When Software Says “Anyone Can Do Payroll” – But Should They?

“Easy.” “Simple.” “Anyone can do it.”

That’s how some payroll software vendors are still choosing to market their products. And while these phrases might be designed to appeal to busy business owners or finance managers looking to save time, they carry a hidden message — one that payroll professionals can’t afford to ignore.

Because when you tell the world that “anyone can do payroll,” what you’re really doing is devaluing a profession.

Who is this messaging really for?

It certainly doesn’t sound like it’s aimed at payroll practitioners — the people who’ve studied for years, stay up-to-date with constantly changing legislation, and know the risks of getting things wrong. It sounds like it’s aimed at business owners. It’s saying, “Don’t worry about the details. Just press a few buttons and you’re done.”

The reality? Payroll is anything but simple.

The truth about payroll

Payroll is technical, detailed, and legally sensitive work. It involves managing tax codes, pensions, maternity pay, statutory sick leave, RTI submissions, and deadlines that don’t move just because you’re busy. Mistakes can lead to penalties, upset employees, and reputational damage.

In a bureau setting, that complexity increases. We’re not managing one payroll. We’re managing many. Each client has their own deadlines, employee types, pay frequencies, pension providers, and priorities. Add onboarding, communication, and client education — and it becomes clear just how much skill is involved.

Software is a tool, not a substitute

At Be Payroll, we use payroll software every day. We value automation and tools that improve efficiency — but we also know that software is only ever as good as the person using it.

Software doesn’t replace the need for judgement, oversight, or context. It won’t chase missing timesheets, explain tax code changes, or ensure that your director is paid correctly. It can’t spot a pattern in errors or suggest a better way of processing. That’s the job of a payroll professional.

The danger of oversimplification

When software vendors imply that payroll can be done “cheaply” or “without training,” they set expectations that can’t be met safely. They encourage businesses to cut corners — or worse, to think that professional services are overpriced or unnecessary.

The risk here is more than just a few errors. It’s about undermining trust in payroll as a profession. It’s about telling skilled professionals that their work is worthless — and telling businesses that they don’t need to invest in proper support.

What we believe at Be Payroll

We believe in doing things properly. That means qualified professionals, clear processes, and strong relationships with our clients. Whether we’re supporting care homes, accountants, or construction firms, our aim is always the same: deliver reliable, compliant, and human payroll support.

We know what’s at stake — from PAYE to pensions, from HMRC to the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS). Our service is tailored, responsive, and backed by real people who know what they’re doing. We don’t cut corners, and we don’t treat your payroll like an afterthought.

Let’s value payroll properly

Payroll is a profession. Let’s start treating it like one. That means fair pay for those who do it, realistic expectations from those who use it, and thoughtful conversations about how we use software to support professionals — not replace them.

At Be Payroll, we work with clients who understand the importance of getting it right — and who know that a qualified partner is worth more than the cheapest price tag.