Gusto Promo Code: 6 months free Simple

Deal Highlights

What is Gusto?

Gusto is a cloud payroll and HR platform that handles payroll processing, tax filing, benefits administration, and HR tools for US small businesses and startups. With automated payroll runs, full-service tax filing in all 50 states, and access to health insurance, 401(k), and workers compensation. Gusto provides the HR infrastructure that startups need from their first hire.

For startup founders, Gusto replaces the accountant, benefits broker, and HR consultant with one platform. Run payroll in minutes, offer competitive benefits, stay compliant with employment laws, and onboard new hires professionally without hiring an HR person.

Key Features for Startups

Full-service payroll processes paychecks with automatic calculation of federal, state, and local taxes, deductions, and garnishments. Direct deposit lands in employee accounts in 2-4 days (or next-day with Gusto Plus). Gusto files all tax forms, quarterly 941s, annual W-2s, state unemployment, and new hire reports, automatically.

Benefits administration provides access to health insurance (medical, dental, vision), 401(k) retirement plans, HSA/FSA accounts, commuter benefits, and workers compensation. Gusto markets benefits plans and helps you select options that fit your budget.

Hiring and onboarding creates offer letters, runs background checks, collects tax forms (W-4, I-9), and guides new hires through self-service onboarding. Employees set up direct deposit, choose benefits, and complete paperwork before their first day.

Time tracking integrates with payroll, employees clock in/out, managers approve timesheets, and hours flow directly into payroll calculation. No manual timesheet entry or separate time tracking tool.

Employee self-service portal lets employees view pay stubs, download tax forms, update personal information, manage benefits, and request time off, reducing HR questions that would otherwise go to the founder.

Contractor payments handle 1099 contractors alongside W-2 employees. Pay contractors via direct deposit, track payments, and generate year-end 1099 forms automatically.

Who Should Use Gusto?

US startups with 1-100 employees that need payroll and benefits. Founders who are currently doing payroll manually or using a basic tool. Companies that want to offer health insurance and 401(k) to attract talent. Any US small business that wants HR on autopilot.

Gusto vs ADP

ADP has deeper payroll expertise and handles more complex scenarios (multi-state, large teams, garnishments). Gusto has a modern interface and better experience for small teams. ADP for companies growing past 50 employees or with complex payroll needs. Gusto for startups under 50 wanting simplicity.

Gusto vs Rippling

Rippling combines HR, IT, and finance, managing payroll alongside device provisioning, app access, and expense management. Gusto focuses on HR and payroll with a simpler experience. Rippling for unified HR+IT management. Gusto for focused HR and payroll.

Gusto vs Justworks

Justworks is a PEO (Professional Employer Organization) that co-employs your workers for access to large-company benefits rates. Gusto is a payroll platform where you remain the employer of record. Justworks for startups wanting PEO benefits access. Gusto for companies wanting more control at lower cost.

How to Claim This Deal

1. Sign up through SaaSOffers
2. Add your employees and set up direct deposit
3. Configure benefits, health insurance, 401(k), etc.
4. Run your first payroll in minutes

Pricing Overview

Simple at $40/month + $6/person for basic payroll and onboarding. Plus at $60/month + $9/person adds time tracking, next-day direct deposit, and PTO management. Premium at $80/month + $12/person adds performance reviews, HR resource center, and dedicated support.

Gusto Alternatives

Looking for Gusto alternatives? While Gusto is a strong choice for hr & payroll, it is not always the right fit for every team. Compare Gusto against the top alternatives in our category. Each with verified startup deals and credits. See all Gusto alternatives →

Many startups end up using a combination of tools, and there are no restrictions on claiming multiple deals through SaaSOffers. Whether you need a cheaper option, different features, or a better startup deal, there is an alternative worth considering.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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