Elation Systems vs. LCPtracker: Which Platform Is Right for Your Project?
Both Elation Systems and LCPtracker are widely used for certified payroll compliance on federally funded projects — but they serve different agency requirements. Here's how to navigate both platforms and what to expect.
Stephanie Ramirez
CEO & Founder, S&R Industrial Contract Consulting
Why the Platform Is Determined by the Funding Agency
Contractors do not choose which compliance platform to use — the funding agency specifies the platform in the contract documents. Elation Systems is commonly required on Texas GLO, TDHCA, and City of Houston projects. LCPtracker is frequently required on HUD-insured and HUD-assisted projects, as well as some SAHA and City of San Antonio projects. Some projects require both platforms simultaneously if they have multiple funding sources.
Before mobilizing on a new project, confirm with the general contractor or owner which platform is required, obtain your login credentials, and complete any required platform training before the first week of work begins.
Elation Systems: What to Expect
Elation Systems is a web-based compliance management platform used primarily by Texas state and local housing agencies. It manages certified payroll submissions, Section 3 reporting, MWBE tracking, and subcontractor compliance documentation in a single interface.
Subcontractors submit certified payroll by entering payroll data directly into the platform or uploading a compatible file. The system validates wage rates against the project wage determination and flags deficiencies automatically. One common issue: Elation requires that worker Social Security numbers be entered in full during initial setup, which can create friction for subcontractors with privacy concerns. Work with your compliance consultant to navigate the setup process correctly.
LCPtracker: What to Expect
LCPtracker is one of the most widely used certified payroll platforms on HUD-funded construction projects nationwide. It supports WH-347 submissions, Section 3 reporting, and apprenticeship ratio tracking. The platform allows certified payroll submission via direct data entry, XML file upload, or integration with payroll software such as QuickBooks and ADP.
LCPtracker's interface is more complex than Elation's, and first-time users often struggle with the initial worker setup and wage rate configuration. The platform also has strict validation rules — a single classification mismatch will prevent submission until corrected. Budget additional time for the first two to three weeks of submissions on any new LCPtracker project.
When a Project Requires Both Platforms
Projects with multiple funding sources — for example, a HUD-insured loan combined with a Texas GLO grant — may require submissions on both LCPtracker and Elation Systems simultaneously. This doubles the administrative burden and requires that payroll data be formatted correctly for each platform's specific requirements.
In this situation, establish a clear weekly workflow: prepare the payroll data once, then format and submit to each platform separately. Do not attempt to submit to one platform and assume the other will be satisfied. Each funding agency monitors its own platform independently.
B2Gnow for Section 3 and MWBE Reporting
B2Gnow is a separate platform used primarily for Section 3 and MWBE/DBE reporting on City of Houston and some SAHA projects. It is not a certified payroll platform — it tracks subcontractor utilization, labor hours by worker category, and good-faith effort documentation.
If your project requires B2Gnow, you will need to maintain parallel records: certified payroll in Elation or LCPtracker, and Section 3 and MWBE data in B2Gnow. Confirm with the project owner which reports are due in B2Gnow and at what frequency — some projects require monthly submissions, others require updates at each pay application.
Need Help With Compliance on Your Project?
S&R provides hands-on federal labor compliance support for developers and general contractors on HUD, GLO, TDHCA, and City-funded projects.