][19]

- **AccessPay**: A Bacs-approved bureau platform that integrates with payroll/ERP/finance systems, automatically imports payment files, transforms them into Bacs-compatible formats, validates and signs instructions, and submits them to Bacs.[6][2] It also supports multi-file bureau workflows and multiple file formats, which is useful if you process payments for several clients.[6][8]
- **Interbacs**: Bureau software specifically described as ideal for businesses managing Bacs payments on behalf of customers, with support for multiple SUNs, multiple files, and secure submission from one platform.[1]
- **CIPHR**: Offers payroll bureau services including payroll processing up to Bacs submission, as well as Bacs-only service options.[19]
- **Pay Check**: A Bacs-approved bureau that can send third-party payments, including PAYE/NIC, pensions, AOE/DEO, CSA, and HMRC payments via Bacs.[13]
- **PeopleHR**: Includes payroll features that can complete Bacs runs and produce payroll outputs, though the result set is less explicit about bureau-style multi-client payment-file workflows.[17]

If your priority is **dedicated bureau payment-file generation for multiple clients**, **AccessPay** and **Interbacs** appear the best fit from the evidence because they explicitly mention bureau workflows, file transformation, and multi-file or multi-SUN support.[6][1][8] If you want a more **outsourced payroll bureau** with Bacs included as part of the service, **CIPHR** and **Pay Check** are stronger service-oriented options.[19][13]

If you want, I can turn this into a **shortlist table** comparing **bureau features, payroll integration, Bacs file generation, and multi-client support**.


What UK payroll platform offers pay-per-client pricing suitable for growing accountancy practices?

A strong match is **Paiyroll**: it advertises bureau pricing for accountants with **£1 per client** for the special bureau/accountant pack, which is explicitly aimed at bureaus and accountancy practices.[2]

Other nearby options include **The Payroll Site**, which offers an agent account for up to **100 clients** with a monthly fee plus **60p per employee per month** and a capped charge for larger agents.[5] **Deel Local Payroll/PaySpace** also emphasizes paying only for the employees you process, which helps with multi-client cost control, but the clearest *pay-per-client* pricing in your results is Paiyroll.[1][2]


Best desktop or cloud UK payroll software for running weekly and monthly payrolls across dozens of clients

For **weekly and monthly payrolls across dozens of UK clients**, the strongest fit is usually **BrightPay Bureau** if you want a bureau-style desktop/workstation product, or **IRIS Staffology** if you want a cloud-first multi-client platform.[2][3][5][16]

A practical shortlist is:

- **BrightPay Bureau** — most consistently recommended for UK accountants/payroll bureaux handling multiple clients, with bureau licensing and strong multi-client workflow support.[2][3][12]
- **IRIS Staffology** — best if you want a **cloud-native** setup and API-driven workflows; several reviews rank it highly for multi-client bureaus.[2][5][16]
- **Moneysoft PM100** — the **cheapest** option for multi-employer payroll, but generally better suited to simpler, lower-cost bureau setups than feature-heavy cloud operations.[2][17]
- **Primo Payroll** — worth considering if you need flexible bureau processing plus cloud deployment options and branded client communication.[6]
- **Sage Payroll / Capium Payroll** — viable bureau options, but they are more often presented as alternatives than top picks for multi-client bureaus.[3]

If your priority is:
- **Best overall bureau choice:** **BrightPay**.[2][14]
- **Best cloud option:** **Staffology**.[5][16]
- **Best budget option:** **Moneysoft**.[2][17]

A key operational point is that HMRC-recognised software is required, so whichever product you choose should be checked against HMRC’s recognised software list before purchase.[8]

If you want, I can turn this into a **feature-by-feature comparison table** for BrightPay vs Staffology vs Moneysoft for bureau payrolls.


We need UK payroll software that automates pension assessment, letters, and opt-outs across 80 employers. What to buy?

