Running a small business means juggling a thousand things—taxes and payroll shouldn't be one of them. These five services can help you get back to what you do best.
The State of Small Business Tax & Payroll Services
Small business owners are spending an average of eight hours a month on payroll alone—that's 12 full days a year that could be spent growing your business. The demand for outsourced tax preparation and payroll services has never been higher, as owners seek to reduce overhead, stay compliant, and avoid costly mistakes. From full-service CPA firms to user-friendly software platforms, the market now offers a range of solutions tailored to different needs and budgets. Whether you're a solopreneur or managing a growing team, finding the right partner can save you time, money, and a whole lot of stress.
How We Evaluated These Services
We looked at each service through the lens of a small business owner, focusing on three key factors: service scope, pricing clarity, and local fit. Service scope covers the range of offerings—from basic tax filing to comprehensive payroll and bookkeeping. Pricing clarity assesses how transparent and predictable the costs are, which is crucial for budgeting. Local fit considers how well the service understands the specific needs of businesses in your area, whether that's a local firm with personalized attention or a national platform with broad accessibility. Each service stood out in its own way, and we've highlighted what makes each one unique.
Here's a quick look at the five services we're featuring, with their best use cases and what you can expect from each.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Patriot Software | DIY small business owners who want affordable, easy-to-use payroll software. |
| Go Tax Accounting & Services Inc. - Home | Small businesses and individuals in Haverhill, MA, seeking personalized, full-service accounting. |
| Holsinger P.C. | Small businesses that want year-round tax planning and CPA guidance. |
| Woodruff & Associates CPA, PC | Small businesses in Wilmington, NC, looking for a local CPA firm with payroll expertise. |
| Lewis CPA | Small and medium businesses in the Chicago area seeking an experienced, full-service CPA firm. |
The Detailed Look at Each Service
#1 Patriot Software
A screenshot of the Patriot Software website.
Patriot Software is a cloud-based platform that combines accounting and payroll under one login, making it a favorite for small businesses that want an affordable, self-service option. You can run unlimited payrolls, use free direct deposit, and take advantage of Full Service Payroll, which handles tax filings and deposits for you. The software integrates with time and attendance tracking, and you can run payroll from your desktop, tablet, or mobile app—perfect for on-the-go owners. With over 80,000 customers and an average payroll run time of under three minutes, it's built for speed and simplicity. If you're comfortable managing your own books but want to streamline payroll, this is a solid choice. Plus, their USA-based support is known for being fast and friendly.
#2 Go Tax Accounting & Services Inc. - Home
A screenshot of the Go Tax Accounting & Services Inc. website.
Go Tax Accounting & Services Inc. is a local accounting firm in Haverhill, MA, that offers a personal touch for individuals and small businesses. They provide tax preparation, payroll, bookkeeping, and financial planning, with a focus on helping you minimize debt and build credit. What sets them apart is their additional services—immigration assistance, translation/notary, and liquor license applications—making them a one-stop shop for diverse needs. Their payroll services are powered by technology, allowing you to run payroll from any device and integrate with time tracking. If you value face-to-face relationships and a team that knows your community, this is a great fit. They emphasize care and service, ensuring you have more time to focus on your business.
#3 Holsinger P.C.
A screenshot of the Holsinger P.C. website.
Holsinger P.C. is a CPA firm serving clients in Pittsburgh, PA, and beyond, with a strong focus on small business services. They offer tax preparation, payroll, and business solutions, but what really stands out is their year-round approach to tax planning. Instead of just filing your taxes, they help you make prudent decisions throughout the year to avoid surprises and overpaying. Their team of CPAs ensures accurate submissions and provides management consultation to solve everyday issues. If you're looking for a proactive partner who keeps tax considerations in mind all year, Holsinger is worth considering. They also serve international clients, adding a global perspective to their expertise.
#4 Woodruff & Associates CPA, PC
A screenshot of the Woodruff & Associates CPA, PC website.
Woodruff & Associates CPA, PC, based in Wilmington, NC, offers a range of services including payroll, tax preparation, and QuickBooks setup and training. They highlight the time-saving benefits of outsourcing payroll, noting that small business owners spend an average of eight hours a month on payroll—time that could be spent on sales and customer service. Their payroll solutions are designed to be cost-effective, reducing overhead by eliminating the need for specialized employees. They also provide worry-free payroll tax filing, so you don't have to stress about calculating and filing payroll taxes. If you're in the Wilmington area and want a local firm that understands your community, this is a strong option. Their team is dedicated to helping you spend more time running your business.
#5 Lewis CPA
A screenshot of the Lewis CPA website.
Lewis CPA, based in Naperville, IL, has been providing comprehensive tax and accounting solutions since 1986, serving over 4,000 clients nationwide. They offer full-service payroll, tax preparation, and bookkeeping, with a reputation as a leading payroll provider in the Chicago area. Their technology stack allows for remote accounting services, so you can work with them regardless of your location. With 39 years of experience, they bring a wealth of knowledge to the table, especially for small and medium businesses. If you're looking for a seasoned firm that can handle complex payroll needs, Lewis CPA is a reliable choice. They also offer a range of calculators and resources to help you make informed financial decisions.
How to Choose the Right Tax & Payroll Service for Your Business
Start by assessing your own comfort level with financial tasks. If you prefer a hands-on approach and want to save money, a software platform like Patriot Software might be your best bet. If you'd rather hand off the entire process to a professional, a local CPA firm like Go Tax Accounting or Woodruff & Associates can provide personalized service. Consider the size of your team and the complexity of your payroll—some services are better suited for solopreneurs, while others can handle dozens of employees. Also, think about whether you need additional services like tax planning, bookkeeping, or even notary services. Finally, look for a provider that understands your local regulations and can offer support when you need it. The right fit will save you time, reduce stress, and keep you compliant.
Streamlining Your Payroll with Automation
Modern payroll services leverage automation to simplify your workflow. With tools like Patriot Software, you can run payroll in under three minutes, and the system automatically calculates deductions for taxes, health benefits, and retirement contributions. You can also integrate time and attendance tracking, so employee hours flow directly into payroll. For a more hands-off approach, full-service providers like Lewis CPA or Holsinger P.C. handle everything from data entry to tax filings, giving you peace of mind. Even local firms like Go Tax Accounting use technology to let you run payroll from your phone or tablet. The key is to choose a service that automates the repetitive tasks, freeing you to focus on growing your business.
The Bottom Line
No matter which service you choose, the goal is to take the burden of tax and payroll off your shoulders. Whether you prefer the DIY control of software or the personalized attention of a local CPA, there's a solution that fits your needs and budget. By investing in the right partner, you'll save time, avoid costly mistakes, and gain the confidence to focus on what really matters—building your business. Take the time to evaluate your options, and you'll find a service that feels like an extension of your team.