Payroll service for small businesses

Payroll services: get your salary right, every time

Take home more and stress less. Crunch’s payroll service means that you pay yourself the smart way. Running payroll isn’t just about paying wages. For Limited Company directors it’s also about finding the right balance between paying yourself enough and minimising unnecessary tax bills.

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“The Crunch accountants were incredibly helpful in explaining how to run our first payroll and how dividends work as a new startup business. Their clear guidance made the process much easier to understand. I highly recommend!”
Faye

Payroll software, built into your Crunch account

Crunch Payroll gives you everything you need to stay compliant and pay your team on time. It’s fast, reliable, and keeps all your payroll details in one place.

With our payroll software for small businesses, you can:

Run monthly payroll for directors and employees.

Automatically calculate Employer National Insurance.

Submit Real Time Information (RTI) to HMRC.

Get year end ready with tools for P60s and P11Ds.

Generate and download payslips.

Track payments and access reports whenever you need them.

Stay ahead of changing payroll rules.

Do it all in your Crunch account! No extra accounts needed.

Graphic showing mockups of software with crunch team members

Why choose Crunch for payroll services?

  • Crunch is built for small businesses, whether you’re paying just yourself or a growing team.
  • Everything’s included in your Crunch account—no extra software needed.
  • Our HMRC-recognised software keeps you compliant and up to date.
  • It handles complex setups too, including IR35 and CIS.

And when you need help, our UK-based accounting experts are ready to step in.

Want to take payroll off your to-do list?

Crunch payroll software handles the basics like filing your director’s salary and helping you stay tax smart with support whenever you need it. And the best part? It’s all handled within your Crunch account, with no extra tools or software required.

As your business grows, so can the complexity of payroll. From higher salaries to IR35 or CIS. Our Payroll Service takes the stress off your plate.

We run payroll, file everything on time and make sure nothing falls through the cracks so you can focus on growing your business

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Smart payroll for Small Business

Crunch’s payroll software for small businesses handles tax, pensions, student loans and more. It’s everything you need to stay compliant, with expert support when you need it.

Accounting and payroll software in one

With Crunch’s accounting and payroll software, you can see profits in real time, pay yourself a smart salary, and stay within HMRC’s rules. No juggling tools or logins.

Best All-in-One small business accounting solution 2025 - UK enterprise awardsBest accounting software for small businesses in the UK for real advisors  - Techradar.Accounting tech of the year finalists - UK fintech awards 2025

Payroll

Service

£18+VAT
AS AN ADD ON
Included:
Payroll for 1-5 employees
Process streamlined & HMRC recognised
Smart software being Tax-efficient
We speak with you for ultimate peace of mind
Umbrella payments and IR35 compliance
Chat to an expert
Love the tech platform - super easy to use, and gives me a straightforward view of all of the necessary payroll and accounting information for my business.

Sam

The system is very easy to use from which, behind the scenes all the complexities are taken care of such as filing various documents/returns, invoice management, processing payroll, syncing with bank accounts and reconciling expenses. The service covers everything a business needs to manage their business finances.

Donnie

I really love the system and software. It's highly intuitive and helps me a lot, even though I'm not generally good at accounting. I can confidently say that I've learned a lot about accounting because of Crunch. The team is outstanding, whether we're talking about Customer Services teams, Accounting teams, or Payroll. Every person is exceptional, chosen, outstanding, extremely competent in their field, highly professional, patient, and kind.
I've been with Crunch for more than 5 years and they have always been incredibly knowledgeable, helpful, and responsive. They have helped me with my IT consulting limited company, including setting up a second one, payroll, as well as giving great advice on my and my wife's personal tax and self-assessment returns.

Andrew

Lady working at a computer

Ready for accounting that pays for itself?

With Crunch, accounting isn’t just another business cost—it’s a smart investment. Our expert team helps you stay compliant and spot tax-saving opportunities along the way. From claiming expenses to using allowances properly, we’ll help you keep more of what you earn.

Frequently asked questions

Explore our FAQs for quick answers to your questions

Do I need to run payroll if I’m a company director?

Yes. Even if you pay yourself a salary below theNational Insurance threshold you’ll still usually need to run payroll because HMRC requires you to file Real Time Information (RTI) submissions each time you pay yourself. If you have other employees, payroll is also necessary. Our payroll software for small businesses makes this process straightforward—and if you’re unsure about your specific situation, our Advisors or your Dedicated Service Team can help you decide what’s right for your setup.

Why would I take a salary above the National Insurance threshold?

There are good reasons to take a higher salary. It might help you qualify for better benefits like maternity pay, support mortgage applications, or be necessary if you’re working as an IR35 contractor through your Limited Company. Just remember, paying above the threshold means both you and your company will pay National Insurance Contributions. We’d recommend reviewing our article “How much should I take as a salary from my Limited Company?” for more information.

What if I have more than one director or employees?

If your company has two or more directors or employees, you might be eligible for Employment Allowance. This can reduce your Employer NIC bill by up to £10,500 (subject to rules). Our team can help you check your eligibility. Our payroll services team can help you check if you qualify.

How do I know if I should upgrade to the Payroll Service?

If you're just paying yourself a tax-efficient salary, our payroll software has you covered. But if things get more complex—like running payroll for employees, dealing with IR35, CIS, or higher salaries—our upgraded Payroll Service gives you hands-on support and takes care of all filings for you.

Where can I find guidance on hiring employees?

We’ve put together a helpful Knowledge article on the basics of taking on employees and tips on finding the right people for your business. Check them out and get started confidently.

How does Crunch Payroll handle tax filings?

Our payroll software for small businesses submits all required Real Time Information (RTI) filings directly to HMRC, keeping you compliant without the hassle. If you upgrade to the Payroll Service, we handle all filings for you, including year-end reports like P60s and P11Ds.

Can I use Crunch Payroll if I’m self-employed but don’t have a Limited Company?

Crunch’s payroll software for small businesses is specifically designed for Limited Companies and their directors. If you’re self-employed as a Sole Trader, payroll isn’t required. Need help figuring out what’s right for you? Our advisors are here to guide you.

What happens if my payroll situation changes?

Whether you hire more employees, take a higher salary, or face complex tax rules like IR35 or CIS, Crunch grows with you. You can upgrade your service level anytime to get the extra support you need.

How easy is it to access payslips and payroll info?

With Crunch Payroll, you can view your payroll details and download payslips anytime, anywhere — all from your online Crunch account. No waiting, no paperwork.

What support do I get with Crunch Payroll?

You get expert help from qualified UK accountants who understand small business payroll. Whether it’s a quick question or detailed advice, we’re here to make payroll simple.

Still have questions?

Take control of your accounts, today

Crunch’s effective software package includes being able to talk to an expert client manager and a Chartered Certified Accountant. You can count on Crunch to make you productive and profitable.