Answer
From 1 January 2026, we updated the structure of our standard (non-agent) subscription plans. These changes affect the number of companies/entities you can manage in Lightning Payroll, based on your subscription tier.
What Changed?
Previously, all standard subscription levels included up to 10 companies. Each tier now includes a smaller number of companies:
- Small: up to 5 employees and up to 2 companies
- Medium: up to 30 employees and up to 2 companies
- Large: up to 75 employees and up to 2 companies
- Extra Large: up to 150 employees and up to 2 companies
- Enterprise: unlimited employees and up to 5 companies
If you need more companies, you can add Extra Company Add-Ons to your subscription. Each add-on increases your company limit and costs $99 per year on an annual subscription, or $9.95 per month on a monthly subscription. You can raise a standard subscription up to a maximum of 10 companies. To manage more than 10 companies, you need an Agent subscription.
Why Did the Company Limits Change?
These adjustments keep Lightning Payroll fair and affordable. By refining the number of companies included in each tier, smaller businesses don't pay for capacity they don't need, while larger organisations are placed in tiers that better reflect their actual usage. This helps us maintain a sustainable pricing model and keep delivering the level of service and support our customers expect.
Does This Affect My Current Subscription?
If you renewed or purchased your subscription before 1 January 2026, you kept your existing company limit of 10 until your next renewal. The new limits apply from your next billing period after that date.
What If I'm Already Using More Than the New Limit?
If you are on a standard subscription and already use more companies than your tier allows, we notify you in the software. You'll see a short popup asking you to acknowledge the change and confirm your name for our records. This isn't a legal agreement, just a way for our support team to track who has been informed.
Are Agent Plans Changing?
No. Agent plans are not changing. They continue to support unlimited employees and offer packages for up to 25, 50, 100, or unlimited companies.
If you need help deciding the right plan or add-on for your business, please get in touch with our support team.
