We are pleased to announce that BrightPay Payroll Software 2025/26 for both Desktop and Cloud is available to download now. 

Due to a large number of calls and emails your wait time may be a little longer than usual. We appreciate your understanding during this busy period.

Click here to access our Year End Hub

Why BrightPay cloud

Starting in the 2026/27 tax year, BrightPay will be exclusively cloud-based. The desktop version will no longer receive updates, support, or legislative compliance.


Bright’s cloud solutions offer enhanced functionality, security, and a modern payroll experience. To stay at the forefront of innovation, we are focusing our development on advancing the platform, ensuring a seamless transition for users.

Please see our Frequently Asked Questions about moving to BrightPay cloud, feature comparison, Connect and support. Our download our pdf version here

 

FAQs: Why BrightPay cloud?

 

Q Why will BrightPay for Windows be discontinued after the 2025/26 tax year?

A As payroll processes evolve, compliance requirements grow, and businesses demand greater efficiency, transitioning BrightPay entirely
to the cloud ensures a future where you will have seamless access to the latest tools and automation. This move allows us to focus on delivering continuous innovation without disruption – helping you manage payroll more efficiently and stay ahead in an ever- evolving landscape.

 

Q Where can I find out more information about BrightPay cloud?

A To find out more information about BrightPay cloud, please visit: www.brightsg.com/brightpay-cloud- payroll-software/

 

Q Will BrightPay Connect also be discontinued?

A Yes. From the start of the 2026/27 BrightPay Connect will no longer be available with bureau desktop licences. Please note, starting 2025/26, BrightPay Connect is not available with BrightPay desktop standard licences.

 

Q Is BrightPay for Mac available for 2025/26?

A No. As previously communicated to BrightPay for Mac customers, this version of BrightPay will not be available from the start of 2025/26 tax year. BrightPay for Mac customers have the option to move to the cloud version now or choose to move to BrightPay for Windows for the 2025/26 tax year. For more information on BrightPay for Mac, please visit this page.

 

Q Should I make the move to BrightPay cloud now or do I have to wait until the 26/27 tax year?

Yes, you should make the move for the 2025/26 tax year unless you rely on any of the following features:
• Construction Industry Scheme (CIS)
• Have more than 300 employees per employers (including leavers)
To understand the full feature parity, please click here to view a side-by-side view of the feature comparison of BrightPay cloud and BrightPay for Windows and BrightPay Connect.

 

Q Can I book a demo of BrightPay cloud?

A Yes, to book a demo of BrightPay cloud click here. 

 

 

Need help? Support is available at 0345 9390019 or brightpayuksupport@brightsg.com.

Moving to BrightPay cloud25-26 BrightPay - System Requirements25-26 BrightPay - DownloadIntroduction to BrightPayImportant Information for Mac UsersStarting the New Tax YearImporting From The Previous Tax YearInstalling BrightPayMoving to BrightPay from another payroll softwareBureau Enhancements - Useful Functionality for Bureau Licence HoldersEmployer DetailsEmployee DetailsCoding NoticesPayroll CalendarProcessing PayrollImporting Pay Data using CSV FileDistributing PayslipsPaying EmployeesRTICommon HMRC Error MessagesAnalysisPayroll JournalsHMRC PaymentsMaking Corrections to PayrollScheduling Future PaymentsSwitching an Employee's Pay FrequencyDirectorsOff-Payroll Working (IR35)StartersLeaversStudent Loan DeductionsPostgraduate Loan DeductionsAttachment of EarningsExpenses & BenefitsPensions (outside of Automatic Enrolment)Payroll GivingYear EndRates & Thresholds at a GlanceTaxMileage Allowance Payments (MAPs)Employment AllowanceApprenticeship LevyTermination Awards & Sporting TestimonialsGender Pay Gap ReportingLeave Reporting & Employee CalendarAnnual LeavePayslip TranslationsBacking Up/Restoring Your PayrollConstruction Industry Scheme (CIS)Automatic EnrolmentBrightPay ConnectGDPRBright Terms and Conditions and BrightPay End User Licence AgreementBright IDConnect v Cloud
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