Gusto Review 2025: Pricing, Features, Pros & Cons, Ratings & More
Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist
Gusto: Top Payroll Software
4.6 / 5
Featured Payroll Software Alternatives for Gusto
$40 plus $6 per employee
No
Yes
Editor's Take
OnPay is an all-in-one payroll and HR software designed to simplify payroll processing, benefits management, and HR tasks for small to medium-sized businesses. With its intuitive interface, OnPay automates payroll calculations, tax filings, and compliance, ensuring that businesses stay up to date with regulatory requirements. It also offers a range of HR tools to help with onboarding, performance tracking, and employee management.
Key features include automated payroll processing, benefits administration, time tracking, and workers' compensation management. OnPay also supports multiple pay rates and schedules, making it flexible for businesses with diverse payroll needs. The platform integrates with popular accounting and time-tracking software, allowing seamless data flow and reducing manual tasks.
For businesses seeking a reliable and cost-effective payroll and HR solution, OnPay provides the tools needed to manage payroll with ease while also supporting broader HR functions.
Expert Score
In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.
1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software’s overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.
2. Cost - scoring weight 15%
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It’s crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.
3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.
4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.
5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.
Custom
No
Payroll processing, HR management, analytics
Editor's Take
Paylocity is a comprehensive cloud-based software solution designed to streamline and enhance human resource and payroll management for businesses of all sizes. As an all-in-one platform, it caters to the evolving needs of HR professionals by offering a suite of tools that cover payroll processing, benefits administration, talent management, workforce management, and employee engagement. Its user-friendly interface and automation capabilities aim to reduce manual tasks, ensuring greater accuracy and efficiency in day-to-day operations.
One of Paylocity's standout features is its ability to integrate seamlessly with other software systems, providing businesses with the flexibility to customize their workflows. Its payroll processing tool is particularly robust, offering automated tax filing, compliance management, and real-time reporting to minimize errors and save time. Additionally, its talent management module supports recruitment, onboarding, performance tracking, and employee development, making it a valuable tool for organizations focused on growth and retention.
Employee engagement is a key focus of Paylocity, reflected in its modern tools like peer recognition, surveys, and an intuitive self-service portal. These features foster better communication and collaboration, helping businesses build a more connected and motivated workforce. The platform also offers advanced analytics and reporting capabilities, enabling HR teams to make data-driven decisions to support strategic initiatives.
Paylocity is known for its customer support and commitment to innovation, regularly introducing new features to stay ahead of market trends. While the platform is designed for scalability, some smaller businesses may find the breadth of its features overwhelming or more suitable for mid-sized and larger organizations. Nevertheless, Paylocity remains a leading choice for businesses seeking a comprehensive, integrated, and customizable solution for managing HR and payroll functions.
Expert Score
In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.
1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software’s overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.
2. Cost - scoring weight 15%
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It’s crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.
3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.
4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.
5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.
By quote
Demo available
Tax management, employee self-service, analytics
Editor's Take
ADP Workforce Now is a comprehensive human capital management (HCM) platform designed for medium to large businesses. It offers a suite of tools that streamline HR, payroll, talent management, time and attendance, and benefits administration. Known for its scalability and ease of use, ADP Workforce Now allows businesses to automate routine tasks, maintain compliance with changing regulations, and optimize workforce management.
Key features include robust payroll and tax management, employee self-service options, and integrated reporting and analytics. The platform also offers mobile access, allowing employees and managers to handle HR tasks on the go. ADP Workforce Now’s integration capabilities with third-party applications and its strong focus on data security make it a trusted solution for managing complex HR operations.
For businesses seeking a reliable, all-in-one HCM solution that enhances efficiency, ensures compliance, and scales with growth, ADP Workforce Now is an excellent choice.
Expert Score
In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.
1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software’s overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.
2. Cost - scoring weight 15%
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It’s crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.
3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.
4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.
5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.
