8 Best PEO Companies of 2023 (Service Providers Compared)

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best PEO services

Top PEO firms provide HR and payroll services with solid support for managing regulatory compliance, payroll taxes, and work legislation. A PEO can be an excellent solution for small businesses that lack in-house expertise.

PEO Services should also offer access to various advantages at attractive prices. This guide reviews the 8 best PEO companies for small and growing businesses. These PEO services are compared based on the quality of their offerings, features, and price.

What is a professional employer organization?

The Professional Employers Organization, or PEO, is an HR service based on co-employment models. This means that your employees will be on PEO books but will remain under the management.

PEOs control employee benefits management and regulatory compliance for their clients. When choosing a company, make sure the organization can carry out the HR functions you require while also scaling to the size of your business.

In addition, you need to get the best PEO with a good reputation because it integrates well within the corporate structure.

Why do Companies use PEO?

Convenience

Professional employer organizations make things more convenient. Since they work on a co-employment model, PEO companies can take control of your business’s payroll, tax administration, compliance management, employee benefits, recruiting, and often come with built-in HR solutions.  

PEO services can take a lot of work off your hands, giving you room to focus on other activities. 

Moreover, given that PEO companies have many co-employed workers, they can often negotiate better rates with benefits and insurance providers. This allows companies to save a little more money in the long run.

In other words, PEOs can save businesses plenty of money and time.

Benefits

PEO companies offer employee benefits plans that you might not be reachable otherwise, like life or disability insurance, commuter benefits, healthcare plans, worksite benefits, mental health support, etc. This can be especially handy for small business owners.

Again, this comes down to the fact that PEO companies have many co-employed workers under their wing.

Moreover, PEO services handle benefits administration. They take care of employee enrolling and COBRA administration. They also negotiate with benefits providers and provide legal notices. 

Compliance and Lawsuits

PEOs help you remain compliant with the latest laws and regulations. Most PEO companies have compliance experts responsible for monitoring business activities and ensuring you do not break any compliance laws.  

As a bonus, PEOs can lend you a hand in case of any lawsuits. They share liability with specific employment-related claims, like employee overtime or wrongful terminations.

That said, PEO companies are obligated to step in and help settle any lawsuits before they get blown out of proportion. 

Recruiting

PEO services will also handle parts of the recruiting process. They can train hiring managers to find competent candidates and give them tips on making the job offer more attractive. For instance, a PEO company can offer suggestions on attractive yet affordable salaries, how to create an intriguing job description, etc.

Many PEO companies will broaden your reach to potential candidates via job boards or other networking channels. Not to mention that PEO companies offer plenty of training materials to help employees hone their skills.

Retirement plans

PEO services will also handle retirement plans. You can give employees access to 401(k) retirement savings programs, which will likely improve employee retention. Moreover, PEOs will handle 401(k) compliance testing, distribution processing, and other administrating or regulatory tasks.

Workers’ compensation

Lastly, there’s workers’ compensation insurance. Since PEO providers are co-employers, businesses can access their employees’ compensation insurance coverage. PEOs will also handle all the paperwork, certifications, and compliance activities related to these workers’ compensation programs.

The 7 Best PEO Service Providers

Insperity

insperity PEO company

Insperity has been around for over 35 years, making it one of the most experienced companies operating in this industry. 

This full-service PEO solution works with companies of all sizes, meaning that Insperity is an excellent choice in terms of flexibility and scalability. Not to mention that the platform’s pricing plans are fully customizable. 

In addition, businesses can pick individual solutions rather than use Insperity’s full suite of services. Companies can opt for separate recruiting or insurance services, HR administration, consulting, payroll administration, and 401(k) plans. 

Another aspect that makes Insperity stand out is that it provides a massive library of training resources, including eBooks, webinars, podcasts, and more. 

