6 BEST Gusto Competitors & Alternatives (2025)
Gusto is one of the best payroll services that assist more than 200,000 companies in managing human resources, running payroll, etc. They provide employee/contractor payments, time tracking, onboarding, communications, unlimited payroll runs, etc. You can use Gusto to streamline your business operations as it administers employee benefits, assists in tax filings, ensures complete compliance with land law, and more.
After researching 45+ BEST Gusto Competitors & Alternatives and investing 115+ hours, I have analyzed the best free and paid solutions. While Gusto is a great choice, it lacks proper 24/7 support, prompting me to list the top alternatives with comprehensive features, pros, and cons. This unbiased guide may help you find the most suitable replacement. Read on for exclusive, trusted insights.
Best Gusto Competitors & Alternatives: Top Picks!
Name | Compliance Management | Time Duration for Direct Deposit | API | Benefit Administration | Link |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
OnPay | Yes | 2 – 4 Days | Yes | FSA, HAS Plans, 401(k)s, Health, Life and Disability Insurance, etc. | Learn More |
Insperity | Yes | 5 Days | Yes | Commuter, Dental, Vision, and Medical Insurance, 401(k)s, FSA, HSA, ACA, etc. | Learn More |
Rippling | Yes | 2 Days | Yes | Dental, Vision, and Medical Insurance, 401(k)s, FSA, HSA, etc. | Learn More |
QuickBooks Payroll | Yes | 1 Day | Yes | Life Insurance, Health Insurance, 401(k), etc. | Learn More |
ADP Payroll | Yes | 2- 4 Days | Yes | Workers’ Compensation Insurance, 401(k)s, Health Insurance, etc. | Learn More |
Paychex | Yes | 2 Days | Yes | Retirement Plans, Employee Benefits/Compensations, Dental, Vision and Medical Insurance, etc. | Learn More |
“ services are a critical part of the working of all businesses. Choosing the right service can go a long way in optimizing and improving your business operations. So, you must wisely select the perfect Gusto alternative for all your needs. ”
1) OnPay
Best selective administrative access
OnPay has been great for my HR and payroll needs. I reviewed its options for attendance tracking and payment processing, and they impressed me. It allowed me to automate deductions with custom filters and logic. I could also manage sick leave, medical leave, and remote work hours. According to my research, OnPay ranks among the most effective solutions to meet all your HR needs.
You can enjoy free migration and easy importing tools to transition from your current payroll service to OnPay effortlessly. It also offers built-in self-service dashboards to access their documents and tax filing data whenever possible.
Integrations: Guideline, When I Work, Deputy, etc.
Customer Support: Emails, Phone, Live Chat, FAQs, and Forums
Devices Supported: Cloud
Free Trial: 30 Days Free Trial
Features:
- Payments Support: Allows payments through Direct Deposits, Debit Cards, and Credit Cards without additional costs.
- Knowledge Base: Provides detailed resources to help manage payroll, HR tasks, and employee benefits efficiently.
- HR Management Tools: Includes tools to streamline HR tasks such as onboarding, document audits, and new hire reporting.
- Customizable HR Functions: Offers options to simplify employee management, paperwork, PTO, and onboarding for tailored needs.
- Direct Deposit Processing Time: Transfers are completed within 2 to 4 days, ensuring timely payments.
- Compliance Management: Ensures compliance by adhering to relevant regulations for payroll and HR practices.
- Benefits Administration: Supports FSA, HSA plans, 401(k)s, health, life, and disability insurance options.
- Software Integrations: Compatible with When I Work, Deputy, Guideline, and other essential tools.
- Tax Management: Automates W-2 and 1099 processing to simplify tax compliance and reporting.
- API Availability: Offers API support for integration with custom applications.
- Cloud Accessibility: Cloud-based platform accessible on multiple devices for easy HR and payroll management.
- Customer Support: Provides support via email, phone, live chat, FAQs, and forums for comprehensive assistance.
Pros
Cons
Pricing:
- Free Trial: 30 Days
- Price: Plan start at $46 per month
How does OnPay compare to Gusto?
