20 Best Gusto Alternatives of 2026
10 Best Gusto Alternatives Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 20 tools reviewed.
The best Gusto alternatives will help you manage payroll, benefits, and HR tasks but with slightly difference specialties and areas of focus.
Gusto is a trusted HR and payroll platform for small and mid-sized businesses, but it may not be the perfect match for every team.
Drawing on my experience testing and comparing HR systems, I’ve curated a list of the top Gusto alternatives that deliver reliability, automation, and scalability.
In this guide, you’ll find trusted platforms that simplify HR management, streamline payroll, and give you the freedom to choose what works best for your organization.
What is Gusto?
Gusto offers a combination of HR software and services that are designed to manage payroll, benefits, and human resources for businesses. Their software solution is commonly used by small to medium-sized businesses that need to handle employee compensation, benefits administration, and compliance with labor laws, but want extra support managing these functions efficiently.
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Best Gusto Alternatives: Pricing Comparison Chart
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top Gusto alternative selections to help you find the best software for your budget and business needs.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for global payroll and compliance | Not available | Website | ||
| 2 | Best PEO-based HR & payroll support | Not available | From $8/employee/month + $50/month base fee | Website | |
| 3 | Best for flexible HR service models | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 4 | Best for multi-jurisdiction tax filing | 90-day free trial available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 5 | Best for budget-conscious remote team expansion | Free plan + free demo available | From $199/person/month | Website | |
| 6 | Best for all-in-one HR software with extensive integrations | Free 7-day trial | From $10/user/month | Website | |
| 7 | Best for complex pay structures and time tracking | 30-day free trial | From $50/month | Website | |
| 8 | Best for unlimited payroll runs | 30-day free trial available | From $8.50/month + $2 per employee/month | Website | |
| 9 | Best for multi-currency payments | Free demo available | From $15/employee/month | Website | |
| 10 | Best for unlimited payroll runs and tax filing guarantee | Up to 6 months free | From $4/month/employee + $20/month base fee | Website |
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Checkr
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.5 -
Kudoboard
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8 -
Native Teams
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.9
Best Gusto Alternative Reviews
Below are in-depth summaries of my recommendations for the best Gusto alternatives. I’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each tool, their features, and their best use cases to help you find the best fit for your needs.
Deel is a global payroll and compliance management solution designed to streamline hiring and payments for international teams. HR professionals and payroll specialists use it to manage remote workers and contractors. It automates compliance processes, handling things like local tax laws, and provides a unified platform for managing contracts, payments, and documentation.
Why it's a good Gusto alternative: What sets Deel apart from Gusto is its ability to manage international payroll and compliance. Deel is particularly well-suited for companies that employ remote workers or contractors across multiple countries, providing tools to handle complex compliance issues, local tax laws, and multi-currency payments. For businesses in industries with a significant number of international hires, Deel offers a solid solution to manage global teams effectively. In contrast, Gusto excels in managing payroll, benefits, and HR needs for U.S.-based businesses, making Deel the better choice for organizations with a global workforce.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include global mobility support, integrated Slack tools, and advanced integrations. Their global mobility service helps companies with visa sponsorship, allowing them to bring in candidates from abroad. Deel is one of the largest international payroll solutions out there, with the company reporting over 100,000 active worker contracts. They offer 24/7 online support and dedicated account managers for specific requests.
Integrations are available with Ashby, BambooHR, Expensify, Greenhouse, Hibon, NetSuite, Okta, OneLogin, Quickbooks, Xero, Workday, and Workable. They also have an Open API to support additional custom integrations too.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Pay employees in 150+ currencies, including crypto
- Advanced employer of record (EOR) services also available
- Covers up to $25,000 if a misclassification/legal case arises
Cons:
- No mobile app available
- No free trial available
Justworks offers a compelling alternative to Gusto for businesses that want more than just payroll software. Instead of focusing solely on payroll and HR tools, Justworks operates as a professional employer organization (PEO) that helps you manage payroll, benefits, and compliance in one platform while connecting you with HR experts when you need guidance. Its payroll processing, benefits administration, and compliance support are designed to meet the needs of small to mid-size companies looking to offload administrative work and access competitive health plans and employment support.
