10 Best Gusto Alternatives in 2025: Complete Comparison Guide

Looking for the best Gusto alternatives in 2025? Gusto is popular for payroll and HR, but it isn’t built for every business. It works best for very small teams, think small businesses with less than 20 employees, that mainly need simple payroll runs and basic benefits administration. Once companies start scaling or need multi-state compliance, global payroll, or more advanced HR services, Gusto’s limitations become clear.

This guide is for US founders, HR pros, and small business owners who want straightforward payroll management, employee onboarding, and workforce management solutions without hitting roadblocks as they grow. We’ll break down the top Gusto competitors, highlight key features, and help you pick the right payroll provider for your team in 2025.

What is Gusto?[toc=Gusto Overview]

Gusto is a cloud-based payroll and HR platform designed for small businesses with fewer than 100 employees. It combines payroll services, benefits administration, and basic HR tools in one system, offering unlimited payroll runs, automated tax filings, and employee self-service features.

Key features include:

• Automated payroll processing with direct deposit and tax calculations
• Employee benefits management including health insurance and retirement plans
• Employee portal for accessing pay stubs, tax forms, and benefits
• Basic HR services like employee onboarding and new hire reporting
• Integration with popular accounting software

Gusto works best for small business owners who need straightforward payroll management for salaried employees and contractors. The platform handles payroll taxes, compliance tools, and employee data in one place, making it easier than managing multiple systems.

Who should consider Gusto alternatives? While Gusto offers transparent pricing starting at $40 per month plus $6 per employee, many businesses outgrow its capabilities. Companies needing global payroll, advanced workforce management, or professional employer organization (PEO) services often switch to more robust payroll providers.

The platform's limitations become apparent for businesses requiring international payroll, complex employee management, or extensive HR processes beyond basic payroll and benefits administration.

What are the best Gusto alternatives in 2025?[toc=Top 10 Gusto Alternatives]

As businesses grow and their payroll needs become more complex, many are looking for alternatives to Gusto. Whether it’s the need for global payroll, more advanced HR tools, or transparent pricing, several providers offer solutions that better align with evolving business requirements.

Based on our evaluation of payroll providers, benefits administration, and HR services, here are the leading Gusto competitors offering superior payroll management, employee onboarding, and workforce management solutions for small business owners and HR professionals.

Top 10 Gusto Competitors & Alternatives in 2025:

1. Rippling
2. Deel
3. ADP (RUN Powered by ADP)
4. QuickBooks Payroll
5. Paychex Flex
6. BambooHR
7. Justworks
8. OnPay
9. Patriot Software
10. Wisemonk

1. Rippling

Rippling is an all-in-one platform that unifies HR, payroll services, and IT management for growing businesses. This comprehensive workforce management solution automates employee onboarding, payroll processing, and benefits administration while integrating with 500+ business applications. Unlike traditional payroll providers, Rippling's modular approach lets you add features like device management, expense tracking, and global payroll as needed. The platform excels at automated payroll runs, tax filings, and employee self-service features that streamline HR processes for small business owners.

Best for: Tech-forward companies needing integrated HR, IT, and payroll management; businesses requiring automated workflows and extensive integrations.

Key Features:

• Unlimited payroll runs with automated payroll processing and tax calculations
• Complete employee onboarding in 90 seconds with employee self-service portal
• Global payroll and international payroll capabilities in 120+ countries
• Device and app management with mobile access for employee management
• Benefits administration including health insurance and retirement plans
• 500+ integrations with accounting software, CRMs, and business tools
• Time and attendance tracking with built-in compliance tools

Pricing: Starts at $8 per employee per month. Custom quotes required for additional modules.

To know more about Rippling's alternatives, refer to this detailed guide on "10 Best Rippling Competitors & Alternatives 2025" & "Gusto vs Rippling 2025: Best HR & Payroll Software "

2. Deel

Deel is a global payroll platform specializing in international hiring, contractor management, and multi-country payroll for distributed teams. This comprehensive EOR solution enables companies to hire full-time employees and contractors in 150+ countries while maintaining legal compliance and automated payroll processing. Deel excels at global payroll, benefits administration, and tax filings across multiple jurisdictions. The platform provides employee self-service tools, mobile access, and integrated compliance tools for seamless workforce management.

