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Tracking employee time and attendance is crucial for any business using Quickbooks for payroll and accounting. A good time clock system integrated with Quickbooks saves time and reduces errors by automatically transferring punch data into payroll and job costing. But with the array of options on the market, how do you determine the best solution for your business?

In this article, we'll cover the key criteria to evaluate when selecting a time clock system for Quickbooks integration. We'll also provide concrete recommendations on some of the top systems based on features, pricing, and ease of use.

Key Criteria for Evaluating Time Clock Systems

 

Ease of Use

The system you choose should be intuitive for both managers and employees. Look for features like:

• Simple punch in/out methods via badge swipe, biometrics, or buttons
• Well-designed mobile app for clocking in/out
• Easy tools for reviewing timesheets, running reports, and making edits
• Minimal training required for staff to adopt the system

Mobile Access

The ability to clock in/out via a mobile app allows for greater flexibility for remote employees or mobile workforces. Key mobile features include:

• Native apps for iOS and Android
• GPS location tracking
• Geofencing to clock in when at a worksite
• Manager override capabilities in the mobile app

Advanced Features

Depending on your needs, more advanced features may be "must-haves" or just "nice-to-haves". Here are some to consider:

• OT pay calculations and alerts
• Facial recognition or fingerprint logins
• Shift scheduling and swap shifts
• Project tracking or job costing
• Reporting and analytics
• Notifications and reminders
• Compliance reporting

Scalability

Select a system that can scale up painlessly as your business grows. Look for:

• Enterprise or unlimited user plans
• Ability to add clocks, locations, departments, etc.
• Integrations with other HR systems

Budget

Time clock solutions range from simple free apps to robust systems costing over $100/month per user. Consider:

• Free or low-cost options if budget is a concern
• Tiered pricing plans to get premium features
• Custom quotes for large organizations

Top Time Clock Systems for Quickbooks

 

TSheets

TSheets is frequently rated as the top time clock app due to its robust feature set and ease of use. Highlights include:

• Mobile punch in/out with GPS tracking
• Seamless Quickbooks integration
• Scheduling, OT calculations, reporting
• Plans for all business sizes
• Exceptional customer support

Pricing starts at $8/user per month paid annually.

Homebase

Homebase is designed for smaller businesses on a budget. Notable features:

• Free plan available with basic features
• Paid plans starting at $10/month
• Quickbooks Online integration
• Easy shift management
• Modern mobile app

TimeStation

TimeStation stands out for its robust biometric hardware options. It offers:

• Facial recognition, fingerprint, and badge swipe clocks
• Advanced job costing and compliance
• Scales for businesses of any size
• Integration with Quickbooks Desktop and Online
• Modern web and mobile apps

Pricing is customized based on each business' needs.

Key Takeaways

 

Integrating a time clock system with Quickbooks can automate your payroll processes and provide greater visibility into your labor data. When evaluating options, focus on ease of use, mobile access, advanced features, scalability, and budget. Systems like TSheets, Homebase, and TimeStation provide excellent solutions at different price points.

Leveraging the right time tracking tools can save your business significant time and money. Use this guide to select the best Quickbooks-integrated system for your needs.