This guide covers details about ADP, including key features, pros and cons, pricing, and alternative tools.
Founded over 70 years ago, ADP is one of the most widely used payroll software solutions on the market. A number of large US companies, including Pfizer, T-Mobile and Dell, use ADP for their HR functions. ADP has a strong reputation as a leader in the payroll industry. The most widely used ADP features include payroll, recruiting, tax management, and employee attendance. ADP offers some key advantages, but may not be right for everyone. This review will help you determine if ADP is the right solution for your business.
This guide covers details about ADP, including key features, pros and cons, pricing, and alternative tools.
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Characteristics of ADP
Time and attendance tracking
ADP simplifies time tracking and tracking for HR professionals and employees. Businesses can install touchless kiosks to allow employees to clock in and out using voice and facial recognition software. Additionally, users can use the mobile app or their computer connected to the system to track time. A unique feature of ADP’s time and attendance tracking tool is that it allows companies to set up a scheduling system to help determine staffing needs. For example, ADP software will highlight where you want to add or remove a person to cover a shift.
Payroll statement
ADP’s payroll processing tools allow for automatic tax deductions, pension contributions and health insurance premiums. Users can edit payroll by entering data or manually entering the employee’s hours worked.

Payment deposits can be set up for direct deposit, paper checks or prepaid debit cards. Payroll taxes are calculated based on local, state and federal rates. ADP automatically generates W2s, 1099 forms, and other pay-related documents. You’ll also have access to several types of payroll and HR reports that you can filter based on tax withholdings, net wages, or other parameters.
New hire report
New recruitment reporting tools enable companies to meet compliance requirements. This means you can use ADP to complete all the necessary paperwork for new hires. You don’t need to keep track of different laws for new employees, as the ADP team will handle it for you.
ADP mobile app
ADP mobile app is one of its standout features. The app is designed for HR professionals and workers. HR managers can use it to approve time-off requests, set schedules, and perform other HR functions. Employees can use the app to track time, request leave, view payment details and more.

The pros of ADP
- Scalability for companies looking to grow.
- Great mobile app.
- Complete HR suite.
- High level of customization.
Disadvantages of ADP
- Expensive for small businesses.
- Non-transparent pricing.
- The initial setup can be confusing.
- No free trial.
ADP pricing
ADP does not disclose its pricing on the website. You must contact their sales team or start the online quote process to get custom pricing based on your needs. Many packages and options are available so you can choose which features you want to include. Most packages include basic features like time tracking and automated tax filing, while advanced plans will consist of features like accounting consolidations and new hire reporting.
How does ADP work?
ADP’s goal is to help streamline HR processes, making them more efficient and reliable. It does this by automating payroll to avoid costly mistakes. This includes calculating payroll taxes and making sure it meets local, state and federal compliance requirements. ADP integrates with other HR, accounting and time tracking applications to help businesses use multiple solutions for their needs. There is also a self-service app for employees to change their personal information, view pay stubs or request leave. ADP’s advanced functionality allows businesses to fully automate employee data synchronization and expert support from a certified professional.
Alternatives to ADP
Here are some of the top ADP alternatives:
Heat
Gusto is one of the leading HR and payroll software. It is more suitable for startups and small businesses with a mix of employees and contractors. Some of the additional features Gusto offers include a wallet to help employees track their expenses and an automated charity donation tool.
Papaya Global
Papaya Global is ideal for businesses that need a global alternative to ADP. It offers a single platform for payroll management and other HR tools for more than 160 countries. Additionally, the solution provides industry insights and is easily scalable to meet the needs of a growing company.
Paycor
Paycor operates as a comprehensive human capital management solution that offers a variety of HR tools. Basic plans include new hire reporting, tax filing and payroll. Higher-tier plans provide access to compliance support, employee benefits, and other advanced HR tools.
Who is ADP best for?
ADP offers a variety of features, making it ideal for small, medium and large businesses. However, the pricing structure makes it more suitable for companies with more than 50 employees. It is also great for growing businesses as they can easily scale functionality by adding advanced features to their package. For example, companies can start with the basic plan that includes payroll participants and employees, and as the business grows, they can get advanced features like HR support and integrations. However, ADP is not recommended for small businesses with a limited budget or companies looking for free in-depth testing, as ADP does not offer.
Review methodology
This ADP review was based on evaluating ADP’s features against competitors, pricing structure, potential drawbacks, and limitations. In addition, we looked at many elements such as the user interface, payroll, reporting and third-party integrations. We also studied customer reviews to get independent reviews.