GS
Best for US-based startups and SMBs (1–100 employees) wanting transparent, stress-free domestic payroll & benefits
Gusto Review (2026)
automated US full-service payroll, automated 50-state tax filing, health insurance brokerage, and 401(k).
9.4
Exceptional
★★★★★
RankRibbon B2B Executive Verdict
Gusto is the gold standard for US small and mid-sized businesses up to 100 employees that want transparent pricing and automated 50-state payroll.
✓ Why Buyers Choose Gusto
- ✓ 100% transparent, published pricing with zero hidden fees for off-cycle bonus payroll runs or year-end W-2s
- ✓ AutoPilot feature runs payroll automatically on schedule for salaried teams
- ✓ native health, dental, vision, HSA/FSA, and 401(k) deductions synced directly into every paystub
- ✓ Employees retain lifetime access to their Gusto wallet for past W-2s even after leaving the company
✕ Limitations to Watch Out For
- ✕ Multi-state payroll requires upgrading from Simple ($40+$6) to Plus ($80+$12)
- ✕ International EOR is powered via partner integration rather than wholly-owned entities like Deel
- ✕ No native IT laptop/MDM management like Rippling
Detailed Performance & Feature Breakdown
Gusto is the gold standard for US small and mid-sized businesses up to 100 employees that want transparent pricing and automated 50-state payroll.
Pricing & Total Cost of Ownership
Zero charge to switch health insurance broker of record to Gusto. Multi-state state tax registration assistance is available if hiring in a new state for the first time.
Gusto Pricing & Plans Comparison
Simple
$46/mo
$40/mo base + $6/person • Single-state US payroll
- ✓ Unlimited single-state payroll runs
- ✓ Automated W-2 & 1099 tax filings
- ✓ Health insurance administration & employee portal
Plus
$92/mo
$80/mo base + $12/person • All 50 US states
- ✓ Full-service multi-state payroll
- ✓ Next-day direct deposit & PTO management
- ✓ Time tracking, project costing & performance reviews
Premium
$202/mo
$180/mo base + $22/person • Dedicated HR advisor
- ✓ Certified HR experts & compliance alerts
- ✓ R&D tax credit discounts & priority support
- ✓ Free migration & account manager