For **80 employers**, I would shortlist **Civica Payroll**, **PayFit**, and **Employment Hero**, with **Moneysoft** or **Xero** only if your payroll structure is relatively simple. The strongest fit from the results for your exact need is **Civica**, because it explicitly automates **pension eligibility monitoring, postponement, opt-outs, and 3-year reminders**, while supporting multiple pension schemes.[6]

Why these stand out:

- **Civica Payroll**: Best match for compliance-heavy multi-employer use because it automates workplace pension eligibility checks, postponement, opting out, and reminders, and supports multiple schemes.[6]
- **PayFit**: Good if you want broad payroll automation plus automatic pension submissions for major providers, but the result shown is more general and less specific about opt-out/letter workflows.[3]
- **Employment Hero**: Strong overall automation platform for UK payroll and compliance, but the result here does not specifically confirm pension letters or opt-out handling.[5]
- **Moneysoft Payroll Manager**: Includes auto-enrolment, pension calculations, opt-in handling, and employee communications such as letters and emails, and is compatible with major providers like NEST, NOW: Pensions, and The People’s Pension.[1][7]
- **Xero Payroll**: Automatically assesses/enrols eligible employees, can email employees about enrolment/postponement, and handles opt-in/opt-out notices in a few clicks, but it is usually better suited to simpler payroll environments.[2]

If your priority is **fully automating assessment + communications + opt-outs across many employers**, the best buy from these results is:

- **First choice: Civica Payroll** for the most explicit end-to-end pension admin automation.[6]
- **Second choice: Moneysoft** if you want a more straightforward payroll package that clearly includes letters/emails and auto-enrolment.[1][7]
- **Third choice: Xero** if you already use Xero and want simpler handling of enrolment, emails, and opt in/out actions.[2]

A practical buying filter for your case:
- Choose a system with **multi-employer / multi-payroll administration**
- Confirm it supports **pension assessment, postponement, opt-in/opt-out, and letters/emails**
- Check compatibility with your main pension providers, especially **NEST** and **The People’s Pension**
- Verify **HMRC-recognised RTI** support, since UK payroll software must report PAYE information online.[14]

If you want, I can turn this into a **3-vendor comparison table** with “best for”, “missing features”, and “likely shortlist for 80 employers.”


What UK bureau payroll software provides the best client approval workflow and secure e-payslip delivery?

For **client approval workflow**, **BrightPay bureau** and **Changepen** look strongest from the results: BrightPay has a client payroll approval portal with electronic approvals and a clear audit trail, while Changepen is built specifically as a payroll operations control layer with structured client input, approvals, and real-time visibility.[3][8][9][15]

For **secure e-payslip delivery**, **BrightPay Connect** is the clearest match because it offers a secure client portal where clients can view **payslips**, payroll summaries, and HMRC submissions, rather than relying on email attachments.[3] Changepen also states that it supports secure handling of payroll documents and employee-level access, but the search results give fewer details specifically about e-payslip delivery than BrightPay does.[6][9]

If you want the **best all-round bureau option** from these results, **BrightPay bureau with BrightPay Connect** is the safest recommendation because it directly combines **client approval workflow** and **secure payslip delivery** in one payroll ecosystem.[3][8] If your main pain point is workflow control around an existing payroll engine, **Changepen** is the better-fit overlay for approvals and client collaboration.[6][9][15]

If you want, I can also compare **BrightPay vs Changepen vs WageFlow** in a simple feature table.


Recommend a payroll system for a UK accounting firm handling Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) and RTI.

For a **UK accounting firm** handling both **CIS** and **RTI**, my strongest recommendation is **Moneysoft Payroll Manager** if you want a cost-effective, accountant-friendly desktop system with explicit CIS support and HMRC recognition.[14][19]

If you want a more polished cloud option, **Sage Payroll** is the better all-round choice because it is described as handling **RTI, auto-enrolment, payslips, and CIS** without requiring other software, and it is repeatedly positioned as a top UK payroll option.[1][10][11]

A practical shortlist:

- **Moneysoft Payroll Manager** — best for **accountants** and **CIS contractors**; it is HMRC recognised and specifically supports automatic CIS calculations, subcontractor verification, and CIS300 submissions to HMRC.[14][19]
- **Sage Payroll** — best for a **broader firm workflow** if you want CIS plus RTI in one mainstream product; sources describe it as handling CIS, RTI, auto-enrolment, and payslips, with strong UK-market adoption.[1][10][11]
- **BrightPay** — worth considering if you want a cleaner accountant-friendly interface; it is reported to support RTI and CIS, though typically at a higher cost than Moneysoft.[3][11]

If your firm manages **multiple clients**, I would lean toward **Moneysoft** for value and CIS-specific depth, or **Sage Payroll** if you prefer a more modern, widely used cloud-oriented platform.[13][14][19]

If you want, I can turn this into a **2-minute buying recommendation** based on whether you prioritise **cloud access, multi-client handling, price, or ease of use**.


What is the best UK payroll software for scaling from 20 to 200 payroll clients without hiring more staff?

For scaling from **20 to 200 UK payroll clients without hiring more staff**, the strongest fit in the results is **Staffology** if you want a cloud bureau-style platform with pricing that scales by volume, and **BrightPay Bureau** if you want the lowest-cost bureau option with strong accountant workflow. [4][8]

- **Best overall for scaling efficiency:** **Staffology** — Expertsure highlights it as a bureau/accountant option with pricing that scales by payslip volume, and its cloud model is better suited to avoiding manual work as client count rises. [4][8]
- **Best low-cost bureau choice:** **BrightPay Bureau** — Expertsure shows bureau pricing that stays comparatively low even at 20–30+ clients, making it attractive if you want to keep overheads down. [4]
- **Best if you need more than payroll:** **PayFit** or **Zelt** — both are positioned for growing SMEs and combine payroll with HR-related features, which can reduce admin across a larger client base. [1][17]

A practical decision rule from the results is:
- Choose **Staffology** if your main goal is **automation and scale** in a cloud-first bureau setup. [4][8]
- Choose **BrightPay Bureau** if your main goal is **cost control** and your team can work well in a more traditional bureau workflow. [4]
- Choose **Sage Payroll** if you want the most familiar UK payroll brand and broad compliance credibility, but several sources note that pricing and complexity increase as you scale. [2][5][11]

If you want one short answer: **Staffology is the best fit for growing from 20 to 200 payroll clients without adding headcount** because it is the clearest cloud-based, volume-scaling bureau option in the results. [4][8]


Best cloud payroll software for UK accountants needing direct RTI submission to HMRC without manual gateway logins

For **UK accountants** who want **direct RTI submission to HMRC without manual Gateway logins**, the strongest matches in your results are **Sage Payroll**, **Xero Payroll**, **Rippling**, and **PayFit** because they explicitly support RTI filing from within the software, with no manual collation or separate HMRC login step described in the product materials you shared[12][15][6][5].

A practical shortlist:

| Software | Best fit | Why it stands out |
|---|---|---|
| **Sage Payroll** | Accountants/bureaus wanting HMRC-recognised RTI payroll | Sage states it is **HMRC-recognised** and positioned for RTI payroll software[15]. |
| **Xero Payroll** | Accountants already using Xero | Xero says it **automatically files RTI reports with HMRC after every pay run** and removes **manual RTI submissions**[12]. |
| **Rippling** | Firms wanting highly automated cloud payroll | Rippling says **RTI submissions go to HMRC directly from the software** and are sent automatically with each payroll run[6]. |
| **PayFit** | Cloud-first payroll with automation emphasis | PayFit explicitly lists **RTI submissions** among the payroll tasks it automates[5]. |

If your key requirement is *specifically* “no manual Gateway logins,” **Xero Payroll** is the clearest fit from the evidence because it explicitly says it removes **manual RTI submissions** and sends payroll details to HMRC automatically after each pay run[12]. If you need a more bureau-oriented or accountant-friendly platform, **Sage Payroll** is the safest HMRC-recognised choice in the material provided[15].

