Gusto Review
All-in-one payroll, benefits, and HR platform
Overall Rating
Based on our testing
Quick Answer
Gusto scores 9/10 in our testing. It's best for full-service payroll included and excellent benefits administration. Key strength: Full-service payroll included. Main weakness: Limited for larger companies.
Quick Summary
Gusto combines payroll, benefits, and HR in one modern platform. Originally known for payroll, Gusto has grown into a full HR solution loved by small businesses for its simplicity and all-in-one approach.
Pros & Cons
What we like
- Full-service payroll included
- Excellent benefits administration
- Very user-friendly
- Automated tax filing
- Great for small businesses
- Transparent pricing
What could be better
- Limited for larger companies
- Some features cost extra
- International payroll limited
Typical Promotions
- •First month free
- •Switching bonus
Best time to buy: Check for first month free offers
Gusto Pricing
- Next-day direct deposit
- Time tracking
- PTO management
- Performance reviews
- $12/person/month
- Dedicated support
- Compliance alerts
- HR resource center
- Custom pricing
- Full-service payroll
- Employee self-service
- Basic hiring tools
- $6/person/month
Key Features
Gusto In-Depth Review
Gusto is Gusto combines payroll, benefits, and HR in one modern platform. Originally known for payroll, Gusto has grown into a full HR solution loved by small businesses for its simplicity and all-in-one approach. With an overall rating of 9/10 based on our testing, it stands as one of the top options in the hr software space.
Key Findings
- Full-service payroll included: This stands out in our testing as a key strength of Gusto.
- Excellent benefits administration: This stands out in our testing as a key strength of Gusto.
- Very user-friendly: This stands out in our testing as a key strength of Gusto.
Performance & Speed
Gusto performed exceptionally well in our testing. Full-service payroll included.
Features & Functionality
Gusto includes employee database, onboarding, time tracking, pto management. The feature set is comprehensive and well-implemented, covering most user needs without unnecessary bloat. We particularly appreciated full-service payroll included.
Pricing & Value
Gusto offers a free tier, making it accessible for users to try before committing. Paid plans start at $40/month. The free option is genuinely useful, not just a limited trial.
Ease of Use
Gusto's interface is intuitive and well-designed. New users should feel comfortable within minutes of signing up. There's room for UX improvements, but core functionality is accessible.
Our Testing Methodology
We tested this hr software extensively over several weeks, evaluating real-world performance, ease of use, and value for money.
- Users who prioritize full-service payroll included
- Those seeking a premium, reliable solution
- Budget-conscious users who want to try before buying
- Users seeking value without sacrificing essential features
- Users who can't accept limited for larger companies
- Budget-restricted users who need a more affordable option
The Bottom Line
Gusto is an excellent choice that we confidently recommend. It excels in full-service payroll included while offering strong value at $40/month.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some products are sponsored. Rankings reflect our honest assessment. Our editorial content is independent and unbiased. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through our links. Read our full disclosure
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Gusto FAQ
How much does Gusto cost?
Gusto starts at $0.00/mo for the Simple plan. They also offer Plus ($80/mo), Premium ($0/mo).
Is Gusto worth it in 2025?
Gusto scores 9/10 in our testing. Full-service payroll included. However, limited for larger companies.
What are the pros and cons of Gusto?
Pros: Full-service payroll included; Excellent benefits administration; Very user-friendly. Cons: Limited for larger companies; Some features cost extra; International payroll limited.
Is Gusto safe to use?
Gusto is a legitimate hr software service. We recommend reviewing their privacy policy for full details.
Does Gusto have a free plan?
Yes, Gusto offers a free plan with Dedicated support, Compliance alerts. Paid plans start at $40/mo.