Zenefits (now TriNet) vs Patriot Payroll
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.
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.
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
- ✓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
Zenefits (now TriNet) vs Patriot Payroll: Side by Side
| Factor | Zenefits (now TriNet) | Patriot Payroll |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | HR Software | Payroll Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $8/employee/mo | $17/mo + $4/person |
| Best For | Small businesses focused on benefits administration | Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Zenefits (now TriNet) Features
- ✓Benefits administration
- ✓payroll
- ✓time tracking
- ✓compliance
- ✓onboarding
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
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Zenefits (now TriNet) if small businesses focused on benefits administration. Choose Patriot Payroll if very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution.
Best For
Small businesses focused on benefits administration
Best For
Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution
Also Consider
If neither Zenefits (now TriNet) nor Patriot Payroll 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 Patriot Payroll?
Zenefits (now TriNet) is best for small businesses focused on benefits administration. Patriot Payroll is best for very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution.
Which is better, Zenefits (now TriNet) or Patriot Payroll?
Choose Zenefits (now TriNet) if small businesses focused on benefits administration. Choose Patriot Payroll if very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution.
How much does Zenefits (now TriNet) cost?
Zenefits (now TriNet) starts at $8/employee/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Patriot Payroll cost?
Patriot Payroll starts at $17/mo + $4/person. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Zenefits (now TriNet)?
Small businesses focused on benefits administration
Who should use Patriot Payroll?
Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution