Last Updated Mar 2, 2026
Overview
Gusto HR streamlines payroll and benefits for small businesses. It handles all aspects of compensation, including automatic tax calculations, onboarding tools, and expert-guided benefits selection. While customer service has room for improvement, Gusto remains an affordable, full-service HR management and compliance solution.
Overall Rating
Based on 1032 users reviews
4.6
Rating Distribution
Positive
92%
Neutral
5%
Negative
2%
Starting Price
$40
/month
Gusto HR Software Specifications
Employee Information Management
Recruitment and Applicant Tracking
Performance Management
Attendance and Time Tracking
What Is Gusto Software?
Gusto is a cloud-based payroll, benefits, and human resources management solution designed to assist small—to medium-sized businesses.
It streamlines various aspects of workforce management, from payroll processing and benefits administration to compliance and employee onboarding.
The software is known for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive suite of tools that automatically calculate and file payroll taxes and perform various other tasks.
What Is Gusto Software Best For?
The software is best known for its seamless payroll processing feature, which sets it apart from many of its competitors. This feature automates payroll calculations, tax filings, and direct deposits, ensuring accuracy and timeliness. Furthermore, the software’s ability to simplify complex payroll tasks makes it particularly beneficial for small to mid-sized businesses lacking extensive HR resources. This automated and intuitive payroll solution helps companies save time and reduce errors, providing efficiency.
How Much Does Gusto Cost?
There are four Gusto Software pricing plans for companies to choose from according to their requirements, which includes HR Solutions and Payroll management. These include:
- Simple: $40/month (plus $6/month/person)
- Plus: $60/month (plus $9/month/person)
- Premium: $135/month (plus $16.50/month/person)
- Contractor (discount base price of $0/month for 6 months, plus $6/contractor/month)
Disclaimer: The pricing is subject to change.
Gusto HR Integrations
The software can be integrated with various third-party apps and systems, including:
How Does Gusto HR Software Work?
Log in to your account using your credentials and start using Gusto features by following the given steps:
- Familiarize yourself with the dashboard to access payroll, benefits, and HR tools
- Navigate to the payroll section to process payroll. Enter employee hours, review deductions and taxes, and approve the payroll
- Set up and manage employee benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and more
- Use the onboarding tools to add new employees, send offer letters, and complete necessary documentation
- Utilize Gusto’s compliance tools to ensure adherence to labor laws and tax regulations
- Generate detailed reports for payroll, benefits, and compliance monitoring
Which Industries is Gusto HR Software Perfect For?
Gusto payroll software can be used for small and mid-sized companies operating in various industries and sectors, including:
- Construction
- Healthcare
- Manufacturing
- Restaurants
- Hospitality
- Dentists
- Retail
Is Gusto HR Right For You?
Gusto software has garnered awards and is trusted by numerous popular clients, including small businesses and startups across various industries.
Its scalable solutions and add-ons, such as time tracking and employee benefits management, solve critical pain points like payroll errors and compliance risks. The platform's security measures include data encryption, regular security audits, and compliance with industry standards like SOC 2, ensuring your sensitive information is well-protected.
The software is known for its user-friendly interface and exceptional customer support, which includes access to certified HR professionals in higher-tier plans.
This ensures that you can get expert advice whenever needed, helping you navigate complex HR issues more effectively. Whether you are a small business looking to simplify payroll or a growing company needing comprehensive HR management, Gusto offers the flexibility and features to meet your needs.
Gusto HR Software Features
Gusto payroll facilitates the management of health insurance, retirement plans, and other employee benefits, providing a comprehensive benefits administration solution. It partners with leading insurance carriers to offer various benefits options, making it easier for businesses to attract and retain top talent.
It offers robust HR tools for employee onboarding, performance reviews, and compliance management. The onboarding feature allows new hires to complete paperwork electronically, streamlining the hiring process. Performance review tools help managers set goals, provide feedback, and track employee progress, fostering a productive work environment.
The software integrates time tracking with payroll, ensuring accurate wage calculations based on logged hours. Employees can clock in and out using various devices, and the system automatically syncs with payroll to eliminate manual data entry.
Gusto helps businesses comply with labor and tax laws and regulations through automated alerts and updates. It tracks changes in employment laws and provides guidance to ensure compliance, helping businesses avoid penalties. The platform also offers tools for securely and efficiently managing and storing important documents, such as I-9s and W-4s.
It provides detailed payroll, benefits, and compliance reports, aiding financial planning and decision-making. Users can customize reports to meet specific business needs, gaining insights into workforce costs and trends. These reports are crucial for audits, budgeting, and strategic planning, giving businesses a comprehensive view of their HR operations.
