Sage Business Cloud Payroll Review (2025)
Discover Sage’s modern cloud payroll solution — designed for South African SMEs needing automation, compliance, and reliable payroll management.
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Quick Comparison — Sage vs PaySpace vs SimplePay vs QuickBooks Payroll
How Sage Payroll stacks up against top payroll platforms in South Africa (2025):
| Software | Best For | Key Strengths | Monthly Pricing (ZAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sage Payroll | SMEs needing compliance and integration | Local SARS compliance, automation, integration with Sage Accounting | From R199 |
| PaySpace | Enterprises & HR teams | Advanced HR tools, scalability, cloud reporting | From R240 |
| SimplePay | Small businesses | Ease of use, auto SARS updates | From R130 |
| QuickBooks Payroll | Freelancers & small firms | Simple setup, integrates with QuickBooks Accounting | From R150 |
Overview
Sage Business Cloud Payroll delivers an automated, accurate payroll experience. It calculates salaries, manages payslips, and ensures SARS compliance, all accessible securely online.
Key Features
- Automated Pay Runs: Calculates PAYE, UIF, and SDL automatically.
- SARS eFiling Integration: Submit EMP201 & EMP501 reports directly.
- Employee Self-Service: Employees can view payslips and leave balances.
- Leave Management: Track employee leave efficiently.
- Multi-Company Payroll: Manage multiple entities from one account.
- Cloud Access: Work securely from anywhere.
Pricing (2025)
| Plan | Price (ZAR) | Features Included |
|---|---|---|
| Essentials | R199/month | Basic payroll, payslips, compliance |
| Standard | R349/month | Employee portal, leave tracking, SARS filing |
| Premium | R499/month | Multi-company, reports, advanced automation |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✅ Full SARS compliance (PAYE, UIF, SDL)
- ✅ Seamless integration with Sage Accounting
- ✅ Automated processes reduce manual work
- ✅ Local support and tax table updates
Cons
- ❌ Limited advanced HR features compared to PaySpace
- ❌ Requires consistent internet connection
Regional Advantage — South Africa
- 🇿🇦 Local SARS submissions (EMP201, EMP501, UIF)
- 💰 ZAR currency & South African bank integration
- 📊 Connects directly with Sage Accounting
- 👨💼 Backed by Sage’s Pastel Payroll legacy
Final Verdict & Ratings
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.6 / 5)
Sage Payroll is ideal for South African SMEs seeking compliance, automation, and reliability — backed by a trusted brand with local expertise.
Top Tips for SMEs Using Sage Payroll
- 💡 Schedule payroll runs consistently to avoid delays.
- 💡 Reconcile payroll reports with bank statements monthly.
- 💡 Invite your accountant to collaborate in Sage Payroll for real-time oversight.
- 💡 Keep employee records updated to ensure correct PAYE and UIF calculations.
- 💡 Utilize training resources like Sage Payroll Training by Tafy Software to maximize efficiency.