> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.zebec.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.zebec.io/zebec-application-suite/enterprise-payroll/streaming-payroll.md).

# Streaming payroll

Streaming payroll is Zebec's flagship feature. Instead of paying employees and contractors in lump sums at cycle boundaries, **pay accrues by the second** from the moment the payroll cycle starts.

## How it works

A team member on a $5,000/month salary does not wait until the 1st of the next month to see their money. From the moment the cycle opens, their balance ticks up continuously, by the second, and they can withdraw any portion at any time.

## Why it matters

* **For employees and contractors:** financial flexibility without payday loans, predatory advance apps, or asking the company for an advance.
* **For enterprises:** no extra cost and no extra admin. The total payout is the same, just streamed instead of batched. Better talent retention and reduced HR overhead from advance requests. Instant settlement of funds, rather than going through slow banking or remittance rails.
* **For everyone:** payers and payees do not need to open and maintain bank accounts or deal with cross-border currency fluctuations. This opens a new world of opportunities globally, for both companies and talent.