Labor costs for your construction business can account for a significant portion of your budget, making payroll an important priority. Tracking wages, overtime, taxes and other payroll details is complicated; choosing an online payroll service can reduce paperwork and free time while helping you meet payroll obligations accurately.
CoConstruct
CoConstruct is a popular construction-focused platform that uses a GPS-enabled time clock to track employee hours automatically, so you and your crew no longer need paper time sheets. The time clock works on mobile devices and laptops, and data is accessible from desktop, tablet or phone; the software also supports project estimates and budgets.
ComputerEase
ComputerEase lets you classify employees by individual wage rates, print completed wage reports and integrate payroll with total job cost. Its cloud-based accounting and payroll tools help reduce errors, stay consistent with accounting practices and lower liability, which is useful when you’re on the go between job sites.
FOUNDATION Construction Accounting
FOUNDATION provides a payroll module built for construction firms, available as cloud-based or on-premise software. It handles simple and complex payroll needs — including union wages and multi-state calculations — and simplifies timecards while giving quick access to accurate payroll reports.
Sage 100 Contractor
Sage 100 Contractor offers customizable payroll options with two service levels. Sage People posts payroll transactions to the general ledger and includes HR features, while Sage Payroll Management and Processing provides comprehensive payroll services suited to midsize or larger companies.
Spectrum
Spectrum is a cloud-based accounting system that supports payroll and general ledger management for construction businesses of many sizes. Its iOS and Android apps let you track labor and equipment usage in the field, with mobile entries used to calculate payroll and manage HR details.
Additional considerations
These options are all geared to the construction industry, but other payroll providers might fit your company differently; request a demo and try the software or app to ensure it meets your needs and is easy to use. If you want personalized help, talk to an agent.
Also make sure your construction liability coverage and related policies are current; consider reviewing specialty exposures such as Forklift Service Insurance for equipment risks and consult more general options like Service Agencies Insurance as appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do GPS time clocks help payroll accuracy?
GPS time clocks record hours and location automatically, reducing manual entry errors and making it easier to verify on-site time for payroll and job costing.
Can construction payroll handle union or multi-state rules?
Yes — many construction-focused payroll modules support union wage rates and multi-state tax calculations, but confirm these features during a demo.
Should I use cloud-based or on-premise payroll software?
Cloud-based systems offer remote access and automatic updates, while on-premise software may appeal if you require local control; choose based on your IT preferences and mobility needs.
What records should I keep for payroll compliance?
Keep timecards, payroll registers, tax filings and benefit deductions for the period required by law and your accounting practices to support audits and reporting.