- Unlike Gusto, OnPay allows building custom employee onboarding workflows at no extra cost
- OnPay provides much better real-time reports with plenty of filters to use
2) Insperity
Best Overall
Insperity is a comprehensive HR and payroll solution ideal for businesses seeking a robust alternative to Gusto. It combines payroll processing, benefits management, and HR services to streamline operations. With features that enhance compliance, performance tracking, and employee support, Insperity offers a versatile platform tailored to growing teams looking for reliable HR and payroll tools in 2024.
Integrations: ProgramPay, Casual, QuickBooks, Trainual, etc
Customer Support: Email, Phone Live Chat, FAQs
Devices Supported: Cloud, SaaS, Web-based
Free Trial: No
Features:
- Comprehensive HR Services: Provides a full suite of HR services for streamlined operations and employee support.
- Advanced Payroll Processing: Offers automated, accurate payroll solutions, including direct deposits and tax filing.
- Compliance Assistance: Helps ensure compliance with federal and state regulations to avoid legal issues.
- Employee Benefits Administration: Manages health, dental, vision insurance, and 401(k) plans for comprehensive coverage.
- Dedicated Support Team: It provided me with expert assistance for resolving complex HR queries effectively.
- Integration Capabilities: Seamlessly integrates with popular software like QuickBooks and Salesforce for enhanced productivity.
- Data Security: Implements robust data security measures to protect sensitive employee and payroll information.
Pros
Cons
Pricing:
- Price: Request a free quote from sales
3) Rippling
Best IT-driven robust payroll solution
Rippling has been impressive for managing both HR and IT tasks. As I evaluated it, I was able to organize money tracking and logistics efficiently. It helped me with document handling, employee onboarding, and quick access to records. I would recommend Rippling as one of the best Gusto alternatives for its smooth and practical solutions.
Rippling is ideal for businesses searching for cost-effective human resource management solutions for their company. It offers management capabilities that let you grant your staff limited administrative access via the Rippling dashboard.
Integrations: Slack, Dropbox, Wrike, Asana, Freshdesk, etc.
Customer Support: Email, Knowledge base, Phone, Chat, and 24/7 Help Desk
Devices Supported: Cloud, Android, iOS, Windows, macOS
Free Trial: No
Features:
- Employee Tracking: It allows effortless tracking of employee location, assigned tasks, and working hours effectively.
- Onboarding Tools: Multiple built-in tools ensure a smooth onboarding experience for new recruits, saving valuable time.
- Custom Report Generation: Create and export customized reports with flexible parameters and various built-in filters for easy analysis.
- Workflow Automation Templates: Provides pre-designed professional workflow templates that allow effortless automation of daily tasks.
- Direct Deposit Timing: It typically ensures direct deposit processing time within 2 days for employee payrolls.
- Automated Pay Runs: This feature allows you to automate pay runs easily, reducing manual processing errors.
- Benefits Administration: Offers a comprehensive range of benefits, including dental, vision, medical insurance, 401(k)s, FSA, and HSA.
- Integration Options: Seamlessly integrates with popular tools like Wrike, Asana, Freshdesk, and others for enhanced functionality.
- Tax Management: Manages various tax forms including W4, W2, 1099, and new hire filing for compliance.
- Customer Support: Provides me 24/7 support through email, FAQs, phone, chat, and a detailed knowledge base.
Pros
Cons
Pricing:
- Price: Plan start at $8 per month
How does Rippling compare to Gusto?
- Rippling is better than Gusto in helping you adapt to your changing needs as the business scales up
- Unlike Gusto, Rippling has a completely integrated system to buy each service individually according to your specific needs and still enjoy very tight integrations
4) QuickBooks Payroll
Best software to combine invoicing, accounting, and payroll
QuickBooks payroll software has been a comprehensive solution for my financial needs in one place. I particularly appreciate its payroll, accounting, and billing features. During my research, I found its Tax Penalty Protection feature helpful for staying compliant with tax rules. In my opinion, the assistance from a payroll specialist made setup and migration easier.