Best for: Companies hiring globally; businesses needing international payroll and contractor management; startups expanding across borders.

Key Features:

• Global payroll processing in 150+ countries and currencies
• EOR services and contractor management with legal compliance
• Automated payroll with local tax calculations and filings
• Benefits administration with country-specific packages
• Employee onboarding and mobile app access
• Time tracking and expense management tools
• AI-powered compliance tools and legal support

Pricing: Contractors: $49/month per person. EOR services: $599/month per employee.

Read more: Top 10 Deel Competitors & Alternatives in 2025 & Deel vs Rippling Comparison 2025

3. ADP (RUN Powered by ADP)

ADP RUN is a comprehensive payroll platform designed for small businesses with 1-49 employees, offering automated payroll, tax filings, and HR services. This cloud-based payroll solution provides scalable plans that grow with your business, from basic payroll processing to full HR management with benefits administration. ADP's 75+ years of experience ensures legal compliance, accurate tax calculations, and reliable payroll taxes handling. The platform includes employee self-service features, mobile access, and dedicated support from payroll specialists.

Best for: Small businesses needing reliable, scalable payroll services with growth potential; companies requiring strong compliance tools.

Key Features:

• Full-service payroll with automated tax filings and payments
• Employee onboarding tools and HR support services
• Benefits administration and workers' compensation management
• Time and attendance tracking with mobile app access
• Employee self-service portal for payroll data and benefits
• Multi-state payroll compliance and new hire reporting
• Direct deposit and multiple payment options for hourly employees

Pricing: Starts at $79/month + $4 per employee. Custom quotes for higher tiers.

Read more: Top 10 ADP Competitors & Alternatives for 2025 & Rippling vs ADP Comparison 2025: Which is Best for you?

4. QuickBooks Payroll

QuickBooks Payroll is a cloud-based payroll software designed for small businesses already using QuickBooks accounting software. This payroll platform automates tax filings, payroll taxes, and direct deposit while seamlessly syncing with QuickBooks Online for streamlined financial management. The system handles unlimited payroll runs, employee benefits management, and provides employee self-service access to pay stubs and tax forms. Perfect for small business owners who want integrated payroll and benefits without switching payroll providers.

Best for: Businesses using QuickBooks accounting; small businesses needing simple, integrated payroll management.

Key Features:

• Automated payroll processing with tax calculations and filings
• Same-day direct deposit and next-day direct deposit options
• Employee self-service portal for payroll data and tax documents
• Health insurance and 401(k) plans management
• Time tracking integration with QuickBooks Time
• Workers' compensation administration and tax penalty protection
• Mobile app for payroll processing and employee access

Pricing: Core plan: $50/month + $6.50 per employee. Premium: $85/month + $9 per employee. Elite: $130/month + $11 per employee.

5. Paychex (Paychex Flex)

Paychex Flex is a scalable payroll platform designed for businesses with 1-1,000 employees, offering comprehensive HR services and payroll management. This cloud-based solution combines automated payroll processing, benefits administration, and advanced workforce management tools in one integrated system. Paychex excels at multi-state payroll, tax filings, and employee self-service features while providing dedicated support from HR professionals. The platform includes time tracking, applicant tracking, and performance management tools for complete human resources management.

Best for: Growing businesses needing scalable payroll and HR solutions; companies with remote teams requiring comprehensive workforce management.

Key Features:

• Unlimited payroll runs with automated tax calculations and filings
• Benefits administration including health insurance and retirement plans
• Time and attendance tracking with scheduling capabilities
• Employee onboarding and applicant tracking system
• Mobile app with employee self-service portal
• 300+ integrations with business applications
• Multi-state payroll compliance and legal compliance support

Pricing: Custom quotes only. Reported to start around $79/month plus per-employee fees.

