20 Best Gusto Alternatives Reviewed In 2025
Best Gusto Alternatives Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 20 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
Let’s be real—managing payroll and HR isn’t exactly the highlight of your day. And if Gusto isn’t quite cutting it for your business, it’s time to find a better fit.
In the financial sector, you need a solution that’s efficient, compliant, and won’t break the bank. That's why I've done the homework for you, using my experience in financial strategy to round up the best Gusto alternatives that can streamline payroll, keep you in control, and integrate smoothly with your financial systems.
Ready to ditch the headaches and find a better payroll and HR solution? Let’s dive in!
Need expert help selecting the right tool?
With one-on-one help, we guide you to your top software options. Narrow down your software search & make a confident choice.
What Is Gusto?
Gusto is an HR and payroll software designed to simplify payroll and benefits management for small to medium-sized businesses. It’s commonly used by HR professionals and business owners who need efficient tools to handle employee-related tasks.
These tools generally come with key features, such as payroll processing, benefits administration, and tax filing to help with reducing manual tasks and ensuring compliance. Overall, Gusto provides value by offering an easy-to-use platform that helps you manage your team's payroll and HR needs efficiently.
Why Look For a Gusto Alternative?
While Gusto is a valuable HR and payroll software, there are a number of reasons why some users seek out alternative solutions. You might be looking for a Gusto alternative because…
- You need more customization options
- Your business is expanding internationally
- You require industry-specific compliance
- You have a larger team with complex needs
- You’re looking for better customer support
If any of these sound like you, you’ve come to the right place. My list contains several HR and payroll software options that are better suited for teams facing these challenges and looking for alternative solutions.
Best Gusto Alternatives Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top Gusto alternative selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  TriNet TriNet provides full-service HR support, benefits, compliance, and risk management. | Best for full-service HR support | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
| 2 |  Namely Namely offers a scalable, customizable HR platform for growing businesses. | Best advanced HR software | Free demo available | From $9/user/month | Website |
| 3 |  UKG UKG provides insights and tools for strategic HR and employee growth. | Best for comprehensive HCM solutions | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
| 4 |  ADP ADP provides global payroll services for managing international workforces. | Best for global payroll services | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
| 5 |  Dayforce Dayforce provides AI-driven HR insights to optimize workforce planning and trends. | Best for large teams needing compliance tools | Free demo available | From $6/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| 6 |  SurePayroll SurePayroll offers simple, efficient payroll management for small businesses. | Best for small business payroll needs | 6-month free trial + free demo available | From $20/month + $4/user/month | Website |
| 7 |  Patriot Patriot offers affordable, easy payroll solutions, ideal for small businesses. | Best for affordable payroll solutions | 30-day free trial + free demo available | From $8.50/month (for 3 months, then $17/month) | Website |
| 8 |  Paylocity Paylocity uses AI for HR insights, aiding data-driven decisions and planning. | Best for AI-driven HR insights | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
| 9 |  Justworks Justworks provides HR support, compliance tools, and employee benefits options. | Best for full-service HR support | Free demo available | From $8/user/month + $50/month (base fee) | Website |
| 10 |  Paycor Paycor simplifies talent management with tools for hiring, onboarding, and growth. | Best for talent management tools | 30-day free trial | Pricing upon request | Website |
Why Trust Our Software Reviews
We’ve been testing and reviewing business finance software since 2023. As CFOs ourselves, we know how critical and difficult it is to make the right decision when selecting software. We invest in deep research to help our audience make better software purchasing decisions.
We’ve tested more than 2,000 tools for different business finance use cases and written over 1,000 comprehensive software reviews. Learn how we stay transparent & check out our software review methodology.
Best Gusto Alternatives Reviews
Below are my detailed summaries of the best Gusto alternatives that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer an in-depth look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
TriNet is a PEO that provides detailed HR services to small and medium-sized businesses. It covers payroll, benefits, risk management, and compliance.
