Gusto review (2026): pricing, fees and who it's for
Online payroll that files your payroll taxes, with add-ons for benefits, time and HR.
Good fit if
Single-state teams that want published, month-to-month pricing
Pick something else if
You pay workers in several states on a tight budget, or need a Spanish app.
What we like
- Public pricing: Simple plan is $49/mo + $6 per person.
- Files federal, state and local payroll taxes plus W-2s and 1099s.
- Unlimited payroll runs; no extra fee for off-cycle payrolls.
- Month-to-month; contractors billed only in months you pay them.
Watch out for
- Simple covers one state; multi-state requires Plus at $80/mo + $12/person.
- New accounts start on 4-day deposit; next-day costs $15/mo + $3/person on Simple.
- Mobile app is English-only; phone support weekdays 6am-6pm MST.
Gusto pricing
| Plan | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Simple | $49/mo + $6/person | One state; tax filing; unlimited payroll runs |
| Solo | $49/mo + $6/person | For S corp owners paying themselves and contractors |
| Plus | $80/mo + $12/person | Multi-state, time tracking, unlimited next-day pay |
| Premium | $180/mo + $22/person | Dedicated advisor, HR guidance, same-day and instant pay |
Prices as published on Oct 4, 2026. Confirm on their site; promotions change often.
What payroll will cost you
| Payroll | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|
| OnPay | $67 | $804 |
| Gusto | $67 | $804 |
| Patriot Software | $52 | $624 |
| RUN Powered by ADP | Quote only | |
Cheapest full-service plan, list prices, before promotions. State registration and workers' comp are extra.
The details
| Base price | $49/mo (Simple) |
|---|---|
| Per person | $6/mo per person (Simple) |
| Contractors only | No separate plan since Oct 2026; $49/mo + $6/contractor on Simple |
| Files payroll taxes for you | Yes, all plans (federal, state, local) |
| Workers in several states | Plus and Premium only |
| Direct deposit speed | 4-day at start, 2-day after 15 days; next-day on Plus |
| Workers' comp | Pay-as-you-go via NEXT Insurance, from $14/mo |
| Benefits | Health, dental, vision (premiums only); 401(k), HSA/FSA |
| Time tracking | Included in Plus; $6/person add-on on Simple |
| HR tools | HR guidance and resources on Premium only |
| W-2s and 1099s | Included; filed for you |
| Setup fee | None (free account setup) |
| Free trial | None listed |
Before you sign up
You'll need
- EIN (federal employer ID number)
- Business bank account for payroll debits
- Each worker's address and pay rate
- State payroll tax account numbers, or the paid registration add-on
Do this first: You'll need your EIN, your state withholding and unemployment account numbers (or pay for registration), a business bank account, and workers' comp in most states.
What users say in public ratings
Seen on Oct 4, 2026. App store ratings mostly reflect the app; Trustpilot leans toward billing and support stories.
Gusto alternatives
- 7.7/10OnPaySmall teams across states wanting one flat price · From $49/mo Gusto vs OnPay
- 7.0/10Patriot SoftwareBudget-minded small teams paid in one state · From $17/mo Gusto vs Patriot Software
- 6.3/10RUN Powered by ADPOwners who want 24/7 phone help and room to grow · Price on request Gusto vs RUN Powered by ADP
Questions
How much does Gusto cost?
Simple: $49/mo + $6/person; Solo: $49/mo + $6/person; Plus: $80/mo + $12/person; Premium: $180/mo + $22/person.
Does Gusto have a free plan?
No free plan or free trial is published.
Does Gusto offer help in Spanish?
We couldn't confirm Spanish support. Ask them before you sign up.
What do I need to sign up for Gusto?
EIN (federal employer ID number); Business bank account for payroll debits; Each worker's address and pay rate; State payroll tax account numbers, or the paid registration add-on.
Is Gusto good for a new business?
It fits single-state teams that want published, month-to-month pricing. Pick something else if you pay workers in several states on a tight budget, or need a Spanish app.
What are the alternatives to Gusto?
OnPay (Small teams across states wanting one flat price); Patriot Software (Budget-minded small teams paid in one state); RUN Powered by ADP (Owners who want 24/7 phone help and room to grow).
Sources
- gusto.com/product/pricing
- gusto.com/product/pricing/solo
- support.gusto.com/article/999752211000000/Direct-deposit-payment-speeds-in-Gusto
- support.gusto.com/article/207607681100000/Gusto-mobile-app
- gusto.com/about/contact
- usagepricing.com/blueprint/activity/gusto-2026-09-21-october-plan-repackaging
- apps.apple.com/us/app/gusto-mobile/id1478804271
- play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.gusto.money
Checked Oct 4, 2026. Something out of date? Tell us. Our score is calculated from public facts; partners can't pay for a better one.