Gusto Review
What is Gusto
Gusto is designed to simplify complex workforce management tasks for small and medium-sized businesses. Its payroll software automates calculations, tax withholdings, and filings, which helps ensure employees are paid correctly and on time. By handling federal, state, and local tax submissions electronically, it reduces errors and the risk of penalties. This efficiency is central to understanding what is Gusto payroll software and its value for businesses aiming to streamline payroll operations.
Beyond payroll, Gusto integrates benefits administration, allowing employers to manage health insurance, 401(k) plans, and workers’ compensation in one platform. This seamless coordination of benefits and payroll deductions eliminates the need for juggling multiple systems, making it easier for businesses to offer and maintain comprehensive employee packages. Such integration is a key consideration for companies exploring how does Gusto work for businesses in managing employee benefits efficiently.
The platform also supports compliance management with built-in alerts and resources that help employers stay aligned with labor laws and tax rules. Tracking employee eligibility and managing documentation within Gusto helps mitigate legal risks and ensures readiness for audits or inquiries. This compliance support is crucial for businesses that want to reduce administrative burdens while maintaining proper records.
Employee onboarding is streamlined through digital tools that allow new hires to complete necessary paperwork and tax forms electronically. This accelerates payroll and benefits setup, ensuring essential employee data is collected securely and stored in an organized manner. The user-friendly interface further aids employers who may lack HR expertise by providing clear dashboards and automated reminders for deadlines and tasks.
Time tracking and attendance features integrate directly with payroll calculations, ensuring accurate compensation based on hours worked. This functionality is especially beneficial for companies with hourly staff or those needing detailed work hour records for compliance or project management. Security is also prioritized, with data encryption and role-based access controls protecting sensitive information.
For businesses considering various options, exploring related sales platforms may provide additional insights into tools that complement Gusto’s HR and payroll capabilities, helping to build a comprehensive operational ecosystem.
Featured Payroll Software Products
$40 plus $6 per employee
No
Yes
Editor's Take
OnPay is an all-in-one payroll and HR software designed to simplify payroll processing, benefits management, and HR tasks for small to medium-sized businesses. With its intuitive interface, OnPay automates payroll calculations, tax filings, and compliance, ensuring that businesses stay up to date with regulatory requirements. It also offers a range of HR tools to help with onboarding, performance tracking, and employee management.
Key features include automated payroll processing, benefits administration, time tracking, and workers' compensation management. OnPay also supports multiple pay rates and schedules, making it flexible for businesses with diverse payroll needs. The platform integrates with popular accounting and time-tracking software, allowing seamless data flow and reducing manual tasks.
For businesses seeking a reliable and cost-effective payroll and HR solution, OnPay provides the tools needed to manage payroll with ease while also supporting broader HR functions.
Expert Score
In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.
1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software’s overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.
2. Cost - scoring weight 15%
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It’s crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.
3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.
4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.
5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.
Custom
No
Payroll processing, HR management, analytics
Editor's Take
Paylocity is a comprehensive cloud-based software solution designed to streamline and enhance human resource and payroll management for businesses of all sizes. As an all-in-one platform, it caters to the evolving needs of HR professionals by offering a suite of tools that cover payroll processing, benefits administration, talent management, workforce management, and employee engagement. Its user-friendly interface and automation capabilities aim to reduce manual tasks, ensuring greater accuracy and efficiency in day-to-day operations.
One of Paylocity's standout features is its ability to integrate seamlessly with other software systems, providing businesses with the flexibility to customize their workflows. Its payroll processing tool is particularly robust, offering automated tax filing, compliance management, and real-time reporting to minimize errors and save time. Additionally, its talent management module supports recruitment, onboarding, performance tracking, and employee development, making it a valuable tool for organizations focused on growth and retention.
Employee engagement is a key focus of Paylocity, reflected in its modern tools like peer recognition, surveys, and an intuitive self-service portal. These features foster better communication and collaboration, helping businesses build a more connected and motivated workforce. The platform also offers advanced analytics and reporting capabilities, enabling HR teams to make data-driven decisions to support strategic initiatives.