Why it's a good Gusto alternative: TriNet offers full-service HR support with features like benefits administration, compliance assistance, and risk management, making it ideal for businesses looking to outsource their HR tasks. The platform also provides access to a wide range of employee benefits, helping you attract and retain talent. Plus, TriNet’s compliance tools help navigate the complexities of employment regulations, reducing legal risks.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include performance management to help your team track and improve employee performance. Its payroll processing ensures accurate and timely payments, while the software’s recruitment tools streamline the hiring process, making it more efficient.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, Sage, ADP, Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, BambooHR, Oracle, and Workday.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong benefits administration
- Effective compliance tools
- Risk management features
Cons:
- Requires extensive onboarding
- Limited customization options
Namely is an all-in-one HR software platform designed for mid-sized companies. It handles key business functions like payroll, benefits administration, and talent management.
Why it's a good Gusto alternative: Namely provides an advanced HR solution with features that cater to more extensive HR needs than Gusto. It includes performance management tools, benefits administration, and payroll processing that integrate seamlessly into your HR operations. Additionally, the platform’s focus on employee engagement through self-service portals and social news feeds helps enhance workplace communication.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include custom workflows, compliance management, and advanced reporting. Namely’s custom workflows enable your team to streamline HR processes efficiently, while its compliance management helps you stay on top of regulatory requirements, minimizing risks. Plus, its advanced reporting provides insights into your workforce, aiding in strategic decision-making.
Integrations include QuickBooks, NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics, Okta, Google Workspace, Slack, ADP, Ultimate Software, Kronos, and Greenhouse.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong compliance tools
- Scalable for midsize businesses
- Engaging employee portals
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve
- Some reporting limitations
UKG is an advanced human capital management solution aimed at large enterprises. It covers core business functions like payroll, talent management, and workforce analytics.
Why it's a good Gusto alternative: UKG offers advanced AI-driven insights that enhance your HR capabilities. The platform's predictive analytics and workforce forecasting help in making strategic decisions. It also includes talent acquisition and performance management to support employee growth. Together, these capabilities make UKG a strong fit for organizations seeking sophisticated HR tools.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include compliance management to ensure your team adheres to industry regulations. The software’s mobile access also allows you to manage HR tasks on the go, enhancing flexibility, while its employee engagement tools help improve workplace satisfaction and productivity.
Integrations include Salesforce, SAP SuccessFactors, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, Kronos, Workday, ADP, QuickBooks, and LinkedIn.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Advanced AI-driven insights
- Strong compliance tools
- Effective performance management
Cons:
- Requires extensive training
- Can be overwhelming for new users
ADP is an advanced payroll and HR solution designed for businesses of all sizes. It supports various functions including payroll, HR management, and talent management.
Why it's a good Gusto alternative: ADP offers global payroll services, making it suitable for businesses with international operations. Its features include multi-country payroll processing and compliance with international regulations. You can also manage diverse workforces easily with tools tailored to global operations. Together, these features make ADP an excellent choice for businesses needing to manage payroll and HR across borders.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include benefits administration to help you manage and optimize employee benefits programs. The software’s workforce analytics provide insights into your team’s performance and productivity. Plus, its mobile access ensures your team can manage HR tasks on the go, enhancing flexibility.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Microsoft Dynamics, Salesforce, Oracle, SAP SuccessFactors, Kronos, Workday, BambooHR, and Xero.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Global payroll capabilities
- Effective workforce analytics
- Mobile access features
Cons:
- Complex setup process
- Limited customization options
Dayforce is an advanced HCM (Human Capital Management) platform tailored for larger organizations. It supports key business functions such as payroll, benefits, and workforce management.
Why it's a good Gusto alternative: Dayforce offers AI-driven HR insights that empower your team to make informed decisions. Its real-time data analytics help you optimize workforce planning and performance management, while the platform’s key features help provide valuable insights into employee trends. Ultimately, this makes Dayforce a strong choice for companies looking to enhance their HR strategies through advanced analytics.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include compliance management, talent acquisition, and employee engagement tools. Additionally, the software’s compliance management helps your team adhere to regulations, reducing legal risks, while its talent acquisition features streamline your hiring process, improving efficiency.
