Running a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME) in Singapore comes with its fair share of challenges. From managing tight budgets to juggling compliance requirements, business owners are constantly looking for smarter ways to operate. One area that often becomes a pain point is HR and payroll management.
For many SMEs, the first thought is to explore the Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG), which subsidizes digital solutions like HR software. But what if your business isn’t eligible? Or what if you want to avoid the hassle of grant applications, approvals, and upfront payments? The truth is you don’t need PSG to afford a reliable HR and payroll system. Affordable options exist, and choosing the right provider means you won’t lose out on features or support.
What Is an HR and Payroll System?
At its core, an HR and payroll system is designed to simplify people management. It helps businesses handle everything from employee data and attendance records to CPF contributions, salary disbursements, and tax reporting.
Without such a system, many SMEs still rely on manual spreadsheets. While this might work in the early days, errors and inefficiencies pile up as the team grows. An automated system ensures accuracy, saves hours of manual work, and reduces the risk of compliance mistakes with MOM regulations.
Why Singapore SMEs Seek Affordable Options Without PSG
PSG is helpful, but it’s not always the best fit for every SME. Some reasons include:
- Eligibility constraints – Not every company qualifies for PSG funding.
- Upfront cash flow – Businesses often need to pay first before claiming reimbursement.
- Time and paperwork – Applications, waiting periods, and compliance with grant conditions can slow down adoption.
- Flexibility – SMEs may want to onboard a system quickly without being tied to grant requirements.
For business owners who value agility, an affordable HR system that doesn’t depend on PSG can be a faster, simpler choice.
The Truth About Affordable HR Systems
There’s a misconception that “affordable” means “basic” or “limited.” In reality, a well-structured HR and payroll solution should deliver the same essential features you’d expect from higher-priced providers. These include:
- Automated payroll that handles CPF, overtime, and tax calculations accurately.
- Attendance tracking suited for shift work, flexible hours, or traditional schedules.
- Leave and scheduling management to avoid conflicts and confusion.
- Compliance support to stay aligned with MOM regulations.
- Employee self-service portals that empower staff and reduce admin workload.
With the right platform, SMEs get everything they need without overpaying for fancy add-ons they’ll never use.
Why HRMLabs Is Different
This is where HRMLabs comes in. Even at an affordable price point, HRMLabs ensures that Singapore SMEs don’t miss out on value.
Complete Features for SMEs – From payroll and CPF contributions to leave, scheduling, and attendance, HRMLabs covers all the essentials in one system.
Scalable and Flexible – Whether you’re running a 10-person team today or planning to grow to 50 employees, HRMLabs grows with your business.
Time-Saving Automation – Say goodbye to manual calculations every time salary structures, contributions, or taxes change. HRMLabs updates and automates for you.
Human-Centric Support – One of HRMLabs’ biggest strengths is its real human support. Unlike providers that leave you stuck with chatbots, HRMLabs connects you with actual people who understand payroll challenges in Singapore. This means you get guidance, not canned responses.
In short: you pay less, but you don’t get less. Instead, you gain peace of mind, efficiency, and support you can count on.
Real Benefits for SMEs Without PSG
Choosing HRMLabs without PSG means:
- You can get started immediately—no application delays.
- You pay only for what you need—no bloated pricing.
- You still get access to the same quality features and support as larger companies.
It’s a practical, no-frills approach that respects the needs of Singapore SMEs.
FAQ
Q: Can SMEs use HR and payroll software without PSG funding?
A: Yes. Affordable providers like HRMLabs make it possible for SMEs to access modern HR solutions without subsidies.
Q: Will I miss out on features if I choose a cheaper system?
A: Not with HRMLabs. You’ll still have full payroll automation, compliance tools, and employee management features.
Q: What’s unique about HRMLabs compared to others?
A: HRMLabs stands out with its human-centric support. Real people are always available to help with payroll and HR challenges, which many low-cost providers don’t offer.
Q: Is it worth going without PSG?
A: Absolutely. If your priority is speed, affordability, and flexibility, an HR and payroll system like HRMLabs ensures you don’t sacrifice quality for cost.
Conclusion
Affordable doesn’t have to mean barebones. For SMEs in Singapore, choosing HR and payroll software without PSG can be a smart, cost-effective move. With HRMLabs, you gain the automation, compliance assurance, and support your business needs, without unnecessary costs or complicated processes.
Paying less doesn’t mean you lose out. With HRMLabs, you get a system built for SMEs, backed by real human support to guide you every step of the way.
Ready to streamline HR and payroll without overpaying? Learn more about HRMLabs today!
