Payroll, benefits, and HR platform for small businesses with automatic tax filings and employee self-service.
Pricing Plans
Free
Simple
Plus
Premium
Pricing model: monthly base plus per person
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easiest payroll software to set up and run
- Automatic federal, state, and local tax filings
- Health insurance and 401(k) brokering built-in
- Excellent employee onboarding experience
Cons
- US-only — no international payroll
- Gets expensive as headcount grows
- Limited HR features compared to BambooHR
Best For
Gusto Alternatives
QuickBooks Online
Small business accounting software for invoicing, expense tracking, tax preparation, and financial reporting.
$30+
Xero
Cloud accounting software popular with small businesses and accountants outside the US.
$15+
Deel
Global payroll and compliance platform for hiring international contractors and full-time employees in 150+ countries.
Free / $49+
Harvest
Time tracking and invoicing tool for professional services teams with budget tracking and expense management.
Free / $10.8+
BambooHR
HR software for small and medium businesses covering hiring, onboarding, compensation, and performance management.
Contact sales
Rippling
Unified workforce platform combining HR, IT, and Finance with device management, payroll, and benefits in one system.
$8+Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gusto?
Payroll, benefits, and HR platform for small businesses with automatic tax filings and employee self-service.
How much does Gusto cost?
Gusto does not offer a free plan. Paid plans include: Simple: $40/mo, Plus: $80/mo.
What are the best alternatives to Gusto?
The best alternatives to Gusto include QuickBooks Online, Xero, Deel, Harvest. Each offers similar functionality with different strengths in features, pricing, and ease of use.
Is Gusto free?
No, Gusto does not offer a free plan. However, they may offer a free trial. Check their website for current offers.
What is Gusto best for?
Gusto is best for Small Businesses, Startups, Accountants, Us Companies. It is designed to serve these audiences with specialized features and workflows.