Insperity | Leading PEO Provider
4.5

Insperity is a professional employer organization (PEO) that provides comprehensive human resources and business solutions to small and medium-sized businesses. With over 30 years of experience, Insperity offers a range of services including payroll processing, employee benefits administration, risk management, and compliance support. The company's mission is to help businesses run better, grow faster, and make more money by providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed. Insperity's team of experts works closely with clients to understand their unique needs and develop customized solutions that meet their specific goals. With a focus on delivering exceptional customer service and innovative solutions, Insperity has become a trusted partner for thousands of businesses across the United States.

Pros:
  • Leading PEO solutions: Insperity offers a wide range of HR solutions, including payroll processing, benefits administration, employee training, and compliance management.
  • Expertise and experience: With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Insperity has a team of HR experts who can provide guidance and support to businesses of all sizes.
  • Customized solutions: Insperity works closely with each client to understand their unique needs and tailor their services accordingly.
  • Technology-driven solutions: Insperity uses advanced technology to streamline HR processes and improve efficiency.
  • Cost-effective: By outsourcing HR functions to Insperity, businesses can save money on staffing and administrative costs.
  • Risk management: Insperity helps businesses stay compliant with federal and state regulations, reducing the risk of legal issues and penalties.
  • Employee engagement: Insperity offers programs and services to help businesses improve employee engagement and retention.

Insperity Service Offerings

 

insperity PEO service offerings
  • Recruiting, insurance, and retirement services
  • Benefits and HR administration 
  • HR compliance assistance
  • Performance management
  • Employee onboarding  
  • Payroll administration
  • Applicant tracking 
  • HR support  

Insperity Pricing

Since Insperity’s pricing is highly customizable, you’ll need to contact its representatives to get a quote. 

Get a quote from Insperity here.

Insperity Pros

  • Generous library of online training resources
  • Excellent customer support 
  • Easy to set up and use 
  • Highly versatile 

Insperity Cons

  • It requires at least five employees
  • Pricing is not transparent  

Insperity is the best overall

Insperity’s pricing is highly flexible, while the platform is easy to use, provides outstanding customer support, and is suitable for any type of business, whether large or small. 

Besides, Insperity’s resource center offers valuable insights on how to improve your HR workflow.  

In other words, Insperity nails it on multiple fronts, making it the best overall solution in the PEO industry available right now. 

Justworks 

justworks PEO service provider

Justworks caters to small and medium-sized businesses. Its pricing plans are transparent and relatively affordable. 

Moreover, Justworks is easy to use, has a simple setup process, and offers plenty of functionalities considering its price. Justworks handles payroll, compliance, benefits, and more. It also includes basic HR tools, like policy setting and employee onboarding. 

However, the platform shines through its high-quality benefits package. The PEO provider gives small businesses access to key benefits that would have otherwise been accessible only by large companies or corporations. 

Some examples include on-demand primary care services, mental health, vision, dental insurance, gym memberships, etc.

Another noteworthy aspect of Justworks is that it offers an employee access portal so team members could track payroll documents and get onboarded to your company. 

Also, due to its ease of use, you do not need to rely on in-house HR professionals to handle your account. 

Best for PEO Service
Justworks | Payroll, Benefits, HR Software, and Compliance
4.5

Justworks is a cloud-based platform that provides businesses with a comprehensive suite of HR, payroll, benefits, and compliance solutions. It streamlines the administrative tasks associated with managing a workforce, allowing companies to focus on their core business operations. Justworks offers a range of benefits, including health insurance, 401(k) plans, commuter benefits, and more, all of which can be customized to meet the needs of individual employees. The platform also provides access to a network of certified HR professionals who can offer guidance and support on a range of HR-related issues. With Justworks, businesses can simplify their HR and payroll processes, reduce administrative overhead, and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations.