6. BambooHR

BambooHR is a comprehensive HR platform that combines employee management, payroll services, and applicant tracking for small to medium-sized businesses. This all-in-one solution emphasizes employee experience with intuitive HR tools, performance management, and optional payroll processing. BambooHR excels at employee onboarding, benefits administration, and time tracking while providing employee self-service features and mobile access. The platform is designed for hr professionals who prioritize employee engagement and streamlined human resources management.

Best for: HR-focused businesses; companies prioritizing employee experience and performance management; organizations needing comprehensive HR tools.

Key Features:

• Employee database and HR management with self-service portal
• Applicant tracking system and employee onboarding tools
• Performance management and employee engagement features
• Optional payroll processing with tax filings (add-on)
• Benefits administration and time tracking
• Mobile app for employee access and HR professionals
• Reporting tools and workforce analytics

Pricing: Custom quotes only. Starts around $19/month per employee.

7. Justworks

Justworks is a professional employer organization (PEO) that provides comprehensive payroll, benefits administration, and HR services under a co-employment model. This all-in-one platform helps small businesses access Fortune 500-level health insurance plans, automated payroll processing, and compliance tools. Justworks handles tax filings, workers' compensation, and employee onboarding while providing dedicated HR support for complex employment issues. The platform is ideal for growing companies wanting full-service payroll and HR management without building internal teams.

Best for: Growing small businesses needing comprehensive HR support; companies wanting professional employer organization services and Fortune 500-level benefits.

Key Features:

• Full-service payroll with automated tax filings and compliance tools
• Benefits administration with access to large-group health insurance rates
• Employee onboarding and HR services with dedicated support
• Workers' compensation and retirement plans management
• Time tracking and mobile app for employee self-service
• PTO tracking and employee management tools
• 24/7 support and multi-state compliance assistance

Pricing: Basic PEO: $59/employee/month (up to 50 employees). Scales down for larger teams.

Read more: 10 Best Justworks Alternatives & Competitors in 2025 & Gusto vs Justworks Comparison 2025: Which One is Best?

8. OnPay

OnPay delivers simple payroll software with transparent pricing and unlimited payroll runs for small to medium-sized businesses. This user-friendly platform automates payroll processing, tax filings, and benefits administration without hidden fees or complex tiers. OnPay excels at multi-state payroll, provides employee self-service tools, and includes workers' compensation management. The all-in-one solution supports both W-2 employees and 1099 contractors with direct deposit and mobile access.

Best for: Small businesses wanting transparent pricing; companies needing straightforward payroll and HR without complexity.

Key Features:

• Unlimited payroll runs with automated tax filings
• Benefits administration and health insurance management
• Employee self-service portal for payroll data and documents
• Time tracking and attendance management tools
• Workers' compensation and retirement plans support
• Direct deposit and contractor payments processing
• Mobile app with full employee access

Pricing: $40/month + $6 per employee. No setup fees or hidden fees.

9. Patriot Software

Patriot Software offers affordable payroll software designed for small businesses with straightforward payroll processing needs. This user-friendly platform provides unlimited payroll runs, automated tax filings, and employee self-service features at competitive rates. Patriot excels at basic payroll functions, direct deposit, and tax calculations while maintaining transparent pricing without hidden fees. The platform supports both W-2 employees and 1099 contractors with mobile access and simple hr tools.

Best for: Small businesses needing basic payroll at affordable rates; companies with simple payroll processing requirements.

Key Features:

• Unlimited payroll runs for employees and contractors
• Automated tax filings and payroll taxes calculations
• Employee self-service portal for pay stubs and tax forms
• Direct deposit and mobile app access
• Time tracking and PTO management
• Workers' compensation administration
• Free setup and US-based customer support

Pricing: Basic: $17/month + $4 per employee. Full-service: $37/month + $4 per employee.

