Paymo vs Zenefits (now TriNet)
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
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.
Zenefits (now TriNet)
Zenefits was a cloud-based HR platform for small and mid-size businesses. In 2022, Zenefits was acquired by TriNet, one of the largest PEO providers in the US. The Zenefits platform has been integrated into TriNet's product suite. Businesses previously using Zenefits are now served under the TriNet brand.
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
Pros
- ✓Strong benefits administration with a wide carrier network
- ✓Easy employee self-service for benefits enrollment and changes
- ✓Affordable base pricing for small teams
- ✓Good compliance tools for ACA and other regulations
Cons
- ✗Payroll processing costs extra as an add-on
- ✗Customer support quality has been inconsistent historically
- ✗Less suitable for companies that need advanced HR or payroll features
Paymo vs Zenefits (now TriNet): Side by Side
| Factor | Paymo | Zenefits (now TriNet) |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Project Management | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Starting Price | Contact for pricing | $8/employee/mo |
| Best For | Freelancers and small agencies needing project management combined with time tracking and client invoicing | Small businesses focused on benefits administration |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Paymo Features
- ✓Project management
- ✓time tracking
- ✓invoicing
- ✓expense tracking
- ✓team collaboration
- ✓client portal
Zenefits (now TriNet) Features
- ✓Benefits administration
- ✓payroll
- ✓time tracking
- ✓compliance
- ✓onboarding
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Paymo if freelancers and small agencies needing project management combined with time tracking and client invoicing. Choose Zenefits (now TriNet) if small businesses focused on benefits administration.
Best For
Freelancers and small agencies needing project management combined with time tracking and client invoicing
Best For
Small businesses focused on benefits administration
Also Consider
If neither Paymo nor Zenefits (now TriNet) is the right fit, Wrike is worth evaluating.
Wrike
Marketing and creative teams needing enterprise project management with approvals and proofing
From Free
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Paymo and Zenefits (now TriNet)?
Paymo is best for freelancers and small agencies needing project management combined with time tracking and client invoicing. Zenefits (now TriNet) is best for small businesses focused on benefits administration.
Which is better, Paymo or Zenefits (now TriNet)?
Choose Paymo if freelancers and small agencies needing project management combined with time tracking and client invoicing. Choose Zenefits (now TriNet) if small businesses focused on benefits administration.
How much does Paymo cost?
Visit Paymo website for current pricing.
How much does Zenefits (now TriNet) cost?
Zenefits (now TriNet) starts at $8/employee/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Paymo?
Freelancers and small agencies needing project management combined with time tracking and client invoicing
Who should use Zenefits (now TriNet)?
Small businesses focused on benefits administration