Why I Picked Justworks
I picked Justworks because it combines PEO-level HR support with payroll and benefits management, giving your business access to enterprise-type benefits and regulatory guidance that you won’t get from many traditional payroll platforms. Justworks pairs integrated payroll processing with compliance support across multiple states and access to group health insurance and other benefits that can help you attract and retain talent. In doing so, it shifts much of the administrative burden from you to a partner that understands the nuances of HR administration and employment law.
Justworks Key Features
Aside from the core HR and payroll capabilities, Justoworks offers:
- Payroll Automation: Automates payroll processing for both employees and contractors, including tax calculations and filings.
- Time Tracking: Simplifies attendance management with integrated time tracking tools.
- COBRA Administration: Manages COBRA benefits, ensuring compliance with federal regulations.
- Integrated Onboarding Tools: Syncs hiring data from ATS platforms like Greenhouse and Lever directly to your HR system.
Justworks Integrations
Integrations include QuickBooks, NetSuite, Xero, Sage Intacct, Lever, and Trainual. If you need custom integrations, Justworks offers an API for developers.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Justworks simplifies onboarding, offboarding, and payroll processes.
- Provides comprehensive HR tools and compliance support.
- Accessible expert support as a Professional Employer Organization.
Cons:
- Some admins want more flexibility than platform defaults allow.
- Global coverage is only available as a paid add-on.
For businesses seeking a Gusto alternative, TriNet offers a tailored approach to HR management that can align with various industry needs. If you're managing a small to medium-sized business and need a comprehensive solution for payroll, benefits, and compliance, TriNet's flexible service packages might be appealing. With a focus on personalized support and advanced technology, TriNet addresses the common challenges of managing HR tasks efficiently and compliantly.
Why I Picked TriNet
I picked TriNet because of its dual service model that caters to different business needs, providing both full-service PEO and flexible HR Plus options. This flexibility allows you to choose between a shared HR responsibility and maintaining employer status while receiving support. TriNet's emphasis on compliance and risk management can be crucial for businesses looking to navigate complex regulatory environments. Additionally, the platform offers advanced technology tools that facilitate seamless payroll processing and benefits management, addressing key concerns for businesses transitioning from Gusto.
TriNet Key Features
In addition to its flexible service models, TriNet offers several other features that could be beneficial for your business:
- HR Consulting Expertise: Access to seasoned HR professionals who can guide you through complex HR challenges and compliance issues.
- Comprehensive Benefits Access: A wide range of benefits options that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of your workforce.
- Contractor and Global Workforce Support: Tools and services to manage a diverse and geographically dispersed workforce.
- Tailored Training Programs: Customized training solutions designed to enhance employee skills and productivity.
TriNet Integrations
Native integrations are not currently listed by TriNet.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive payroll, benefits, and compliance
- Strong compliance credentials and support
- Flexible PEO or HR models
Cons:
- Platform may feel complex for new users
- Pricing is unclear
New Product Updates from TriNet
TriNet HR Plus Adds Vestwell 401(k) Connect Integration
TriNet integrates with Vestwell for 401(k) Connect, streamlining deferrals and contributions via TriNet Payroll to Vestwell. For more information, visit TriNet's official site.
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RUN by ADP is a comprehensive payroll and HR software solution designed to simplify payroll processing and human resource management for small businesses.
Why it's a good Gusto alternative: RUN by ADP differentiates itself with its extensive tax filing support across multiple jurisdictions, automated compliance updates, and a dedicated team of experts to help navigate complex tax laws, which can be a significant advantage over Gusto’s more simplified tax services. Additionally, RUN by ADP offers advanced HR tools like employee background checks, access to legal assistance, and custom reporting capabilities.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include direct deposit, an employee self-service portal, HR compliance support, time and attendance tracking, garnishment payment services, new hire reporting, retirement plan services, workers' compensation management, payroll and tax reports, and mobile app access.
Integrations include Quickbooks, Wave, Xero, ClockShark, Points North, TruSaic, Compy, Wex, Synerion, JazzHR, 7Shifts, Snappy Gifts, Absorb LMS, SmartRecruiters, and hundreds more.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Employee self-service option
- Good mobile app
- Automates tax calculations and filing
Cons:
- Setup can be complex
- Most HR functions are only available on higher-tier plans
RemoFirst is an Employer of Record (EOR) service that helps you hire and manage employees and contractors in over 180 countries. By handling local compliance, payroll, and benefits, it allows your team to focus on growth without the complexities of international employment.
