The Potential of Payroll in 2026: Global Payroll Survey

Across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond, payroll is no longer simply the engine that ensures employees are paid on time. As regulatory environments grow more complex, cybersecurity threats intensify, and artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes how organisations operate, payroll leaders are being called upon to do far more. The pressure to deliver compliance, data integrity, workforce insight and employee experience simultaneously has never been greater – and the leaders navigating this environment are increasingly the ones shaping organisational strategy, not just supporting it. 

ADP's The Potential of Payroll in 2026: Global Payroll Survey draws on perspectives from 1,816 senior payroll stakeholders across 20 countries to offer a comprehensive view of where global payroll stands today and where it is headed. The white paper examines the critical challenges facing payroll functions – from skills gaps and cybersecurity resilience to AI adoption and global reporting – and provides data-driven guidance to help HR executives and payroll leaders build more connected, future-ready operations. 

Key Takeaways 

• Global skills shortages are accelerating transformation: 72% of organisations are reviewing how to deliver payroll with fewer people, with 44% exploring AI as a solution
• Cybersecurity threats are increasing in frequency: 70% of payroll leaders reported at least one cybersecurity incident impacting payroll operations in the past 24 months, up from 57% the year prior (ADP, 2026) 
• AI and automation are moving from aspiration to practice: approximately one-third of organisations are currently using AI for data entry, error detection and compliance management 
• Compliance complexity is costing organisations: 68% of payroll leaders incur penalties for non-compliance at least once or twice a year, while 69% overpay employees rather than risk a violation 
• Only 12% of organisations currently have full regional and global payroll reporting, revealing a significant opportunity to unlock workforce insights and improve forecasting accuracy 

The future of payroll belongs to those who treat it as a strategic asset. Download the white paper now to understand where your organisation stands – and what steps can drive meaningful transformation.