You get professionally designed simple templates for building policies, guidelines, handbooks, checklists, and more. It integrates into your workflow effortlessly by synchronizing with accounting software and many other tools.
Integrations: QuickBooks Accounting, Big Time, etc.
Customer Support: Phone, Email Support, Live Online Chat, FAQs, and Community
Devices Supported: Android, iOS, and Cloud.
Free Trial: 30 Day Free Trial
Features:
- Professional Payroll Assistance: Highly trained specialists help review and configure your payroll system, ensuring optimal performance and accuracy.
- Delegate Access: Allows you to provide delegate access to accountants, making record maintenance easier and more secure. I appreciate how it helps me simplify record-keeping tasks.
- Automated Data Backups: Effortless automated backups aim to keep all your payroll data safe and secure from potential risks.
- Garnishment Management: Helps you optimize and manage employee garnishments and deductions effectively to reduce manual processing.
- Direct Deposit Processing: Offers fast direct deposit processing time within 1 day, providing a quick and reliable payment solution.
- Automated Payroll Runs: This feature enables automated payroll runs, reducing manual work and enhancing payroll accuracy.
- Compliance Management: Provides tools to maintain compliance with regulatory standards, minimizing the risk of legal issues.
- Employee Benefits Administration: Manages various employee benefits, including health insurance, life insurance, and 401(k) plans.
- Integration Options: Supports seamless integration with accounting software like QuickBooks and Big Time for enhanced functionality.
- Tax Form Management: Handles important tax forms like W-2s and 1099s, simplifying tax filing and compliance.
Pros
Cons
Pricing:
- Free Trial: 30 Days
- Price: Plan start at $25 per month
How does QuickBooks Payroll compare to Gusto?
- QuickBooks payroll offers a far better user experience for Android and iOS
- It gives you much faster payroll processing with next-day deposits, which are not available with Gusto
5) ADP Payroll
Best documentation and guidance to assist developers
ADP Payroll has proven helpful for my payroll needs in multiple countries. I particularly appreciate its ability to manage multi-currency payroll services in over 140 locations. During my analysis, I found it great for startups and large businesses alike. In my opinion, ADP Payroll makes setting up time-tracking and attendance management smooth within any existing setup.
You can use it to quickly generate quarter and annual business reports to understand, analyze, and optimize your business performance. Their PEO services allow you to establish a proper and efficient setup of all core HR functions without spending too much on it.
Features:
- Tax Automation: Assists in automated tax calculations and timely payments, helping you avoid penalties efficiently.
- Employee Dashboard: The built-in self-service dashboard offers easy-to-use tools and attractive perks for all employees.
- Data-Driven Reporting: Provides comprehensive data-driven reports to analyze employee metrics and focus on the most critical areas. I rely on this feature to make informed decisions.
- Legal Compliance Guidance: Offers state-specific recommendations to help you abide by ever-changing land laws across all 50 states.
- Direct Deposit Processing: Typically ensures direct deposit processing time between 2 to 4 days for seamless employee payroll.
- Automated Payroll Runs: This feature allows you to automate payroll runs, reducing manual intervention and potential errors.
- Compliance Management: Provides built-in compliance tools to ensure adherence to regulatory standards and requirements effortlessly.
- Employee Benefits Administration: Manages various benefits including workers’ compensation, 401(k) plans, medical insurance, and additional coverage options.
- Integration Options: Offers seamless integration with popular platforms like QuickBooks, Workday, Sage, and more for enhanced productivity.
- Tax Form Management: Handles essential tax forms such as W2, W4, and 1099s, ensuring comprehensive tax management.
Pros
Cons
Pricing:
- Free Trial: 3 Months
- Price: Request a free quote from sales
How does ADP compare to Gusto?