Integrations include Microsoft Dynamics, Salesforce, Workday, ADP, SAP SuccessFactors, Oracle, Kronos, QuickBooks, Xero, and LinkedIn.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong compliance management
- Advanced analytics capabilities
- Effective talent acquisition tools
Cons:
- Can be overwhelming for new users
- Limited flexibility in customization
SurePayroll is an online payroll software solution tailored for small businesses, startups, and household employers. It helps manage payroll tasks and tax filing efficiently.
Why it's a good Gusto alternative: SurePayroll caters specifically to small businesses, focusing on simple and efficient payroll management. The user-friendly platform reduces the time you spend on payroll tasks, allowing you to narrow in on your business. Additionally, its focus on small business needs makes it a practical choice for those seeking personalized payroll services.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include the ability to automate payroll reminders, compliance with tax regulations, and mobile payroll access. You’ll receive reminders that help you stay on schedule. The platform also ensures compliance with tax laws, reducing the risk of errors, and you can manage payroll from anywhere using your mobile device.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, TimeClock Plus, QuickBooks Online, Tsheets, Sage, BambooHR, FreshBooks, Gusto, and Deputy.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Simple payroll process
- Mobile access for flexibility
- Automatic tax calculations
Cons:
- Not ideal for larger businesses
- Fewer advanced HR tools
Patriot is an online payroll and accounting software designed for small businesses and accountants. It supports key business functions like payroll processing and tax management.
Why it's a good Gusto alternative: Patriot offers affordable payroll solutions with straightforward pricing that can fit small business budgets. The software simplifies the payroll process with easy setup and step-by-step guidance, which is perfect for teams needing cost-effective solutions. These features, combined with its affordability and ease of use, make it a strong contender as a Gusto alternative.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include simple payroll setup, tax filing accuracy, and customizable reporting. The software also helps your team generate customizable reports to fit your specific financial needs.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, TSheets, FreshBooks, Gusto, TimeClock Plus, BambooHR, SurePayroll, Gusto, and Sage.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Accurate tax filing
- Affordable for small businesses
- Customizable reports
Cons:
- Basic accounting tools
- Limited scalability for larger businesses
Paylocity is a cloud-based platform tailored to support mid-sized businesses in managing key HR and payroll needs.
Why it's a good Gusto alternative: Paylocity leverages AI to provide HR insights, enhancing decision-making and strategic planning. Its analytics features offer valuable data on employee performance and engagement. You can also use AI-driven insights to improve HR strategies and optimize workforce management. Overall, this focus on analytics makes Paylocity a suitable option for businesses that want to take a data-driven approach to HR.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include benefits administration, expense management, and performance tracking. The platform’s benefits administration simplifies the management of employee benefits programs. Additionally, its expense management helps you keep track of business expenses efficiently.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, Microsoft Dynamics, NetSuite, ADP, Kronos, Cornerstone, DocuSign, Indeed, and ZipRecruiter.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Good for mid-sized businesses
- Comprehensive reporting tools
- Employee engagement features
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Requires training for effective use
Justworks is a Professional Employer Organization (PEO) that simplifies payroll, benefits, compliance, and HR for small to medium-sized businesses. It provides an all-in-one platform to manage employee-related tasks efficiently.
Why it's a good Gusto alternative: Justworks combines payroll, benefits administration, compliance assistance, and HR tools into one platform. It provides small and mid-sized businesses with enterprise-level benefits, including health insurance, 401(k) plans, and workers’ compensation. Plus, the platform’s focus on compliance helps you navigate complex regulations with ease, making it a valuable resource for businesses seeking comprehensive employee support.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated tax filings, time and attendance tracking, and strong reporting. You can rely on automated tax filings to ensure accuracy and reduce manual work, while the software’s time and attendance tracking feature helps you manage employee hours effectively.