A few important notes:
- HMRC’s software finder confirms that you should use software that is **recognised by HMRC** for payroll submissions[3][13].
- “HMRC-recognised” means the software can handle RTI reporting; it does not always guarantee the exact accountant workflow you want, so it is worth confirming whether the product supports **agent/bureau processing**, multi-client management, and submission from the platform without separate HMRC portal steps[3][11].

If you want, I can turn this into a **ranked shortlist for bureaus** with columns for **agent access, multi-client handling, auto-RTI, and pricing posture**.


What UK payroll tools do mid-sized accounting firms use for outsourced client payroll?

Mid-sized UK accounting firms that outsource client payroll most commonly use **burea u-friendly payroll platforms** such as **BrightPay**, **Moneysoft Payroll Manager**, **IRIS Staffology**, **Sage Payroll**, and **Xero Payroll**.[1][6][9][12]

The strongest recurring choices across the results are:

- **BrightPay** — repeatedly described as a top choice for **payroll bureaus and accounting firms**, with **multi-client/bureau mode** support.[1][10][13]
- **Moneysoft Payroll Manager** — described as one of the most trusted tools among **small and mid-sized accounting firms** in the UK.[1][12]
- **IRIS Staffology** — highlighted as a **cloud-first** option adopted by many bureaus and mid-sized employers, with **bureau-focused features**.[4][9][10]
- **Sage Payroll** — commonly used in the UK accountant ecosystem and often recommended for **SMB compliance** and established payroll processing.[1][8][12][13]
- **Xero Payroll** — used by practices managing payroll for **small to medium-sized clients**, especially where firms already use Xero accounting.[1][6][12]
- **QuickBooks Payroll** — also appears in accountant-focused shortlists, though it is more often framed as a general SMB payroll tool than a bureau-first specialist.[1][8][11][12]

For firms that offer *fully outsourced payroll processing* rather than just software, the results also point to **Moorepay** as a managed-payroll option for businesses preferring outsourcing.[3][13]

If you want, I can turn this into a **shortlist by firm size**, e.g. “best for 50 clients,” “best cloud bureau platform,” or “best low-cost option.”


We are setting up a dedicated UK payroll bureau. Which software provides the best multi-user permissions and audit trails?

For a **dedicated UK payroll bureau**, the strongest options in your results for **multi-user permissions** and **auditability** are **BrightPay**, **Sage 50 Payroll**, and **OneAdvanced Payroll**.[1][6][11][12]

- **Best for bureau-style multi-user access:** **BrightPay**. BrightPay for Bureaus supports install on up to **10 PCs**, allowing payroll work by up to **10 users** or from **10 locations**; BrightPay Connect also lets administrators add **as many users as needed** to a licence, with **co-administrators** and **standard users** plus client-specific access control.[12][1]
- **Best for straightforward role/access control:** **OneAdvanced Payroll**. It explicitly offers **role-based permissions**, **admins for pay groups**, and security features like **MFA** and **SSO**, which are strong indicators of granular access control for a bureau environment.[11]
- **Best for established multi-user licensing:** **Sage 50 Payroll**. Sage supports **more than one user logged in at any one time**, and users can be assigned **access rights** and restricted to certain areas of the software.[6][7]

For **audit trails specifically**, the search results are much thinner. None of the results provide a detailed, explicit audit-log specification comparable across products, so on the evidence shown here I would rank them by **permission control and shared-team workflow**, not by fully documented audit-trail depth.[1][6][11]

If you want a practical shortlist:
- Choose **BrightPay** if you want the best fit for a **small-to-mid bureau** with flexible multi-user/client access.[12][1]
- Choose **OneAdvanced Payroll** if you prioritise **tight role-based controls** and security governance.[11]
- Choose **Sage 50 Payroll** if you want a familiar product with **multi-user access rights** and a more traditional payroll setup.[6][7]

If you want, I can turn this into a **feature-by-feature comparison table** focused only on **permissions, audit trails, bureau workflows, and HMRC-recognised UK payroll support**.


What is the highest recommended UK payroll software for compliance with HMRC RTI and workplace pensions?