Pros:
  • Streamlined HR and payroll processes: Justworks offers a comprehensive HR and payroll platform that simplifies the process of managing employee benefits, payroll, and compliance.
  • Affordable pricing: Justworks offers competitive pricing that is affordable for small and medium-sized businesses.
  • Comprehensive benefits: Justworks offers a wide range of benefits, including health insurance, 401(k) plans, commuter benefits, and more.
  • Easy-to-use platform: Justworks' platform is user-friendly and easy to navigate, making it simple for employers and employees to manage their HR and payroll needs.
  • Compliance support: Justworks provides compliance support to ensure that businesses are following all relevant laws and regulations.
  • Access to experts: Justworks offers access to HR and compliance experts who can provide guidance and support on a range of issues.
  • Customizable plans: Justworks offers customizable plans that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of each business.

Justworks Service Offerings

Justworks PEO service offerings
  • Compliance management and support
  • Payroll and tax management 
  • Employee benefits administration 
  • Full-service support
  • Access to HR tools 

Justworks Pricing

Justworks pricing

Justworks cover two pricing plans: 

  • Basic – $59/employee/month 
  • Plus – $99/employee/month 

In terms of benefits, the Basic plan offers workers’ compensation, life and disability insurance, 401(k) plans, wellness perks, and gym memberships. The Plus plan additionally includes medical, dental, and vision insurance and HSA/FSA accounts. 

Check Justworks pricing here at its official website.

Justworks Pros

  • Excellent benefits coverage
  • 24/7 customer support 
  • Easy to use and set up 
  • Transparent pricing  

Justworks Cons

  • Might not be suitable for large companies
  • Limited customization 

Justworks is the best for Employees’ Benefits

Justworks has a wide variety of benefits plans from the top providers at an affordable price. This factor can seal the deal for SMBs looking to improve the employee experience.  

TriNet 

Trinet PEO service provider

TriNet specifically caters to small and medium-sized businesses. The platform is easy to use, covers flexible pricing plans, and provides top-notch customer service.  

Unlike other PEO companies, Trinet also offers industry-specific solutions. For instance, Trinet can handle the specific needs of companies in industries like education, consulting, manufacturing, marketing, and more.  

The cherry on top, Trinet offers consulting and HR management teams specialized in your industry. That said, business owners can expect to receive the best customer service possible, regardless of the industry they’re operating in. 

Another factor that makes this platform appealing to small businesses is that Trinet charges a flat rate per employee per month. No hidden costs are involved, ensuring that pricing remains predictable and fair based on the number of employees you have. 

Trinet also has strong negotiating power, meaning that you can offer employees excellent benefits at a reasonable price.

Trinet | Comprehensive HR Solutions
4.5

Trinet is a leading provider of comprehensive HR solutions for small and medium-sized businesses. The company offers a range of services, including payroll processing, benefits administration, compliance management, and employee training and development. Trinet's cloud-based platform allows businesses to manage their HR functions from anywhere, at any time, and its team of experts provides personalized support to help businesses navigate complex HR issues. With over 30 years of experience, Trinet has established itself as a trusted partner for businesses looking to streamline their HR operations and focus on their core business objectives.

Pros:
  • Comprehensive HR solutions: Trinet offers a wide range of HR solutions, including payroll processing, benefits administration, compliance management, and employee onboarding, which can help businesses streamline their HR processes.
  • Expertise and experience: Trinet has been in the HR industry for over 30 years and has a team of experienced professionals who can provide expert guidance and support to businesses.
  • Scalability: Trinet's HR solutions are scalable, which means that they can be customized to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes, from small startups to large enterprises.
  • Compliance management: Trinet helps businesses stay compliant with federal and state regulations, which can help them avoid costly fines and legal issues.
  • Employee benefits: Trinet offers a wide range of employee benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and wellness programs, which can help businesses attract and retain top talent.
  • Technology-driven solutions: Trinet uses advanced technology

TriNet Service Offerings

Trinet PEO services
  • Employee training and development
  • Risk and compliance management 
  • Payroll and tax management 
  • Retirement and 401(k) plans
  • Benefits administration 
  • HR Administration  

TriNet Pricing

You’ll need to contact Trinet to get a pricing quote.  

