Looking for a Xero Payroll alternative?
Reckon costs over 50% less than Xero for Payroll
Save money: Cover 4 employees for $16/month versus Xero’s $35/month for 1
Why choose Reckon over Xero?
Better value, fair pricing, support when you need it, and a payroll app that lets you manage your business on the go.
Save big with Reckon
Reckon’s entry-level plan starts at just $16/month, compared to Xero’s starter tier at around $35/month – that’s 54% cheaper. Plus, every Reckon plan remains more affordable than Xero’s middle tier, giving your business exceptional value without ever compromising on the essential features you need to grow and manage your finances effectively.
Payroll on the go
With Reckon, you can manage payroll anytime, anywhere with the Reckon Payroll companion app – perfect for reviewing pays, approving timesheets, or paying staff on the move.
Xero doesn’t offer a dedicated payroll app meaning you’ll need to log in through the browser each time. Reckon keeps things simple, fast, and mobile-friendly so you can stay in control wherever you are.
More employees, same low price
Xero’s basic payroll only covers one employee – if you’ve got two or more, you’ll need to upgrade to their $75/month plan, plus $5 per extra person each month. With Reckon, payroll starts from just $16/month for up to 4 employees – making it an easy, affordable solution that grows with your business.
Support that’s actually there
*Pricing listed compares the monthly cost of Xero’s ‘Ignite’ and ‘Grow’ plans. Pricing lists at the standard price, correct as of November 2025.
Get more features for less
Xero “Grow” plan vs Reckon “Essentials” plan.
1 employee only
Up to 4 employees
Payroll companion app
Free phone support
$35.00
$16.00
*This table is in comparison to Xero’s “Ignite” plan, which includes payroll for 1 employee and Reckon’s ‘Payroll Essentials’ plan for up to 4 employees. Reckon’s unlimited free phone support is available during business hours. Data correct as of November 2025.
Helping thousands of businesses with their accounting
Migrate from Xero to Reckon for free
Moving your data from Xero to Reckon is quick and easy with our migration service. It’s free when you sign up for Reckon Plus or Premium plans.
There are a million reasons to love Reckon
Cancel at any time
Switch us off whenever you want. Your data is saved for 7 years.
Industry standard security
We use AES-256 bit encryption and multiple layers of firewalls to ensure your data is always protected.
Automatic backups & updates
Your data is safe, and you're always on the latest, cutting-edge cloud accounting software.
30 years in the accounting & payroll industry
We have earned the trust of over 100,000 businesses across Australia.
Data stored in Australia
Store your sensitive accounting software data here at home, under Australian law.
Connect with an expert
Your accountant or bookkeeper can now help your small business in real-time.
Convinced Reckon Payroll is the perfect Xero alternative for small businesses?
Try Reckon Payroll for free, cancel anytime.