Paylocity is known for its customer support and commitment to innovation, regularly introducing new features to stay ahead of market trends. While the platform is designed for scalability, some smaller businesses may find the breadth of its features overwhelming or more suitable for mid-sized and larger organizations. Nevertheless, Paylocity remains a leading choice for businesses seeking a comprehensive, integrated, and customizable solution for managing HR and payroll functions.
Expert Score
In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.
1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software’s overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.
2. Cost - scoring weight 15%
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It’s crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.
3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.
4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.
5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.
By quote
Demo available
Tax management, employee self-service, analytics
Editor's Take
ADP Workforce Now is a comprehensive human capital management (HCM) platform designed for medium to large businesses. It offers a suite of tools that streamline HR, payroll, talent management, time and attendance, and benefits administration. Known for its scalability and ease of use, ADP Workforce Now allows businesses to automate routine tasks, maintain compliance with changing regulations, and optimize workforce management.
Key features include robust payroll and tax management, employee self-service options, and integrated reporting and analytics. The platform also offers mobile access, allowing employees and managers to handle HR tasks on the go. ADP Workforce Now’s integration capabilities with third-party applications and its strong focus on data security make it a trusted solution for managing complex HR operations.
For businesses seeking a reliable, all-in-one HCM solution that enhances efficiency, ensures compliance, and scales with growth, ADP Workforce Now is an excellent choice.
Expert Score
In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.
1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software’s overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.
2. Cost - scoring weight 15%
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It’s crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.
3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.
4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.
5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.
$20 per month
Yes
Yes
Editor's Take
Patriot Software is a user-friendly, cloud-based payroll and accounting platform designed specifically for small businesses. It simplifies payroll processing by automating tax calculations, deductions, and filings, ensuring businesses stay compliant with federal, state, and local regulations. Patriot’s intuitive design makes it easy for business owners to manage payroll, generate reports, and pay employees accurately and on time.
Key features include payroll management, tax filing, time tracking, and an optional accounting module for handling expenses, invoicing, and financial reports. Patriot Software also offers employee self-service portals where employees can access their pay stubs, tax documents, and personal information securely.
For small businesses looking for an affordable and straightforward solution to manage payroll and accounting, Patriot Software provides a reliable platform that helps streamline operations and ensures compliance with minimal hassle.
Expert Score
In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.
1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software's overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.
2. Cost - scoring weight 15%
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It's crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.
3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.
4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.
5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.
$39 per month plus $5 per employee per month
Yes
Yes
Editor's Take
Paychex is a comprehensive human capital management (HCM) solution that offers payroll, HR, benefits, and compliance services for businesses of all sizes. With its robust set of features, Paychex automates payroll processing, tax filing, and benefits administration, helping businesses save time and maintain compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. It also provides tools for managing employee benefits, time and attendance, and workforce analytics.
Key features include automated payroll, tax compliance, employee onboarding, benefits management, and a self-service portal for employees to access pay stubs, tax forms, and benefits information. Paychex integrates with various accounting and HR software, making it a versatile solution for businesses with complex needs. The platform is also scalable, catering to both small businesses and large enterprises with customizable features and services.
For businesses seeking a comprehensive solution to manage payroll, HR, and benefits efficiently, Paychex offers a trusted platform that enhances workforce management while ensuring compliance and reducing administrative burdens.
Expert Score
In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.
1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software’s overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.
2. Cost - scoring weight 15%
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It’s crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.
3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.
4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.
5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.
How much does Gusto cost
Gusto: Top Payroll Software
4.6 / 5
Core
- Starts at $39 per month plus $6 per employee per month
- Includes full-service payroll, employee self-service, health benefits administration, and basic time tracking
Complete
- Starts at $39 per month plus $12 per employee per month
- Includes all Core features plus employee onboarding, time-off requests, and compliance alerts
Concierge
- Starts at $149 per month plus $12 per employee per month
- Includes all Complete features plus HR resource center, certified HR pros support, and personalized HR advisory
Gusto offers a free trial period allowing prospective users to evaluate the software before committing to a paid plan.
