The winners of the 2026 Payroll Awards were announced during HR.com's Future of Payroll Virtual Event on February 11, honoring outstanding achievements in payroll management, strategy, and implementation. This year's award recipients represent exceptional solutions, programs, and individuals who have made a significant impact in a rapidly evolving work environment. From navigating shifting labor laws to leveraging AI and emerging technologies, these winners have demonstrated innovation, excellence, and a commitment to advancing the HR profession.
Instant Financial was named Payroll Solution of the Year for transforming how hourly workers get paid by providing daily access to wages and tips at no cost. Its platform, which combines earned wage access, digital tips, and instant pay via banks, mobile wallets, or paycards, serves the restaurant, hospitality, retail, healthcare, and staffing industries. This recognition highlights the company's commitment to innovation, responsible financial solutions, and improving employee financial wellness while supporting recruitment and retention.
Otsuka America, Inc., Payroll Center of Excellence (PCOE) earned Payroll Team of the Year honors. Under the leadership of Amanda Kassler and Gladys Ospina, the Payroll Centre of Excellence has set a new benchmark for modern payroll operations. Their strategic transformation, measurable impact, and commitment to innovation and scalability exemplify payroll excellence. From governance and compliance to advancing the payroll profession, the team's work reflects the gold standard in payroll operations, delivering significant value every day.
Crystal Diaz, Sr. Human Resources Generalist at McCoy Rockford, was recognized as Payroll Professional of the Year for her strategic leadership, innovation, and commitment to compliance and employee impact. Her ability to deliver results at scale while maintaining high standards highlights her as a leader who makes a positive difference every day. Additional award information is available at www.hr.com/awards.
"Payroll management and technology are critical drivers of business success," said HR.com CEO Debbie McGrath. "Accurate, efficient payroll operations not only ensure compliance and employee satisfaction but also empower organizations to innovate, scale, and compete in today's rapidly changing workforce. Congratulations to the winners and nominees!"
The awards matter because they spotlight solutions addressing pressing workforce challenges, such as financial stress among hourly workers and the need for scalable, compliant payroll systems. For industries like hospitality and retail, technologies like earned wage access can directly impact employee retention and financial well-being. For businesses globally, these innovations demonstrate how strategic payroll management can enhance operational efficiency and support growth in an era of evolving labor regulations and technological disruption.
