Zenefits (now TriNet) vs Clearbooks
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
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.
Clearbooks
Clearbooks is a UK-focused cloud accounting software designed for small businesses and sole traders. It covers invoicing, expenses, payroll, and VAT returns in a simple and affordable package.
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
Pros
- ✓Built specifically for UK accounting and VAT
- ✓Simple and easy to use
- ✓Affordable pricing
- ✓Good invoicing features
- ✓Solid MTD (Making Tax Digital) compliance
Cons
- ✗Limited outside UK market
- ✗Fewer integrations than QuickBooks or Xero
- ✗Less suitable for larger businesses
- ✗Support can be slow
Zenefits (now TriNet) vs Clearbooks: Side by Side
| Factor | Zenefits (now TriNet) | Clearbooks |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | HR Software | Accounting Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $8/employee/mo | Contact for pricing |
| Best For | Small businesses focused on benefits administration | UK small businesses and sole traders wanting simple affordable accounting with strong VAT and MTD compliance |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Zenefits (now TriNet) Features
- ✓Benefits administration
- ✓payroll
- ✓time tracking
- ✓compliance
- ✓onboarding
Clearbooks Features
- ✓Invoicing
- ✓bank reconciliation
- ✓expense tracking
- ✓VAT returns
- ✓payroll
- ✓financial reporting
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Zenefits (now TriNet) if small businesses focused on benefits administration. Choose Clearbooks if uk small businesses and sole traders wanting simple affordable accounting with strong vat and mtd compliance.
Best For
Small businesses focused on benefits administration
Best For
UK small businesses and sole traders wanting simple affordable accounting with strong VAT and MTD compliance
Also Consider
If neither Zenefits (now TriNet) nor Clearbooks is the right fit, Justworks is worth evaluating.
Justworks
Small businesses wanting Fortune 500 benefits
From $59/employee/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Zenefits (now TriNet) and Clearbooks?
Zenefits (now TriNet) is best for small businesses focused on benefits administration. Clearbooks is best for uk small businesses and sole traders wanting simple affordable accounting with strong vat and mtd compliance.
Which is better, Zenefits (now TriNet) or Clearbooks?
Choose Zenefits (now TriNet) if small businesses focused on benefits administration. Choose Clearbooks if uk small businesses and sole traders wanting simple affordable accounting with strong vat and mtd compliance.
How much does Zenefits (now TriNet) cost?
Zenefits (now TriNet) starts at $8/employee/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Clearbooks cost?
Visit Clearbooks website for current pricing.
Who should use Zenefits (now TriNet)?
Small businesses focused on benefits administration
Who should use Clearbooks?
UK small businesses and sole traders wanting simple affordable accounting with strong VAT and MTD compliance