Wave Payroll vs Jobvite
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.
Jobvite
Jobvite is a comprehensive talent acquisition suite covering recruiting, onboarding, and employee referrals. It combines ATS capabilities with recruitment marketing tools to attract top candidates.
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
- ✓Strong recruitment marketing features
- ✓Good employee referral program tools
- ✓Solid onboarding module
- ✓CRM capabilities built in
- ✓Good analytics dashboard
Cons
- ✗Can be complex to configure
- ✗Pricing not transparent
- ✗Some users report slow support response
- ✗Interface can feel cluttered
Wave Payroll vs Jobvite: Side by Side
| Factor | Wave Payroll | Jobvite |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Growing companies wanting to combine ATS with recruitment marketing and employee referrals |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Wave Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓tax payments and filings
- ✓W-2 and 1099 preparation
- ✓Wave accounting integration
- ✓employee self-service
Jobvite Features
- ✓Applicant tracking
- ✓CRM
- ✓onboarding
- ✓sourcing
- ✓analytics
- ✓career site builder
- ✓interview management
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose Jobvite if growing companies wanting to combine ats with recruitment marketing and employee referrals.
Best For
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Best For
Growing companies wanting to combine ATS with recruitment marketing and employee referrals
Also Consider
If neither Wave Payroll nor Jobvite 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 Jobvite?
Wave Payroll is best for micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Jobvite is best for growing companies wanting to combine ats with recruitment marketing and employee referrals.
Which is better, Wave Payroll or Jobvite?
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose Jobvite if growing companies wanting to combine ats with recruitment marketing and employee referrals.
How much does Wave Payroll cost?
Wave Payroll starts at $20/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Jobvite cost?
Visit Jobvite website for current pricing.
Who should use Wave Payroll?
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Who should use Jobvite?
Growing companies wanting to combine ATS with recruitment marketing and employee referrals