Get a quote from TriNet at its official website here.

TriNet Pros

  • Access to documentation in the HR industry 
  • Industry-specific support 
  • ESAC and IRS certified
  • Easy to use and set up

TriNet Cons 

  • Pricing is not transparent 
  • Pricing comes in bundles 

TriNet is the best for Industry-specific solutions

Overall, Trinet is the best platform for industry-specific businesses among all the PEO service providers in this list. The customer service is exceptional, and you have access to professionals specialized in your industry. 

Besides that, the platform is easy to use and offers all the features you could expect from a full-service PEO solution.  

Moreover, you have access to the platform’s employee training and development system. This is Trinet’s built-in learning management system where employees can hone in or gain skills relevant to your company. 

ADP TotalSource 

adp totalsource PEO company

Available in over 140 countries, ADP Totalsource is one of the biggest PEO companies to date. The platform is brilliant in terms of customizability and flexibility. ADP Totalsource integrates seamlessly with accounting software like Quickbooks and other recruiting, learning, collaboration, and time tracking tools. 

However, ADP stands out because the platform provides the best customer service in the industry. The platform provides dedicated support agents and HR consultants. This makes the platform a good choice for start-ups with little to no HR expertise. 

Customer support is available 24/7 through live chat, email, or phone.

ADP Payroll
4.0

ADP Payroll is designed to manage and process payroll for businesses of all sizes. The input for this system includes employee information such as hours worked, salary, and tax information. The system then calculates and processes payroll, generating various outputs such as paychecks, direct deposits, and tax forms. ADP Payroll also provides reporting and analytics tools to help businesses track and analyze payroll data. Overall, ADP Payroll streamlines the payroll process, ensuring accuracy and compliance with regulations.

Pros:
  • Time-saving: ADP Payroll automates the payroll process, saving time and reducing the risk of errors.
  • Compliance: ADP Payroll ensures compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations, reducing the risk of penalties and fines.
  • Accuracy: ADP Payroll calculates taxes, deductions, and other payroll-related expenses accurately, reducing the risk of errors and ensuring employees are paid correctly.
  • Employee self-service: ADP Payroll provides employees with self-service options, allowing them to view their pay stubs, update their personal information, and access other payroll-related information.
  • Reporting: ADP Payroll provides detailed reports on payroll expenses, taxes, and other payroll-related data, allowing businesses to make informed decisions.

ADP TotalSource Service Offerings

ADP totalsource service solutions
  • Workforce and talent management
  • Payroll and tax management 
  • Employee benefits administration 
  • Compliance services 
  • HR support 

ADP TOTALSOURCE PRICING 

ADP Totalsource’s pricing is not disclosed. You’ll need to get in touch with the sales team to get a quote. 

Get a quote from ADP Totalsource from its official site here.

ADP TotalSource Pros

  • Access to dedicated HR support
  • Extensive integration capabilities
  • Access to advanced HR tools
  • Brilliant customer support 
  • Self-service payroll  

ADP TotalSource Cons

  • Most integrations are paid add-ons
  • Pricing is not transparent  

ADP TotalSource is the best for customer support

ADP TotalSource is highly flexible and offers great customer support. Moreover, the platform gives access to a dedicated HR specialist, safety consultants, benefits specialists, payroll advisors, investigation teams, and more, making it the industry leader in PEO customer support.

In other words, start-ups can receive all the guidance necessary and clarify any potential issues whenever they need it. Besides, ADP’s team can handle all the taxes for you, sparing you from an extra headache. 

Rippling PEO

Rippling PEO service company

Rippling is a cloud-based HR and PEO solution split into multiple modules. The platform offers modular IT, benefits, payroll, and HR solutions that can be mixed and matched. 

Rippling is a highly flexible PEO solution suitable for large companies that use multiple software solutions, as Rippling allows you to link the platform with your existing software.  