What are the pros of Gusto
- Automated payroll processing with tax calculations and filings to reduce errors and save time
- Built-in time tracking integrated with payroll for accurate hourly employee payments
- Management of employee benefits including health insurance, 401(k), and workers’ compensation
- Digital onboarding tools like e-signatures and document storage to streamline hiring
- Multi-state payroll handling with automatic tax compliance across different regions
What are the cons of Gusto
- Payroll processing can be slower during high-demand tax periods.
- Limited options to customize payroll reports for specialized needs.
- Mobile app lacks many features available on the desktop version.
- Basic time tracking may require additional software for complex labor management.
- No advanced analytics or forecasting tools for payroll planning.
- Restricted international payroll support, mainly suited for U.S. companies.
What are the core features of Gusto
Gusto: Top Payroll Software
4.6 / 5
Gusto offers a robust set of tools designed to streamline payroll and HR management with a focus on efficiency, security, and ease of use. The platform’s features cater to businesses seeking reliable automation, comprehensive oversight, and seamless employee access.
- Reporting and Dashboards: Delivers real-time insights into payroll, benefits, and workforce data, enabling effective monitoring of key financial and HR metrics.
- User, Role, and Access Management: Provides granular control over user permissions, allowing administrators to assign roles and restrict access based on job responsibilities to enhance security.
- Performance and Reliability: Utilizes cloud infrastructure to maintain consistent uptime and smooth operation of payroll and HR functions without interruptions.
- Scalability: Supports growth from startups to mid-sized companies with adaptable services that expand alongside organizational needs.
- Web Portal: Offers employees a secure online platform to access pay stubs, tax forms, benefits details, and update personal information conveniently.
- Benefits Manager: Integrates benefits enrollment and management, allowing employees to handle health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks directly within the system.
- Mobile Access: Enables payroll and benefits management on smartphones and tablets, including submitting time-off requests and reviewing information on the go.
- Payroll Entry: Supports manual input and automated payroll processing to ensure timely and accurate employee and contractor payments.
- Time Off Accrual: Automatically calculates vacation, sick leave, and other paid time off balances in line with company policies for both employees and managers to track.
- Direct Deposit: Facilitates secure, prompt deposit of wages directly into employees’ bank accounts.
- Pre-tax Deductions: Accurately manages deductions such as health premiums and retirement contributions to reduce taxable income.
- Check/W-2 Printing and Delivery: Provides options for physical printing or electronic delivery of paychecks and W-2 tax forms to accommodate employee preferences.
- Tax Calculation and Filing: Automatically computes all relevant federal, state, and local payroll taxes and files necessary payroll tax forms and payments to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.
Benefits of using Gusto
Gusto offers a robust set of features designed to streamline payroll and HR tasks, making it easier for businesses to manage employee compensation and benefits efficiently. Below is an overview of key advantages that prospective customers can expect when choosing Gusto as their payroll solution.
- Streamlined Payroll Automation: Gusto handles the entire payroll process automatically—from wage calculations to tax withholdings and direct deposits—minimizing errors and saving valuable time for businesses.
- Comprehensive Benefits Management: The platform integrates employee benefits administration, including health insurance and retirement plans, simplifying enrollment and ongoing management in one place.
- Tax Compliance Made Easy: Automatic handling of federal, state, and local payroll tax filings ensures businesses remain compliant without manual effort or risk of penalties.
- User-Friendly Interface: Designed with simplicity in mind, Gusto’s intuitive layout makes payroll and HR tasks accessible even for users without specialized experience.
- Employee Empowerment: A self-service portal allows employees to independently access pay stubs, tax forms, and benefits details, reducing administrative workload for HR teams.
- Flexible Payment Options: Supporting same-day direct deposits and multiple payment methods, Gusto offers payroll flexibility tailored to employee preferences.