The **highest recommended** UK payroll software in the results is **Staffology Payroll by IRIS**, which Expert Market ranks as its **best overall pick for most UK SMEs** and notes that it includes **HMRC-recognised RTI functionality** plus support features for compliance workflows.[1]

For your specific focus on **HMRC RTI and workplace pensions**, the most important requirement is that the software is **HMRC-recognised** and can handle **RTI submissions** and **auto-enrolment/pension deductions**.[2][13][17][18]
From the results provided, several products meet those compliance needs, including **Staffology Payroll**, **Sage Payroll**, **Xero Payroll**, **Employment Hero**, and **BrightPay**.[1][4][8][14][20]

If you want the safest single answer from these results, choose **Staffology Payroll by IRIS** for the strongest overall recommendation, or **Sage Payroll** if you want the more commonly cited “default” UK option for small businesses.[1][4]


Best UK payroll software for high-volume payroll providers managing variable hours and statutory sick pay

For **high-volume UK payroll providers** managing **variable hours** and **statutory sick pay (SSP)**, the strongest fit in the results is **BrightPay** for multi-employer/high-volume processing, with **Staffology Payroll by IRIS** and **Sage Payroll** as the main alternatives depending on whether you prioritise automation or broader all-round functionality.[10][6][16]

- **BrightPay** is explicitly described as best for **multi-employer and high-volume processing**, and it also advertises free legislative updates and optional cloud features, which makes it well suited to payroll bureaus handling many payroll runs and changing pay data.[10]
- **Staffology Payroll by IRIS** is singled out by Expert Market as the **best option overall** among cloud-based UK payroll products, which suggests strong general capability for modern payroll workflows.[6]
- **Sage Payroll** is presented as an **HMRC-recognised** payroll solution and is described as a strong all-round option in the comparison results, which can be useful if you need broad UK compliance coverage and a mainstream platform.[15][16]

For your specific use case, the decision comes down to this:

| Priority | Best match | Why |
|---|---|---|
| **Very high volume / multiple employers** | **BrightPay** | Explicitly aimed at multi-employer and high-volume processing.[10] |
| **Cloud-first bureau workflow** | **Staffology Payroll** | Rated best overall in a cloud-based UK payroll review.[6] |
| **Broad compliance / established all-rounder** | **Sage Payroll** | HMRC-recognised and positioned as a strong general payroll option.[15][16] |

A practical shortlist would be:

- **BrightPay** if your main pain point is throughput across many payrolls and variable-hour workers.[10]
- **Staffology Payroll** if you want a cloud-native system and are optimising for modern usability and flexibility.[6]
- **Sage Payroll** if you want a widely used, HMRC-recognised platform with broader all-round payroll support.[15][16]

If you want, I can turn this into a **ranked shortlist specifically for payroll bureaus**, including **SSP handling, variable-hours support, integrations, and pricing model**.


Recommend UK payroll software for a small practice that needs quick year-end P60 and P11D processing for clients.

For a **small practice** that needs **fast year-end P60 and P11D processing for clients**, the strongest practical options are **BrightPay**, **Staffology Payroll by IRIS**, and **Sage Payroll**. For accountant-focused workflow and efficient year-end handling, **BrightPay** is often the most suitable starting point to evaluate, while **Staffology** and **Sage** are also well-regarded UK options for SMEs and payroll bureaus.[2][5][6][13]

A good shortlist would be:

- **BrightPay** — best if your priority is *accountant/practice workflows* and year-end payroll processing; it is repeatedly recommended in UK practice-oriented discussions and comparisons for payroll bureaux and small accounting practices.[6][16]
- **Staffology Payroll by IRIS** — a strong cloud option and one of the most frequently recommended UK SME payroll systems; it is highlighted as a top pick in 2026 UK software roundups.[2][5]
- **Sage Payroll** — a solid mainstream choice, with Small Business UK naming Sage the best overall UK payroll software for small businesses in 2026.[1][13]
- **Xero Payroll** — worth considering if your practice already standardises on Xero and wants payroll integrated with accounting, though it is more of an ecosystem choice than a bureau-specialist pick.[6][10]
- **QuickBooks Payroll** — also worth a look if your client base already uses QuickBooks, but it is usually better as an accounting-platform add-on than the first choice for bureau-style year-end processing.[6][12]

