Roll by ADP Review 2023: Chat-Based Mobile App With Well-Rounded Payroll Features

Managing payroll may be a chore, but Roll by ADP does its best to add innovation and a little fun to the task. This unique, chat-based payroll app lets you run payroll with text commands and minimal data entry. If you’re looking for solid payroll features that can be initiated from your phone, you’ll find them with Roll by ADP.

Launched in February 2021, Roll can accommodate from one to to 100 employees and is backed by ADP, one of the largest payroll companies in the U.S. If, however, you want HR and employee benefits management along with your payroll features, they aren’t offered by Roll.

Deciding factors

How does Roll payroll work?

Roll can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play to your mobile device. After opening the app and creating your account, you’ll be asked to enter basic company information and provide employee and compensation details.

You can type “run my payroll” to start running payroll or “hire employee” to initiate the process for adding an employee. Text commands can also be used to give an employee a raise or bonus.

You’ll receive payroll alerts that remind you when it’s time to do payroll, and a to-do timeline provides a list of upcoming tasks along with the ones you’ve completed.

» MORE: NerdWallet's best payroll software for small businesses

Plan pricing and features

Benefits

Solid payroll features

Roll runs payroll in multiple states, pays workers who live and work in different states, and accommodates a workforce made up of employees and contractors — challenges some competitors can’t match. It also calculates, files and deposits your federal, state and local payroll taxes as well as W-2 year-end filings, but you’ll need to file 1099s yourself. Round out Roll’s features with off-cycle payment options, timely alerts, unlimited live chat support and AI-driven error checks, and you have a payroll app with solid features and an innovative interface.

Inexpensive with nearly zero commitment

Roll is a low-cost payroll option at $29 a month plus $5 per employee per month. You can try it for free for three months, and it doesn’t require a contract. Just give 30 days' notice before canceling your account.

» MORE: NerdWallet’s best apps for small businesses

Drawbacks

Lacking benefits and human resources tools

While Roll does handle employee benefits deductions, it lacks tools to help you manage medical insurance, health savings accounts, flexible spending accounts and 401(k) plans. Functions for time, attendance and PTO are missing and more advanced features like recruiting and onboarding aren’t available either.

Limited integrations

Roll only integrates with QuickBooks Online, so you’re out of luck if you use other accounting software. However, you can send your payroll register in an Excel format to your bookkeeper or accountant.

Alternatives

Payroll4Free

Payroll4Free is a low-cost payroll processing app with free basic services when paying 25 or fewer employees. Free basic services include payroll processing, tax calculations, direct deposits to employees from your own bank and unlimited live customer support. Data can be imported from time-tracking software, and deductions and contributions for benefits, retirement and garnishments can be set up. Employees have access to their personal info through an online portal and can print pay stubs and W-2s. Fees apply if you need Payroll4Free to file and pay your payroll taxes, to use its bank for employee direct deposits, or if you pay more than 25 employees. A Windows operating system is needed to use the software.

Square Payroll