10. Wisemonk

Wisemonk is India's leading professional employer organization (PEO) and Employer of Record service for US companies expanding globally. This payroll and HR platform specializes in international payroll, benefits administration, and complete HR support without requiring local entity setup. Unlike other payroll providers, Wisemonk offers transparent pricing with no hidden fees, making it ideal for small business owners and startups entering the Indian market. Our all-in-one platform handles everything from automated payroll processing to compliance tools and employee onboarding.

Best for: US companies hiring in India, startups needing global payroll solutions, and businesses wanting professional employer organization services with transparent pricing.

Key Features:

• Automated payroll processing with accurate tax calculations and payroll taxes compliance
• Complete HR services including employee onboarding, contracts, and benefits administration
• Employee self-service portal for accessing payroll data, pay stubs, and benefits
• 2-4 day employee onboarding for both salaried employees and contractors
• Full legal compliance with Indian labor codes (PF, ESI, PT, TDS, GST)
• Equipment provisioning and workforce management solutions
• Mobile access for HR professionals and employee management

Pricing: Custom Pricing. No setup fees or hidden fees.

Gusto Alternatives: Detailed Feature Comparison for 2025[toc=Feature Comparison Table]

What do Gusto users say?[toc=Gusto User Reviews]

Gusto positive reviews:

"I like using Gusto because it makes payroll and time off so much easier to manage. Everything is online, which saves me time and cuts down on mistakes. I don’t have to worry about tax filings or compliance since Gusto handles that automatically. My employees also appreciate having their own portal where they can see pay stubs, request time off, and manage their benefits. For me, the biggest upside is how user-friendly it is—it keeps everything organized in one place and takes the stress out of payroll."
-Adam G., Physiatry Nurse Practitioner, Enterprise, rated 5/5 stars on G2

"Gusto makes payroll incredibly simple and reliable. Everything from calculating wages to handling taxes is automated and accurate, which saves me a ton of time. The interface is clean, easy to use, and I never have to second-guess whether my team will be paid correctly or on time. I also like the extra HR tools that come included."
-Asthon M., IT Manager at a NYC gardening platform, Mid-Market, rated 5/5 stars on G2

Gusto negative reviews:

"While I find Gusto really helpful overall, there are a few things that could be better. Sometimes the reporting features feel a little limited, and I wish I could customize them more easily to fit my needs. The customer support is usually good, but there have been times when it took longer than I’d like to get an answer. Also, the pricing can add up as you bring on more employees, so it’s something to keep in mind for growing businesses. None of these are dealbreakers, but they’re the areas I’ve noticed that could use improvement."
-Adam G., Physiatry Nurse Practitioner, Enterprise, rated 5/5 stars on G2

"Sometimes there are delays in customer service on really busy days but despite that they work hard to try and reach everyone and solve their problems."
-Asthon M., IT Manager at a NYC gardening platform, Mid-Market, rated 5/5 stars on G2

How to choose the right payroll software for your business?[toc=How to Choose]

The best payroll software choice depends on four key factors: your existing software ecosystem, company size and growth plans, global hiring needs, and required features like PEO services or compliance automation.

1. Integration capabilities matter most for daily operations. Your payroll system needs to sync seamlessly with your current accounting software, time tracking tools, and HR platforms. QuickBooks Payroll works best if you're already using QuickBooks for accounting, while Rippling excels at connecting multiple business systems automatically.
2. Company size determines the complexity you need. Small businesses under 50 employees typically benefit from simple solutions like OnPay or Patriot Software that focus on core payroll functions. Mid-size companies (50-500 employees) require more robust platforms like ADP or Paychex with advanced reporting and benefits management.
3. Global hiring changes everything. If you're hiring internationally or planning to expand globally, prioritize providers with true global capabilities. Wisemonk specializes in India hiring with 83% cost savings compared to competitors like Deel, while Rippling covers 90+ countries for comprehensive international payroll.
4. Specific feature requirements guide your decision. Companies needing full HR outsourcing should consider PEO providers like Justworks or TriNet. Businesses requiring extensive compliance support benefit from specialized providers - Wisemonk for India compliance, ADP for enterprise-level US compliance, or Deel for global contractor management.
5. Budget vs. features creates the final decision point. Affordable options like Patriot Software ($17/month) handle basic payroll, while comprehensive solutions like Wisemonk ($99/month) or Deel ($599/month) provide full global EOR services. Calculate total cost including hidden fees, implementation costs, and employee limits to find your true monthly expense.