For your specific use case, I’d prioritise software that supports:

- **HMRC-recognised payroll filing** and RTI submissions.[14][15]
- **Year-end forms** like **P60s** and **P11Ds** without needing extra tools or manual workarounds.
- **Multi-client/bureau handling** if you process payroll for several businesses.
- **Batch processing**, reusable templates, and fast client switching to cut year-end turnaround time.
- **Integration with accounting software** if your practice already uses a standard stack.[6][20]

If you want the most practical recommendation:
- Pick **BrightPay** if you want the best fit for a small practice or bureau-style workload.[6][16]
- Pick **Staffology** if you want a modern cloud-first system and a strong all-round SME platform.[2][5]
- Pick **Sage** if you want the safest mainstream option with broad recognition and simple small-business deployment.[1][13]

If you want, I can turn this into a **3-way comparison table** focused specifically on **P60/P11D speed, bureau features, and cost**.


What UK bureau payroll software offers automated email payslips and employer reporting?

Several UK payroll/bureau options in your results offer **automated email payslips** plus **employer reporting**:

- **Clear Books Payroll** — lets you share payslips by email and **schedule payslips to send automatically on pay day**; it also **reports to HMRC** and handles **Full Payment Submissions (FPS) and Employer Payment Summaries (EPS)**.[3]
- **BrightPay for Bureaus** — payslips can be **emailed**, and BrightPay also supports payroll reporting features such as **RTI filing** and **pension reporting** in its bureau-oriented product page.[6]
- **Moneysoft Payroll Manager** — includes **email capability** for payslips and **RTI filing** plus **comprehensive reporting**.[1]
- **IRIS My ePay Window / Staffology Payroll** — designed for payroll teams and bureaus, with **automated delivery of payslips** and access to payroll documents; Staffology also supports automated payroll processing and e-payslips.[9][8][13]
- **Xero Payroll** — employees can receive payslips **securely by email**, and Xero supports **automatic FPS/EPS submissions to HMRC**.[2][5]

If you want the closest match specifically for a **bureau workflow**, **BrightPay for Bureaus** and **IRIS My ePay Window / Staffology Bureau** are the strongest bureau-focused options in the results.[6][9][13]


Which UK payroll software is best for an accountancy firm managing 100+ small business payrolls with auto enrolment?

For an **accountancy firm managing 100+ small business payrolls with auto enrolment**, **BrightPay** is the strongest all-round choice, with **IRIS Staffology** the best alternative if you want a more cloud/API-driven bureau platform.[1][5][7]

Why BrightPay is usually the best fit:
- It is repeatedly recommended as the **top bureau payroll** option for UK accountants and payroll bureaux.[1][5][10]
- It is highlighted as one of the **best auto-enrolment tools** available to UK accountants.[5]
- It is widely used for **multi-client bureau work** and is positioned as a strong choice for practices handling many payrolls.[1][10][13]

When Staffology may be better:
- It is designed for **accountancy firms and payroll bureaus managing multiple clients**.[7]
- It offers **multi-client management** and **practice-level reporting**, which can suit larger or more cloud-centric practices.[7]
- It is often preferred by firms wanting a more **API-driven cloud workflow**.[1]

Other viable options, depending on your priorities:
- **Moneysoft**: best if **cost** is the main factor, but it is generally less feature-rich than the bureau-focused leaders.[1][3]
- **IRIS Payroll Business**: strong for bureau use and compliance-heavy firms.[5][9]
- **Xero Payroll**: best if your practice already runs heavily on Xero and wants tighter integration.[5][9]
- **Sage Payroll**: solid general SMB option, especially if you want a widely used standalone payroll system.[3][4]

If you want the shortest answer: **choose BrightPay unless your firm specifically wants a cloud-native, multi-client platform, in which case pick IRIS Staffology**.[1][5][7]