Paychex FY2026 EPS Forecast Boosted by Zacks Research

Analysts raise medium-term and near-term earnings estimates for the payroll and HR services provider

Apr. 9, 2026 at 11:05am

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An extreme close-up of complex, industrial-looking banking equipment and mechanisms, conveying a sense of the secure, powerful financial systems that underpin Paychex's business.Zacks Research's upbeat long-term earnings forecast for Paychex suggests the payroll provider's financial infrastructure remains robust despite near-term headwinds.Rochester Today

Zacks Research has increased its fiscal year 2026 earnings per share (EPS) forecast for Paychex, Inc. (NASDAQ:PAYX), expecting the business services provider to earn $5.50 per share for the year, up from their previous estimate of $5.48. The research firm also issued estimates for Paychex's earnings in fiscal years 2027 and 2028, signaling an improved longer-term outlook despite some near-term profitability concerns.

Why it matters

Paychex's stock performance has been mixed recently, with analysts divided on the company's near-term prospects. The Zacks Research forecast upgrade provides a more optimistic view on Paychex's medium- and long-term earnings trajectory, which could help offset any short-term weakness and support the stock price.

The details

In a research report issued on Wednesday, April 8th, Zacks Research analysts increased their fiscal year 2026 EPS estimate for Paychex to $5.50 per share, up from their previous forecast of $5.48. The firm also provided estimates for Paychex's earnings in the first and second quarters of fiscal years 2027 and 2028, with Q1 2027 EPS at $1.31, Q2 2027 EPS at $1.35, Q1 2028 EPS at $1.54, and Q2 2028 EPS at $1.45. These revisions suggest Zacks Research sees upside to Paychex's longer-term earnings potential, even as some analysts have trimmed near-term forecasts.

  • Zacks Research issued the updated earnings estimates on Wednesday, April 8th.

The players

Zacks Research

A stock research firm that provides analysis and forecasts on public companies.

Paychex, Inc.

A provider of payroll, human resources, and benefits outsourcing solutions for small- and medium-sized businesses, headquartered in Rochester, New York.

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What they’re saying

“Zacks Research analyst Team now expects that the business services provider will earn $5.50 per share for the year, up from their previous estimate of $5.48.”

— Zacks Research analyst Team

The takeaway

The Zacks Research forecast upgrade provides a more optimistic view on Paychex's medium- and long-term earnings trajectory, which could help offset any short-term weakness and support the stock price. However, some analysts have also trimmed near-term forecasts, signaling softer profitability in the coming quarters.