Why it's a good Gusto alternative: I chose RemoFirst as a solid alternative to Gusto because of its extensive global reach. While Gusto primarily serves U.S.-based businesses, RemoFirst enables you to hire full-time employees and contractors worldwide, ensuring compliance with local labor laws and regulations. This global capability is crucial if you're looking to expand your team internationally while on a budget and without the hassle of establishing foreign subsidiaries. It also handles payroll processing in multiple currencies, tax filings, and offers benefits like health insurance and retirement plans tailored to each region.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include visa and work permit assistance, helping your team members obtain the necessary documentation to work legally in their respective countries. They also offer background checks to ensure potential hires meet your standards and comply with local regulations. Additionally, it provides intellectual property protection, ensuring your company's assets are safeguarded across different jurisdictions.
Integrations include ADP.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Robust employee support
- Ability to provide locally relevant employee benefits
- Comprehensive compliance management
Cons:
- Service availability may vary by region
- No mobile app available
New Product Updates from RemoFirst
RemoFirst Launches BambooHR Integration
RemoFirst has launched a BambooHR integration for enhanced global hiring and HR management. For more details, visit RemoFirst's official site.
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BambooHR is a comprehensive HR software that offers an employee database, payroll, time-tracking, benefits, hiring, onboarding, and HR reporting. It integrates with various partners and allows users to combine all HR systems into one, simplifying processes and eliminating manual approval processes.
Why it's a good Gusto alternative: I chose BambooHR for the list because it provides an all-in-one HR solution that integrates with numerous other tools, making it a strong alternative to Gusto. Its extensive integrations and comprehensive features make it stand out.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include an employee database, payroll management, benefits administration, hiring and onboarding tools, and HR data reporting. It also provides pre-built reports, automated workflows, and in-depth analytics.
Integrations include Lattice, Officevibe, Deel, TalentLMS, Bonusly, Lever, Payscape, Papaya Global, Oyster, Postmates, Usertesting, ZipRecruiter, Slack, Microsoft Teams, Google Workspace, QuickBooks, and many others.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- Extensive integrations
- Comprehensive HR features
Cons:
- Some features come as paid add-ons
- Limited customization options
New Product Updates from BambooHR®
BambooHR Adds Cost Capping for Age-Banded Medical Plans
BambooHR introduces cost capping for age-banded medical plans. This update ensures employees are not charged for more than three dependent children under 21. For more information, visit BambooHR’s official site.
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TimeTrex is a versatile and comprehensive workforce management software designed to cater to businesses of all sizes. It offers an extensive suite of tools covering everything from payroll and time tracking to human resources and job costing.
Why it's a good Gusto alternative: TimeTrex is a strong alternative to Gusto, particularly for businesses with complex pay structures and time-tracking needs. While both platforms provide essential payroll and time tracking services, TimeTrex distinguishes itself with features like biometric time clocks, job costing, and more detailed scheduling capabilities. These features make TimeTrex a better fit for industries that demand accurate job tracking and labor cost management.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include accrual tracking, custom reporting, automated overtime calculations, shift differentials, attendance-based pay rules, leave management, compliance tracking, workforce analytics, expense management, job costing, and labor distribution.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Sage, ADP, SAP, Xero, Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, Google Workspace, Zoho, BambooHR, and Slack.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Robust reporting features
- Automated payroll and tax calculations
- Advanced time tracking and scheduling
Cons:
- Can be difficult to find certain features within the platform
- User interface is outdated
Patriot Payroll is a payroll solution tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, offering a range of features designed to simplify payroll processing. It's known for its affordability and essential functionalities that cater to diverse payroll needs.
Why it's a good Gusto alternative: I chose Patriot Payroll because it offers unlimited payroll runs, allowing your team to process payroll as frequently as necessary without additional charges. This flexibility is ideal for businesses with varying pay schedules. Moreover, the comprehensive tax filing service in its Full Service Payroll option covers federal, state, and local taxes, ensuring your business stays compliant across all 50 states.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include comprehensive tax filing that handles federal, state, and local tax obligations, ensuring compliance across the board. The cloud-based nature of Patriot Payroll means you can access the system from anywhere, providing flexibility for on-the-go management. Additionally, Patriot Payroll prioritizes data security, being SOC2 Type II compliant, which ensures your payroll data is well-protected.