- Unlike Gusto, ADP provides 24/7 customer support
- Provides tools to help in the “return to workplace” transition after COVID-19
6) Paychex
Best payroll software for accuracy and simplicity
Paychex has made workforce management simple for my team. Over the course of my evaluation, I noticed its payroll and audit tools work well. I could rely on their team of compliance professionals to ensure that we meet legal requirements. I suggest Paychex as a strong Gusto competitor with reliable tools for payroll and audits.
This payroll software automatically calculates and submits taxes by minimizing costs while ensuring complete compliance. HR software features help you manage and retain existing employees to attract newer employees. You can enjoy an easily configurable dashboard with multiple views and charts with Paychex.
Integrations: Altametrix, Deputy, Beekeeper, etc.
Customer Support: Live Chat, Emails, Phone, 24/7 Support, and Community
Devices Supported: Cloud, Android, iOS, macOS, Windows.
Free Trial: No
Features:
- Mobile App Accessibility: Offers a free, user-friendly mobile app that allows both employees and administrators to access features easily.
- Payment Flexibility: Supports various payment methods, including direct deposits, pay cards, and traditional paper checks.
- Payroll Tax Management: Provides me tools to calculate, file, and pay payroll taxes seamlessly, reducing compliance issues.
- Direct Deposit Processing: Typically ensures direct deposit processing within 2 days, offering a fast and reliable payment solution.
- Automated Payroll Runs: This feature allows you to automate payroll processing, reducing manual efforts and potential errors.
- Compliance Management: Helps you maintain compliance with regulatory standards, avoiding potential legal complications effectively.
- Employee Benefits Administration: Manages a comprehensive range of benefits including health, dental, vision insurance, and retirement plans.
- Integration Options: Offers seamless integration with popular tools like Altametrix, Deputy, and Beekeeper for enhanced operational efficiency.
- Tax Form Management: Handles essential tax forms like W-2s, W-4s, and 1099s, simplifying the overall tax process.
Pros
Cons
Pricing:
- Price: Request a free quote from sales
How does Paychex compare to Gusto?
- Paychex provides far better plans than Gusto to address the unique needs of SMEs, Solopreneurs, and Medium Scale Businesses
- Paychex provides much better support for job postings and screening process (including background checks) compared to Gusto
What are the reasons to switch out of Gusto?
Gusto is one of the ideal payroll and HR software, but they have some drawbacks due to which you might consider switching out of Gusto.
Like:
- It has a pretty average interface for Android and iOS. Many competitors have far better mobile apps than Gusto.
- Many Gusto competitors provide quicker direct deposit speeds to pay employees far faster than Gusto.
How Did We Choose Best Gusto Competitors?
At Guru99, our commitment to credibility is unwavering. We focus on delivering accurate, relevant, and objective information through rigorous content creation and review. After researching 45+ Gusto Competitors and investing 115+ hours, I have evaluated the best free and paid solutions. While Gusto is a popular choice, it lacks 24/7 support. Choosing the right payroll software is crucial, and our insights aim to help you select the best option for your needs.
- Features Analysis: We looked for tools offering comprehensive payroll, tax filing, and HR features.
- User Experience: Considered platforms that provide a user-friendly interface and seamless navigation.
- Pricing: We aimed to include options that offer flexible pricing plans for businesses of all sizes.
- Customer Support: It is essential to choose software with reliable customer service for prompt assistance.
- Integration Capabilities: We prioritized tools that integrate well with other essential business software.
- Security Measures: In fact, we considered tools with strong data protection to safeguard sensitive information.
- User Feedback: According to user reviews, we selected platforms with high satisfaction ratings.
- Scalability: Keep in mind the software’s ability to grow with your business needs.
Verdict:
In this review, you got acquainted with some of the best Gusto competitors. All of them have their distinct strengths. To help you decide, I have crafted this verdict.
- OnPay provides a robust, cost-effective payroll solution with customizable features that simplify payroll processing for small businesses.
- Insperity offers a comprehensive, user-friendly platform that seamlessly integrates HR, payroll, and IT, making it a top-notch choice.
- Rippling stands out with its powerful suite of features, offering secure and scalable solutions for enterprises seeking a reliable payroll service.