Patriot Payroll vs Paymo
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Patriot Payroll
Patriot Payroll is one of the most affordable full-service payroll solutions for small businesses. It offers basic payroll and full-service payroll tiers, with the full-service option handling all federal, state, and local tax filings. Patriot is popular with very small businesses and solo operators who want simple, reliable payroll without complex features.
Paymo
Paymo is a project management and time tracking tool built for freelancers and small agencies. It combines task management, time tracking, invoicing, and resource scheduling in one platform.
Pros
- ✓One of the most affordable payroll solutions available
- ✓Simple and easy to use with minimal learning curve
- ✓US-based customer support available by phone
- ✓Free trial available before committing
Cons
- ✗Limited features compared to full HR platforms
- ✗No mobile app for running payroll
- ✗Benefits administration not included
- ✗Less suitable for businesses with complex payroll needs
Pros
- ✓Built-in time tracking and invoicing
- ✓Good resource scheduling
- ✓Ideal for client-facing work
- ✓Affordable pricing
- ✓Clean interface
Cons
- ✗Not suited for large enterprise teams
- ✗Limited automation
- ✗Smaller integration ecosystem
- ✗Reporting less robust than competitors
Patriot Payroll vs Paymo: Side by Side
| Factor | Patriot Payroll | Paymo |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Project Management |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Starting Price | $17/mo + $4/person | Contact for pricing |
| Best For | Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution | Freelancers and small agencies needing project management combined with time tracking and client invoicing |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Patriot Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓tax filing options
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee self-service portal
- ✓time and attendance add-on
- ✓HR software add-on
- ✓contractor payments
Paymo Features
- ✓Project management
- ✓time tracking
- ✓invoicing
- ✓expense tracking
- ✓team collaboration
- ✓client portal
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Patriot Payroll if very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution. Choose Paymo if freelancers and small agencies needing project management combined with time tracking and client invoicing.
Best For
Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution
Best For
Freelancers and small agencies needing project management combined with time tracking and client invoicing
Also Consider
If neither Patriot Payroll nor Paymo is the right fit, Multiplier is worth evaluating.
Multiplier
Startups and SMBs hiring internationally on a budget
From $40/contractor/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Patriot Payroll and Paymo?
Patriot Payroll is best for very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution. Paymo is best for freelancers and small agencies needing project management combined with time tracking and client invoicing.
Which is better, Patriot Payroll or Paymo?
Choose Patriot Payroll if very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution. Choose Paymo if freelancers and small agencies needing project management combined with time tracking and client invoicing.
How much does Patriot Payroll cost?
Patriot Payroll starts at $17/mo + $4/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Paymo cost?
Visit Paymo website for current pricing.
Who should use Patriot Payroll?
Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution
Who should use Paymo?
Freelancers and small agencies needing project management combined with time tracking and client invoicing