Consequently, you can easily assign software licenses and computers to employees. This makes the onboarding and employee process much easier, as you can easily add or remove to the software.  

Regarding PEO, Rippling includes all the features you could expect from a platform of this kind.  

Powerful Automation
Rippling | Workforce Management Platform
4.5

Rippling is a comprehensive human resources management software that streamlines HR processes and automates administrative tasks. It offers a range of features including employee onboarding, payroll management, benefits administration, time and attendance tracking, performance management, and compliance management. With Rippling, businesses can easily manage their workforce, track employee data, and ensure compliance with labor laws and regulations. The software is user-friendly and customizable, allowing businesses to tailor it to their specific needs. Overall, Rippling is a powerful tool that simplifies HR management and helps businesses save time and resources.

Pros:
  • Streamlined HR processes: Rippling offers a comprehensive HR platform that automates many HR processes, including onboarding, payroll, benefits administration, and compliance.
  • Easy-to-use interface: Rippling has a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate, even for non-technical users.
  • Integrated payroll: Rippling includes a payroll module that is fully integrated with other HR functions.
  • Customizable workflows: Rippling allows HR teams to create custom workflows for different HR processes, such as onboarding or performance management. This can help to ensure that processes are tailored to the specific needs of the organization.
  • Compliance support: Rippling includes compliance support for a range of HR regulations, including tax and labor laws.
  • Employee self-service: Rippling includes an employee self-service portal that allows employees to access their HR information, such as pay stubs and benefits information.

Ripping PEO Service Offerings

  • Legal compliance and risk management 
  • Payroll and tax management 
  • Learning management
  • Employee benefits administration
  • Talent management 
  • HR services  

Ripping Pricing

Rippling starts at $8/month/user. For more information, you’ll need to contact the sales team to get a custom quote based on your needs.  

Learn more about Rippling’s pricing from its official website here.

Rippling Pros

  • PEO on/off button to switch between PEO and HR features
  • Extensive integration capabilities
  • Intuitive interface
  • Highly flexible  

Rippling Cons

  • It might get expensive as you add more modules
  • Limited customer support 

Rippling is the best for large businesses

Due to Rippling’s multiple modules and integrations with over 500 applications, the possibilities with this platform are practically endless. This makes Rippling suitable for large companies looking to manage their workforce easily and handle all their HR tasks effortlessly.  

Meanwhile, the IT module makes onboarding and terminating employees in large volumes a breeze. 

Paychex 

Paychex PEO service

Although Paychex is widely known for its payroll and HR services, it also offers a PEO solution. This makes it a good option for growing companies that need something more than a PEO service provider.  

Paychex PEO offers solid HR and payroll automation tools besides its PEO service. The best part is that you can select only the services you need first and gradually add more as your business grows. 

Moreover, Paychex provides dedicated HR, benefits, and payroll specialists, as well as relationship managers, to offer personalized guidance and ensure that you’ll meet your business goals. 

Best for Startups
Paychex: Payroll & HR Solutions
4.0

Paychex is a comprehensive payroll and human resource management solution that helps businesses of all sizes streamline their payroll processes and manage their workforce more efficiently. With Paychex, businesses can easily calculate and process employee paychecks, manage employee benefits and taxes, and stay compliant with federal and state regulations. The platform also offers a range of HR tools, including time and attendance tracking, employee onboarding, and performance management. Paychex is designed to be user-friendly and customizable, allowing businesses to tailor the platform to their specific needs and preferences. Overall, Paychex is a powerful tool for startups looking to simplify their payroll and HR processes and improve their overall efficiency.

