Wave Payroll vs Bullhorn
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Wave Payroll
Wave Payroll is a simple payroll solution built into the Wave accounting ecosystem. It is designed for very small businesses that already use Wave for accounting and want an integrated payroll solution. Wave Payroll handles direct deposit, tax payments, and W-2s, making it a natural choice for businesses already in the Wave ecosystem.
Bullhorn
Bullhorn is the leading ATS and CRM platform built specifically for staffing and recruiting agencies. It combines applicant tracking with client relationship management in one purpose-built system.
Pros
- ✓Seamlessly integrates with Wave accounting — no manual data transfer needed
- ✓Very affordable pricing for micro-businesses
- ✓Simple interface with minimal setup required
- ✓Free Wave accounting included with subscription
Cons
- ✗Limited features compared to dedicated payroll platforms
- ✗Tax filing is only automatic in select states — manual filing required in others
- ✗No mobile payroll app
- ✗Not suitable for businesses with complex payroll needs
Pros
- ✓Purpose-built for staffing agencies
- ✓Strong CRM and client management
- ✓Excellent pipeline visibility
- ✓Deep integration with job boards
- ✓Good mobile app
Cons
- ✗Not ideal for in-house recruiting teams
- ✗Can be expensive
- ✗Interface has a learning curve
- ✗Customization requires technical knowledge
Wave Payroll vs Bullhorn: Side by Side
| Factor | Wave Payroll | Bullhorn |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Applicant Tracking |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $20/mo + $6/person | Contact for pricing |
| Best For | Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll | Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Wave Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓tax payments and filings
- ✓W-2 and 1099 preparation
- ✓Wave accounting integration
- ✓employee self-service
Bullhorn Features
- ✓Applicant tracking
- ✓CRM for recruiters
- ✓resume parsing
- ✓candidate sourcing
- ✓reporting and analytics
- ✓integrations
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose Bullhorn if staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ats and client crm platform.
Best For
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Best For
Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform
Also Consider
If neither Wave Payroll nor Bullhorn 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 Wave Payroll and Bullhorn?
Wave Payroll is best for micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Bullhorn is best for staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ats and client crm platform.
Which is better, Wave Payroll or Bullhorn?
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose Bullhorn if staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ats and client crm platform.
How much does Wave Payroll cost?
Wave Payroll starts at $20/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Bullhorn cost?
Visit Bullhorn website for current pricing.
Who should use Wave Payroll?
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Who should use Bullhorn?
Staffing and recruiting agencies needing a combined ATS and client CRM platform