Integrations include QuickBooks Online, Patriot Accounting, Vestwell, Time and Attendance Software, HR Software, Workers' Compensation Programs, Teamwork, Ramp, Finch, Universal CSV Sync, ERP & Accounting Software, and other accounting solutions.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unlimited payroll runs supported
- Limited global contractor support
- Fewer advanced HR features
Cons:
- USA-based customer support
- Strong tax filing coverage
Papaya Global is a comprehensive platform designed to manage global payroll, workforce, and contractor payments. It simplifies the complexities of international payroll by offering a unified solution that ensures compliance with local regulations.
Why it's a good Gusto alternative: Unlike Gusto, which primarily focuses on the U.S. market, Papaya Global offers robust support for global payroll and compliance in over 160 countries, providing localized expertise and ensuring compliance with local labor laws and tax regulations. It also supports multi-currency payments and multiple employment types, including full-time employees, contractors, and freelancers, allowing businesses to manage a diverse workforce through a single platform.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include employee classification, contractor management, automated payments, global benefits administration, tax filing and reporting, workforce analytics, multilingual support, consolidated reporting, and workforce analytics.
Integrations include SAP SuccessFactors, Oracle HCM, NetSuite, BambooHR, SAP Fieldglass, Namely, HiBob, Expensify, OKTA, and Microsoft Dynamics 365.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Automates many HR processes
- Strong compliance features
- Supports global payroll
Cons:
- Navigating the platform may come with a learning curve
- Initial setup can be complex
SurePayroll, a service offered by Paychex, provides comprehensive payroll solutions for small businesses. It offers automated payroll, tax management, HR, and benefits services, with features such as free unlimited payroll runs, direct deposit, and in-depth reporting. SurePayroll stands out because it ensures that businesses can run payroll as many times as needed without additional costs and guarantees accurate tax filings.
Why it's a good Gusto alternative: I chose SurePayroll for the list because it offers a robust set of features that cater specifically to small businesses, making it a strong alternative to Gusto. Its unlimited payroll runs and tax filing guarantee stand out, providing peace of mind and flexibility for business owners. It also offers up to 6 months for free, making it even more attractive for startups.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated payroll processing, same-day payments, tax management, and comprehensive reporting. It also offers HR support, benefits management, and the ability to run payroll directly from their mobile app, making it a well-rounded solution for small business owners on the go.
Integrations include QuickBooks Online, Xero, FreshBooks, Sage, NetSuite, Intacct, AccountEdge, Kashoo, LessAccounting, and Zoho Books.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Mobile apps for Android and iOS devices
- Tax filing guarantee
- Unlimited payroll runs
Cons:
- Limited HR tools
- Limited to small businesses
Other Gusto Alternatives
If you’d like a few more options to consider, here are several other worthwhile Gusto alternatives that are also worth checking out:
- Trinet
For comprehensive HR outsourcing services
- Namely
For customizable HR solutions with robust analytics
- Patriot Software
For affordable and easy-to-use payroll software
- Wave
For automatic tax payments
- Paychex
For comprehensive payroll and HR solutions
- UKG Ready
For AI-powered HR and workforce management solutions
- Remunance
EOR in India
- Rippling
For managing HR, IT, and finance in one platform
- Multiplier
For minimizing payroll complexity
- Oyster HR
For hiring remote employees
Related HR Software Reviews
If you still haven't found what you're looking for here, check out these other related tools that we've tested and evaluated:
- HR Software
- Payroll Software
- Recruiting Software
- Employer of Record Services
- Applicant Tracking Systems
- Workforce Management Software
Selection Criteria for Gusto Alternatives
Selecting alternatives to Gusto requires a detailed understanding of the features and functionalities that serve common use cases, buyer needs, and pain points. As a software-testing expert, I’ve personally tried and researched many different payroll and HR service providers to make sure my recommendations are accurate.