Pros:
  • Streamlined payroll processing: Paychex offers a comprehensive suite of payroll services that can help businesses streamline their payroll processing, saving time and reducing errors.
  • Compliance support: Paychex stays up-to-date with the latest tax laws and regulations, helping businesses stay compliant and avoid costly penalties.
  • Employee self-service: Paychex offers an employee self-service portal that allows employees to access their pay stubs, W-2s, and other important information online, reducing the administrative burden on HR staff.
  • Customizable reporting: Paychex offers customizable reporting options, allowing businesses to generate reports that meet their specific needs and requirements.
  • Affordable pricing: Paychex offers a range of pricing options, making it accessible to businesses of all sizes and budgets.
  • Integration with other systems: Paychex can integrate with other systems, such as accounting software and time and attendance systems.

Paychex Service Offerings

paychex service offerings
  • Risk management and regulatory compliance 
  • Recruiting and onboarding 
  • Employee benefits administration
  • Payroll processing
  • HR support  

Paychex Pricing

You’ll need to contact their sales representatives to get a pricing quote.

Get a quote from Paychex here from its official website.

Paychex Pros

  • Comprehensive resource center
  • Dedicated HR specialists 
  • ESAC and IRS certified 
  • Scalable      

Paychex Cons

  • Pricing can add up quickly as you add more features 
  • Pricing is not transparent  

Paychex is the best for scaling businesses 

Overall, Paychex PEO is the best option for companies that expect significant growth in the future. 

The platform allows you to pick and choose between the service you need and add more over time. That said, Paychex ensures that you only pay for what you use, offering excellent value for money.  

Moreover, the platform offers HR outsourcing services. This can come in handy if you need to handle complex HR tasks but lack the team to do so.  

Lastly, the platform provides solid payroll services since Paychex is also an all-in-one HR solution.  

Oyster

Oyster PEO Services

Oyster is a relatively new PEO company that specializes in global payroll services and helps companies hire and onboard employees across 180 countries. Since their team is spread all over the globe, they certainly prove their experience in hiring and managing foreign workers.

Oyster gives you access to an intuitive HR platform that allows you to generate reports and calculate employment costs. Additionally, you can manage all of your invoices and pay team members from a single place.

Other than that, Oyster offers an expense reimbursement tool and covers health benefits that are available across 180 countries.

Global HR Software | Hire Anywhere, Thrive Everywhere | Oyster

Oyster HR is a comprehensive human resources (HR) platform designed to streamline and simplify HR operations for businesses of all sizes. It offers a wide range of features and tools to help organizations manage their HR processes effectively. With Oyster HR, businesses can automate tasks such as employee onboarding, time tracking, leave management, performance reviews, and more. The platform also provides robust reporting and analytics capabilities to gain insights into workforce data and make data-driven decisions. Oyster HR aims to empower businesses to optimize their HR workflows, enhance employee engagement, and ensure compliance with HR regulations.

Oyster Service Offerings

Oyster PEO Services Product Offerings
  • Global employment
  • Multi-currency payrolls
  • Contractor management
  • Localized benefits
  • Self-serve HR tools

Oyster Pricing

Oyster PEO Services Pricing

Oyster offers three pricing plans:

  • Lite: from $29/contractor/month
  • Business: from $399/employee/month
  • Enterprise: upon request

The Lite plan includes HR tools, invoice and expense management, localized pay in 120+ countries, and contractor hiring in 180+ countries. The Business plan additionally includes PTO management, privacy, legal, and tax compliance, and an end-to-end payroll system.

Lastly, the Enterprise plan includes a dedicated hiring success team and custom global compliance support.

Oyster Pros

  • Helps you reach a global talent pool
  • Facilitates remote work
  • Accessible pricing

Oyster Cons

  • Health insurance comes at an extra cost for all pricing plans
  • The employee self-service tool lacks the Request Time Off function

Oyster is The Best For Hiring Employees Globally

Overall, Oyster is perfect for hiring a team of workers spread across multiple parts of the world. The platform allows you to easily onboard new employees from within a single place and easily handle payroll processing in multiple currencies.

Meanwhile, Oyster’s experts will give you the guidance necessary to ensure you remain compliant with tax or benefits requirements in different regions.

