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What is Gusto?
Gusto is a comprehensive cloud-based platform designed to simplify payroll, benefits, and HR management for small to mid-sized businesses. It offers an intuitive system that integrates payroll processing with health insurance, 401(k) plans, and other employee benefits, which are easily managed through its user-friendly interface.
Key features of Gusto include automated payroll functionalities, such as unlimited payroll runs, direct deposit, and detailed payroll reports. It also ensures compliance with payroll taxes, automatically calculating and filing all federal, state, and local taxes. Additionally, Gusto supports multiple pay rates and schedules and provides the capability to run payroll from anywhere, enhancing flexibility for business owners.
The platform extends beyond payroll to offer robust HR tools. These include hiring and onboarding, performance management, and custom analytics and reporting, all integrated into one system. This streamlines the hiring process with features like applicant tracking and customizable onboarding workflows, which can significantly improve operational efficiency.
In terms of benefits, Gusto excels at simplifying administration and ensuring seamless integration with payroll. The platform handles all aspects of benefits management, from health insurance enrollment to compliance support, without extra administration charges.
Overall, Gusto stands out for its comprehensive service offerings that cater to the essential needs of managing a growing workforce, emphasizing ease of use, automation, and integration.
Best for
StartUpsFreelancersSmall BusinessMedium Business
Pricing
Starting at $40/month · Subscription
Simple
40
Plus
80
Features
50 features that make Gusto stand out.
Benefits Manager
Direct Deposit
Automatic Tax Payment
Payroll Entry
Pre-tax Deductions
Reporting and Dashboards
Performance and Reliability
Tax Calculation
Tax Filing
Time Off Accrual
User, Role, and Access Management
Wage Garnishment
Web Portal
401(k) Tracking
ACA Reporting
Applicant Tracking
Benefits Administration Outsourcing
Benefits Dashboard
Check Printing
COBRA Administration
Compensation Management
Deduction Management
Disability Insurance Administration
Document Management
E-Verify/I-9 Forms
Electronic Forms
Employee Benefits Administration
Employee Database
Health Insurance Administration
Employee Handbook
Employee Profiles
HIPAA Compliant
HSA/FSA Administration
Life Insurance Administration
Multi-State
Onboarding
Online Benefits Enrollment
Orientation Workflow Management
Payroll Management
Payroll Reporting
Recruitment Management
Retirement Plan Management
Self Service Portal
Task Management
Tax Compliance
Time & Attendance
Training Management
Vacation/Leave Tracking
W-2 Preparation
Wage Garnishment
Pros & Cons
Pros
- User-Friendly InterfaceUsers often appreciate Gusto for its clean, intuitive interface that makes payroll processing and HR tasks simpler.
- Comprehensive FeaturesGusto is known for offering a wide range of services including payroll, benefits administration, and compliance support, which are highly valued by small to medium-sized businesses.
- Helpful Customer SupportMany users report positive experiences with Gusto’s customer service team, noting their helpfulness and responsiveness.
- AutomationThe automation of payroll and tax filings is frequently mentioned as a major time saver for businesses.
- Integration CapabilitiesGusto’s ability to integrate with other tools and software used by businesses (like accounting software) is often highlighted as a plus.
Cons
- PricingSome users find Gusto to be more expensive than other options, especially small businesses with tight budgets.
- Customization LimitationsThere could be more room for customization in certain areas, such as reports or benefit options.
- Learning CurveA few users mention a learning curve when first using the software, particularly for those unfamiliar with payroll or HR software.
- Mobile ExperienceWhile generally good, some users feel the mobile app could offer more functionality or a better user experience.
- Feature AvailabilityDepending on the plan, some desirable features may be locked behind higher-tier subscriptions, which can be a point of contention for smaller users.
Gusto alternatives
Tools buyers consider alongside Gusto.
No alternatives listed yet.
Frequently asked questions
Is Gusto free to use?
Gusto does not currently offer a free tier or free trial. Pricing starts at $40 and depends on the plan you choose.
How much does Gusto cost?
Gusto starts at $40/month. Higher tiers add seat capacity, automation, integrations and enterprise-grade controls.
What does Gusto integrate with?
Gusto integrates with popular tools such as 7shifts, Asana, Breezy HR, ClickUp, Connecteam, plus an open API for custom workflows.
Who is Gusto best suited for?
Gusto is built for teams who need to standardise the workflow it covers — typically growing companies who have outgrown spreadsheets but don't yet need enterprise-grade procurement suites. The exact fit depends on company size, deal volume and compliance requirements.
How long does it take to onboard Gusto?
Most teams are live on Gusto within 2–6 weeks. Simpler implementations (small teams, default workflows) can be done in days; large enterprise rollouts with custom approval chains and ERP integration take longer.
About the authors
Alina Maria StanWriter
Alina Maria Stan is the COO and Co-Founder of Tekpon, where she has utilized her expertise in SaaS, software promotion, and lead generation since July 2020. Her role involves media buying and extensive software branding, contributing significantly to Tekpon’s market presence. Prior to founding Tekpon, Alina served as CEO of King Casino Bonus and Head of Affiliation at Extremoo Media, where she was responsible for branding and affiliate strategies. Her earlier roles include Head of Branding & Affiliation at Fable Media in Denmark and Junior CRM Manager at K.H. ApS, where she developed affiliate
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Ana Maria StanciucEditor
Ana Maria Stanciuc is a highly skilled writer and content strategist with 10+ years of experience. She has experience in technical and creative writing across a variety of industries. With a background in journalism, her expertise goes beyond writing, as she brings a unique combination of creative storytelling and technical accuracy to her work. She is currently the Head of Content at Tekpon and the Editor in Chief for Tekpon Magazine. In her current role, she leverages her extensive writing experience and strategic insight to produce valuable content. Ana-Maria specializes in reviewing and cu
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