Childcare payroll software is a specialized tool designed to help childcare centers and preschools manage staff wages, track hours, calculate taxes, and stay compliant with employment regulations, all tailored to the unique needs of the early education industry.

To get access to payroll, start here: https://mybrightwheel.com/payroll/#payroll-form-cta

Note: Payroll in brightwheel is not yet available for some programs, including multi-sites. Fill out this form to be the first to know when it’s available.

If you’re new to brightwheel, you’ll get a personalized demo and quote of brightwheel first. If you already use brightwheel, you’ll be directed to learn more about our payroll offering.

If you currently use Gusto for payroll, submit a request to connect your brightwheel and Gusto accounts here: https://schools.mybrightwheel.com/staff/payroll

If you use a different payroll provider or are just getting started with payroll, learn more about brightwheel’s payroll solution by starting here: https://mybrightwheel.com/payroll/#payroll-form-cta

Payroll pricing varies to best meet your needs. Visit gusto.com/product/pricing to learn more about Gusto’s flexible pricing plans with no hidden fees.

Childcare payroll software eliminates time-consuming manual tasks like calculating staff hours on spreadsheets, figuring out taxes by hand, preparing paper checks, and tracking different pay rates for part-time or substitute staff. Instead, it automates payroll calculations, handles tax filings, reduces errors, and saves you hours each pay period—giving you more time to focus on your program and the children you serve.

Unlike generic payroll systems, brightwheel payroll is built specifically for childcare providers and integrates seamlessly with brightwheel’s other tools like communication, billing, daily reports, and attendance, giving you a single platform to manage your entire program efficiently.

Yes. All local, state, and federal payroll taxes are automatically calculated, filed, and paid. W-2s and 1099s are automatically issued and sent to your employees and contractors as well.

Every plan comes with unlimited payroll runs. You’ll never be charged extra for things like off-cycle payrolls.

Yes, administrators can view all edits made to timecards for transparency and accountability. This includes details on who created the timecard, who made the updates, when they were made, and what changes occurred.

Brightwheel offers tracking for both paid and unpaid time off for all staff members. Time off is automatically reflected in schedules for both administrators and staff, removing the need for manual tracking. Staff can view their total time off hours (both paid and unpaid) directly from the mobile app, and you can easily access upcoming and past time off events, including summaries of time off by type and by staff member.

If you have a question about something happening inside brightwheel’s childcare app, please contact our Support team at support@mybrightwheel.com.

For any payroll related activities happening inside Gusto’s payroll app, please reach out to Gusto’s Support team at gusto.com/about/contact.