- Scalability for Growing Businesses: Ideal for small to medium companies, Gusto can scale alongside business growth, accommodating expanding payroll and HR needs without platform changes.
- Robust Security Measures: Encryption and secure data storage protect sensitive payroll and employee information, ensuring confidentiality and compliance with data protection standards.
- Dedicated Customer Support: Responsive assistance via phone, email, and chat helps users with setup and troubleshooting, enhancing the overall user experience.
Our expert take on Gusto
From my experience exploring Gusto payroll and HR features, the platform stands out for its intuitive design that simplifies payroll tasks without requiring deep HR expertise. This is a huge advantage for smaller businesses like mine, where we often juggle multiple roles and need software that doesn’t complicate day-to-day operations. The integration of payroll, benefits management, workers’ compensation, and tax filing in one place means fewer vendors to coordinate with, which streamlines everything.
What really caught my attention is Gusto’s automatic handling of tax filings across federal, state, and local levels. It removes a lot of the stress around compliance, especially when regulations change frequently. I also value the customer support aimed at compliance questions, which gives me some peace of mind knowing help is available when I need to navigate tricky requirements.
That said, when considering Gusto pricing and user experience, it’s clear that costs can ramp up as your team grows, especially if you want advanced features. I found it useful to carefully assess which capabilities are essential before upgrading to premium plans, to avoid paying for extras that don’t add value to my business. This is a common theme I’ve noticed among peers trying to balance functionality with budget constraints.
While Gusto covers basic HR functions well, I realized it might not be the best fit if my company’s needs evolve to require more sophisticated tools like recruiting or performance management. For businesses with simpler payroll and HR demands, though, its security measures, including encryption and secure access, make it a trustworthy choice for protecting sensitive employee data.
On a related note, if you’re also exploring the broader landscape of financial software, I recommend checking out this article on the best accounting software for smes. It provides insights that complement what Gusto offers, especially if you want a well-rounded approach to managing your company’s finances and payroll in tandem.
What business types use Gusto
- Small and Medium-Sized Businesses (SMBs): Gusto is favored by small business payroll software users for its automation of tax filings and payroll schedules, easing administrative tasks for owners without dedicated HR teams.
- Tech Startups: Startups in technology sectors benefit from Gusto’s scalable HR features, integration capabilities, and support for equity compensation plans, making it a top choice among the best payroll system for startups.
- Nonprofit Organizations: With budget-conscious solutions and nonprofit discounts, Gusto manages tax-exempt payroll complexities, helping these groups focus on their missions.
- Professional Services: Law, accounting, and consulting firms rely on Gusto to handle multiple pay rates, benefits, and contractor payments via 1099 forms efficiently.
- Restaurants and Hospitality: Businesses with irregular hours use Gusto’s flexible payroll scheduling and time-tracking to ensure accurate tip and overtime calculations.
- Construction Companies: Gusto supports mixed workforce payroll, issuing 1099s, and on-site mobile payroll management, ensuring compliance with labor regulations.
- Healthcare Providers: Clinics and home health agencies use Gusto’s tools to manage diverse staff and benefits compliance, covering health insurance and retirement plans.
- Creative Agencies and Marketing Firms: These companies appreciate Gusto’s straightforward contractor payments and benefits administration, simplifying payroll for a mix of employees and freelancers.
- Educational Institutions: Schools and training centers benefit from customizable payroll cycles aligned with academic calendars and comprehensive benefits management.
Across these varied industries, Gusto’s comprehensive payroll automation and tax compliance support make it a versatile choice. For organizations exploring additional workforce management tools, especially those interested in learning platforms, the overview of open source lms self hosted options could provide valuable insights complementary to payroll solutions.
Best 5 alternatives to Gusto
ADP Workforce Now
3.9 / 5
ADP Workforce Now emerges in this discussion as a potential contender in the realm of HCM software, hinting at a unified platform designed to streamline various workforce-related functions. The provided source hints—albeit without extensive details—at a solution that aims to bring together essential human capital management tools under one roof, catering to the diverse needs of organizations. While specifics are sparse in the source material, the overview suggests that ADP Workforce Now is positioned to offer an integrated approach that supports HR and payroll functions alongside other key operational areas. This high-level glimpse into the product invites prospective users to consider its promise of consolidating core processes and enhancing overall workforce management.