Here’s a summary of the selection criteria I used to create this list:
Core Functionalities (25% of total score): To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases first:
- Payroll processing
- Benefits administration
- Time tracking
- Employee self-service
- Compliance management
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score): To help me find the best software out of numerous available options, I also kept a keen eye out for unique features, including the following:
- Integration with third-party apps
- Customizable reporting
- Mobile app functionality
- Advanced analytics
- AI-driven insights
Usability (10% of total score): To evaluate the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive user interface
- Drag-and-drop scheduling
- Role-based access configuration
- Easy navigation
- Minimal learning curve
Onboarding (10% of total score): To get a sense of each software provider's customer onboarding process, I considered the following factors:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Chatbots for instant help
- Webinars for in-depth training
- Pre-built templates for quick setup
Customer Support (10% of total score): To evaluate the level of customer support each vendor offered, I considered the following:
- 24/7 support availability
- Multiple support channels (phone, email, chat)
- Dedicated account managers
- Comprehensive help center
- Fast response times
Value for Price (10% of total score): To gauge the value of each software, I considered the following factors:
- Competitive pricing
- Transparent pricing structure
- Flexible subscription plans
- Discounts for annual commitments
- Free trial availability
Customer Reviews (10% of total score): Evaluating customer reviews is the final element of my selection process, which helps me understand how well a product performs in the hands of real users. Here are the factors I considered:
- Overall satisfaction ratings
- Feedback on ease of use
- Comments on customer support quality
- Reviews on feature effectiveness
- User testimonials on ROI
By focusing on these criteria, I was able to identify the best Gusto competitors that are well-suited to specific business requirements, ensuring a smoother transition and better overall experience.
Why Look for a Gusto Alternative?
While Gusto is certainly a popular and well-known HR platform, there are several reasons why you might want to consider an alternative option, including:
- Cost: Gusto's pricing may not fit your budget.
- Features: You need specific features that Gusto lacks.
- Scalability: Gusto may not scale well with your growing business.
- Customer Support: You require more responsive or personalized support.
- Integration: Gusto might not integrate with your existing HR tools.
There are alternatives out there that offer unique benefits that Gusto may not provide, such as more affordable pricing, specialized features, and better scalability. These alternatives may also offer superior customer support and integration with your current systems.
Key Features to Look for in Gusto Alternatives
Here are some key features of Gusto that your alternative software should be able to replicate or improve upon to be a good fit:
- Payroll Processing: Automates payroll calculations and tax filings.
- Employee Benefits: Manages health insurance, retirement plans, and other benefits.
- Time Tracking: Tracks employee hours and integrates with payroll.
- Onboarding: Simplifies new hire paperwork and processes.
- Compliance: Ensures adherence to labor laws and tax regulations.
- Direct Deposit: Facilitates direct deposit payments to employees.
- Employee Self-Service: Allows employees to access pay stubs and update personal information.
- Reporting: Generates detailed payroll and HR reports.
- Customer Support: Provides assistance through various channels.
- Integration: Connects with other business software and tools.
Are There Any Free Gusto Alternatives?
When it comes to managing payroll, Gusto is a popular choice for many small businesses. However, it comes with a cost that might not be feasible for every business. Fortunately, there are several free alternatives to Gusto that offer robust features to help you manage your payroll without breaking the bank. Here are some of the best free payroll software worth considering:
- Payroll4Free: This software is ideal for small businesses with up to 25 employees. It offers features like tax calculations, direct deposit, and an employee portal. However, it only works on Windows and includes ads.
- TimeTrex: TimeTrex offers a free Community Edition that includes time tracking, scheduling, and payroll processing. It is cloud-based and supports unlimited employees, but it does not file payroll taxes.
- HR.my: This platform is completely free and supports unlimited employees. It offers multilingual capabilities, time tracking, and an employee portal. However, it does not calculate or file payroll taxes.
- eSmart Paycheck: eSmart Paycheck provides a free payroll calculator that can handle federal and state tax calculations. It also offers paid plans for additional features like e-filing.
- ExcelPayroll: This is a free, spreadsheet-based payroll solution that works with Microsoft Excel. It supports up to 50 employees and includes features like tax form printing and deduction management.
- Homebase: Homebase offers a free plan that includes scheduling and time tracking. Payroll services are available as an add-on, starting at $6 per employee per month.
- Zoho Payroll: Zoho Payroll offers a free plan for small teams with up to 10 employees. It includes features like automatic payroll calculations and direct deposits.
These tools provide a range of features that can help you manage your payroll and HR tasks efficiently without the need for a paid service like Gusto.
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