What are the common mistakes to avoid when replacing Gusto?[toc=Mistakes to Avoid]

Switching payroll platforms can be tricky. Here are the common mistakes that cost businesses time and money during transitions:

• Focusing only on price: Cheaper plans often exclude payroll tax penalties protection, workers' compensation, or multi-state compliance. Calculate total costs including hidden fees and employee limits.
• Ignoring integrations: Verify your new platform connects with QuickBooks, Slack, or existing time tracking tools. Poor integrations create double data entry and payroll errors.
• Overlooking compliance gaps: Confirm support for your specific needs - India labor laws if using Wisemonk, or PEO services if you need workers' compensation coverage.
• Skipping employee experience: Test the mobile app and self-service portal yourself. Employees need easy access to pay stubs, tax documents, and benefits enrollment without HR intervention.
• Not testing support quality: Contact support with real questions during your trial. Payroll mistakes affect every employee, so responsive support prevents costly delays.

Migration timing matters most. Start transitions between pay periods, never mid-cycle. Allow 2-4 weeks for data migration and employee onboarding to avoid payroll disruptions.

Pick a payroll provider that balances cost, features, and reliability to ensure smooth payroll and HR management.

Wisemonk: Your Trusted Payroll Partner for US Businesses[toc=How Wisemonk Helps]

Wisemonk is a leading Employer of Record (EOR) helping global companies hire, pay, and manage employees, without the hassle of setting up a local entity. With our deep understanding of local employment laws, tax compliance, and cross-border workforce management, we enable businesses to expand quickly while staying compliant and efficient.

‍Here’s what you get with Wisemonk as your EOR partner:‍

• Fast onboarding: Hire top talent in days, not months, with fully compliant contracts and seamless setup.
• Effortless payroll management: We handle salaries, taxes, and statutory filings accurately and on time across geographies.
• Comprehensive employee benefits: From health coverage to paid leave, we offer locally compliant and competitive packages that attract top talent.
• Dedicated HR support: Our HR specialists handle day-to-day operations, employee engagement, and issue resolution, so your team stays happy and productive.
• End-to-end compliance: Stay protected from legal and regulatory risks with our always-updated local expertise.

While India is our core strength, we’re expanding rapidly into key global markets such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and beyond. With Wisemonk, you get a reliable partner for your India operations and your broader global hiring journey.‍

Ready to scale your global team fast, compliant, and without the headaches? Talk to our team today!

What do Wisemonk customers say?

"Working with the Wisemonk team in India has been a genuinely positive experience from day one. They've been consistently accessible and are building fantastic relationships with our local team. As someone based in the UK, I value the quality of compliance Wisemonk brings — I have full confidence when it comes to financial, legal, and HR matters. They've ensured our team is managed in line with local employment law and have also been flexible when we've wanted to go beyond statutory requirements. Whether it's increasing annual leave or tailoring health insurance, they've offered clear guidance to help us enhance the benefits we provide. It's been a great partnership."
- Lisa Jones, Chief People Officer at Couch Health

"I'm very happy that I discovered Wisemonk. They have been a pure pleasure to work with, and their attention to detail is impressive. They helped us understand their pricing model, find top-qualified individuals, interview them, and then onboard them. I gave them criteria for the type of people we sought, and they delivered. The individuals they were able to find have been some of the best engineers I have ever worked with. I recommend Wisemonk to anyone who is in need of staffing assistance."
- Dan Sampson, Head of Engineering at Cobu