Paylocity
4.5 / 5
Paylocity presents itself as a solution tailored toward addressing the essential operations of human resources management for modern businesses. The platform is positioned to streamline key administrative functions while supporting the broad spectrum of workforce-related tasks that organizations face. Its design is intended to enhance efficiency and simplify everyday HR processes, making it a candidate worth considering for companies in search of comprehensive core HR software. Although the detailed elements of its offering remain unspecified in the source, the overall framework suggests a focus on operational effectiveness and adaptability in the evolving HR landscape.
Patriot
4.5 / 5
Patriot Software delivers a comprehensive suite of accounting and payroll tools designed specifically for small businesses and accountants, emphasizing ease of use and flexibility. Its platform allows for effortless tracking of expenses and income, unlimited invoicing, and vendor payment management, while supporting an unlimited number of users for seamless collaboration. The integration of accounting and payroll features automates complex processes such as tax filings, payroll calculations, and direct deposits, with customizable options including multiple pay frequencies and PTO accruals. Prioritizing security and compliance, Patriot offers features like SOC-II type-II certification and strong data encryption, alongside detailed reporting and customizable dashboards that enhance financial insight for businesses and accounting professionals alike.
OnPay
4.75 / 5
OnPay is designed as a streamlined solution for managing payroll, offering a blend of efficiency and user-friendly design that caters to businesses of diverse sizes. It simplifies the essential functions of payroll processing while maintaining an adaptable framework that can transform routine tasks into intuitive operations. With its ability to manage computations and deductions with ease, OnPay strives to relieve organizations of the administrative burdens that often complicate payroll management. Overall, it stands as an attractive option for companies in search of a reliable payroll software solution that blends clarity with practical performance.
Paychex
4.35 / 5
Paychex stands out as a versatile payroll software solution, designed with an intuitive interface that simplifies navigation even for users without technical expertise. Business owners appreciate its mobile accessibility, which allows payroll management and vital information retrieval on the go. The platform supports efficient payroll operations, enabling runs with just a couple of clicks, and offers multiple time-tracking options to suit diverse business needs. Additionally, Paychex integrates advanced analytics and robust security measures, streamlining administrative tasks by consolidating data entry into a single, user-friendly system.
Frequently Asked Questions about Gusto
Gusto automates the calculation, filing, and payment of payroll taxes at federal, state, and local levels, significantly easing the administrative workload for employers.
Yes, Gusto operates fully online, enabling access from any device with internet connectivity without requiring any software installation.
Businesses can administer health insurance, 401(k) plans, workers’ compensation, and other benefits via Gusto, with offerings varying based on eligibility and location.
Gusto integrates seamlessly with widely used accounting and time-tracking platforms like QuickBooks, Xero, and TSheets, facilitating smooth data transfer between systems.
The platform provides tools and resources to maintain compliance with federal and state labor regulations, including automatic updates for tax rates and employment laws.
Yes, Gusto supports payments to contractors and freelancers, including the generation of 1099 tax forms, streamlining contractor payroll management.
Customer service is accessible via phone, email, and live chat during business hours, supplemented by a comprehensive online help center and community resources.
The platform manages payroll for employees working across multiple states, addressing the complexities of diverse tax rates and regulations.
With mobile-friendly website access and dedicated apps, Gusto allows both employers and employees to manage payroll and benefits conveniently while on the move.
Gusto implements industry-standard security protocols, including encryption, secure data centers, and regular audits to safeguard sensitive employee and company data.
Yes, digital onboarding features in Gusto streamline the collection of new hire information, tax documentation, and compliance paperwork.
Employees have secure access to pay stubs, W-2s, and 1099 forms through individual accounts, enhancing transparency and ease of document retrieval.
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