Top 20 Alternatives to Wave Accounting (Payroll) in Accounting Software for Self‑Employed

Wave Accounting offers free invoicing and low‑cost payroll for freelancers and solo entrepreneurs. Below are 20 alternative accounting platforms that include payroll or robust payment‑processing features tailored for the self‑employed.

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Top Competitors to Consider

Integrated bookkeeping, mileage tracking, and optional payroll add‑on for freelancers.

User‑friendly invoicing and time‑tracking with third‑party payroll integrations (e.g., Gusto).

#4 Xero

Cloud‑based accounting with built‑in payroll for the US, Canada, and UK, plus extensive app marketplace.

Comprehensive accounting suite with optional payroll module for US businesses.

#6 Kashoo

Simple accounting for freelancers with payroll integration via Gusto.

#7 Gusto

Full‑service payroll, benefits, and HR platform designed for solo entrepreneurs and small teams.

Payroll solution that syncs with Square POS, ideal for self‑employed merchants.

Low‑cost payroll processing with easy setup for freelancers and contractors.

#10 OnPay

Straightforward payroll with automatic tax filing, suited for solo business owners.

Online payroll service with simple pricing and support for independent contractors.

Payroll add‑on for QuickBooks Online, offering automatic tax calculations and direct deposit.

Scalable payroll and HR platform that works for solo entrepreneurs as well as growing teams.

Accounting software with optional payroll module for small businesses and freelancers.

#15 ZipBooks

Free accounting core with paid payroll integration via Gusto.

#16 FreeAgent

UK‑focused accounting with payroll capabilities for self‑employed professionals.

#17 KashFlow

UK cloud accounting with built‑in payroll for small businesses and freelancers.

Free accounting for freelancers with optional payroll through partner integrations.

Designed for gig‑economy workers; includes invoicing, expense tracking, and optional payroll.

Simple, low‑cost accounting with payroll add‑on for solo entrepreneurs.

Standalone payroll solution that integrates seamlessly with Zoho Books for freelancers.