Is it still necessary to click "finish payroll"?

Yes, it is necessary to select the Finish Payroll button after previewing payroll details, @steve271.

Since the option isn't showing on yours, let's perform some troubleshooting steps to fix this.

There are times when the browser is full of frequently accessed page resources, which causes some errors or unusual responses. Let's start accessing your account using a different or private browser. You can use either of these shortcut keys:

• Google Chrome: Ctrl + Shift + N
• Mozilla Firefox: Ctrl + Shift + P
• Microsoft Edge: Ctrl + Shift + P
• Safari: Command + Shift + N

Once you have successfully had the option, go back to your regular browser and clear its cache. This is done to speed up the process the next time you do a transaction in QuickBooks Online. Also, an alternative way is to use other compatible browsers.

I'd also like to share these articles to help set up your payroll automatically and run employee reports: 

• Set up Auto Payroll to pay your employees in QuickBooks Online Payroll
• Run payroll reports

I'm always willful to lend a helping hand if you have further concerns with processing and finishing your payroll. Wishing you and your business continued success.