Integrations include Xero, QuickBooks Online, Guideline, Mineral, ThinkHR, Formstack, PosterElite, Mineral, and ZipRecruiter.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive compliance support
- Access to health benefits
- 24/7 customer service
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Complex onboarding process
Paycor is a human capital management software designed for small to medium-sized businesses. It provides solutions for payroll, HR, and talent management to streamline business operations.
Why it's a good Gusto alternative: Paycor excels in talent management, offering tools that help with recruiting and onboarding. It includes features like applicant tracking and performance reviews, making it easier to manage your workforce effectively. The platform’s focus on employee development with learning management tools also helps to set it apart from other payroll options.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include payroll processing, compliance tools, and employee self-service. The software’s payroll processing ensures your team gets paid accurately and on time, while its compliance tools help you navigate complex regulations effortlessly. Additionally, its employee self-service gives your staff access to their information, reducing administrative tasks.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, ADP, Sage, Microsoft Dynamics, NetSuite, Microsoft Teams, Google Workspace, Indeed, and ZipRecruiter.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Effective onboarding process
- Compliance support
- Employee self-service options
Cons:
- Complex setup process
- Limited customization
Other Gusto Alternatives
Here are some additional Gusto alternatives that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:
- Homebase
For managing hourly teams
- OnPay
For transparent pricing
- BambooHR
For small to medium-sized businesses
- Deel
For managing global contractors
- Rise
For Canadian payroll solutions
- Workday
For enterprise HR and finance needs
- Rippling
For integrating various business apps
- Payworks
For payroll compliance in Canada
- HoneyBook
For freelancers
- Workable
For recruitment and hiring processes
Gusto Alternatives Selection Criteria
When selecting the best Gusto alternatives to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points related to HR and payroll software products, like compliance with tax regulations and scalability for growing businesses. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Process payroll accurately
- Manage employee benefits
- Track time and attendance
- Provide tax filing capabilities
- Offer employee self-service portals
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- AI-driven analytics
- Global payroll capabilities
- Advanced compliance tools
- Customizable reporting
- Mobile app functionality
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive user interface
- Easy navigation
- Clear instructions
- Fast performance
- Minimal clicks to complete tasks
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Access to templates
- Use of chatbots
- Webinars for new users
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- Availability of live chat
- 24/7 customer support
- Access to a knowledge base
- Email support response time
- Phone support options
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Transparent pricing
- Cost relative to features offered
- Discounts for annual billing
- Availability of free trials
- Scalability of pricing plans
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Consistency in positive feedback
- Commonly reported issues
- Feedback on customer service
- Overall satisfaction ratings
- User recommendations
Key Features of Gusto Alternatives
Here are some of the key features of Gusto that your alternative solutions should offer:
- Automated Payroll and Tax Filing: Calculates, files, and pays all local, state, and federal payroll taxes automatically, saving you time and reducing errors.
- Employee Benefits Administration: Offers health insurance, 401(k) plans, and other benefits to your team.
- Time Tracking and PTO Management: Provides tools for employees to log their hours and request time off, which syncs directly with basic payroll for accurate compensation.
- Hiring and Onboarding Tools: Creates and sends offer letters, sets up onboarding checklists, and allows new hire reporting to be completed online, making the hiring process smoother.
- Employee Self-Service Portal: Team members can access their pay stubs, benefits information, and personal details through a secure online portal, reducing administrative tasks for you.
- Compliance Support: Helps you stay compliant with labor laws and tax regulations by providing necessary forms and handling filings, giving you peace of mind.
- Integration with Other Software: Connects with your favorite tools and software, such as accounting and time-tracking applications, to streamline your workflow.
- Employee Performance Management: Conducts performance reviews and provides development tools to help your team grow and stay engaged.
- Contractor Payments: Helps you pay contractors and manage their tax forms, simplifying the process of working with freelancers.
- Customizable Reports: Generates reports on payroll, benefits, and other HR metrics so you can gain insights into your business operations and make informed decisions.
What's Next?
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