You can manually download and install Sage 50 Payroll, or use the automatic update prompt when you open your software.

For help to use the automatic update prompt, follow the steps below.

Before you install v31

We recommend that you carry out the preparation steps below.

• Check your antivirus software to avoid conflicts with Sage 50 Payroll
• Check your computer meets the system requirements for Sage 50 Payroll

Install the automatic update

1. Right-click the Sage 50 Payroll icon.
2. Select Run as Administrator.
3. The automatic update prompt appears with the available update. Select Install.
4. The update downloads to your computer.
   TIP: If a prompt asks if you'd like to allow the app to make changes to your device. Select Yes.
5. Check the licence information, and when you're ready select Accept Licence.
6. The installer checks for an existing installation to upgrade, and confirms the location. Make a note of this path.
7. Right-click your Sage 50 Payroll icon on your desktop and select Open file location.
8. Check the location of this folder matches the path you noted in Step 6.
9. If these match, select Yes and your installation begins.
10. If these don't match, select No, then Yes and browse to the correct location of your installation from Step 6.
11. Select Payroll.exe then Open. Your installation begins.
12. Once the installation is complete, we recommended you save any work and restart your computer.
13. Enable background updates.

What's new in v31

Your year end software update includes the new legislation for the 2025/2026 tax year, along with some improvements to make it even easier to use.

To find out more, visit our what's new in Sage 50 Payroll v31 article.