Remote.com

remote.com EOR service

Remote.com is an HR solution that specializes in helping companies handle all their HR needs regardless of location. The platform offers international payroll, tax, and compliance management services to any business size. 

Furthermore, you can find benefits packages for specific countries. Remote.com benefits packages include health, vision, dental, disability, life insurance, mental health support, and 401(k) plans. 

Most importantly, Remote.com’s Employer of Record (EOR) services are available. This allows you to hire people overseas legally without having to set up a local entity. 

On top of that, Remote.com’s EOR handles stock options, payroll, benefits, local compliance, and taxes for you. In other words, this feature can be a lifesaver. 

You can hire and pay foreign employees quickly, and you won’t need to scratch your head trying to navigate through various local laws. 

Best for Global Talent Management
Global HR Solutions for Distributed Teams | Remote
4.5

Remote.com is a one-stop solution for businesses to hire and manage their remote workforce. It offers a range of features that enable companies to streamline their HR processes, including payroll, benefits administration, and compliance management globally. Whether you're a small startup or a large enterprise, Remote.com can help you streamline your operations and reduce costs.

Remote.com Service Offerings

remote.com service offerings
  • Global payroll processing and management 
  • Contractor management 
  • Employee benefits administration 
  • Employer of Record 
  • Consulting services 
  • Remote relocation 

Remote.com Pricing

remote.com pricing

Remote.com covers four pricing plans, depending on what type of service you want to opt for:

  • Contractor management – $29/contractor/month 
  • Employer of Record – from $299/employee/month 
  • Global Payroll – upon request 
  • Remote Enterprise – upon request  

The Remote Enterprise plan is customizable and includes dedicated customer support and free consultations with Remote.com’s legal and HR experts. It also provides benefits and payroll administration, customizable reports, and integration capabilities.  

Learn more about Remote.com’s pricing from its official website here.

Here we have a few promotion offers from Remote.com:

Remote.com Pros

  • Available in over 170 countries
  • Excellent EOR services 
  • Easy to use 

Remote.com Cons

Dedicated customer support only available in the Remote Enterprise plan 

Remore.com is the best for remote work

Remote.com’s EOR services make the platform worth all the money. It spares you the headache of setting up a local entity to hire foreign employees and allows you to effectively perform HR tasks. 

Additionally, the platform helps you remain on top of the labor regulation and local tax employment laws that vary from country to country.

How to Choose a PEO Company? 

Although each PEO service provider mentioned in this list is best for specific use cases, like remote work or benefits administration, there are more factors to consider when picking the right PEO company for your business. 

Let’s discuss this in further detail. 

Examine Your Business Needs 

Most PEO service providers offer similar services, like compliance and risk management, payroll and benefits administration, and HR management. 

However, not every PEO goes into the same level of depth when offering these services. Some companies may only provide basic payroll processing, while others may be more advanced.  

That’s why it’s important to evaluate how your business is doing in these areas before choosing a PEO service. This will help you spot your strengths and weaknesses and identify the PEO company that best fulfills your needs. 

That said, let’s look deeper into each area of service.  

Hr Management

First, take a look at your company’s HR department. HR services are one of the main reasons businesses choose to work with PEO companies—they take most HR administrative tasks off the clients’ hands and decrease employer liabilities. But, each PEO has a different approach to HR.  

On the one hand, some companies follow a self-service model, where they offer clients all the tools necessary to handle the issues themselves. This is suitable for businesses with an HR department that still needs to streamline their workflow. 

On the other hand, there are also PEO companies that are directly involved in the client’s HR activities. 

They assign the client a dedicated HR manager who will take care of everything that is HR-related. This is an excellent option for businesses that do not have an in-house HR department. 

Then, some PEOs go for a hybrid approach. They offer clients tools to handle HR activities by themselves but also provide on-demand consultation or help from a manager. 

Regardless, you’ll need someone to act as the middleman between your company and the PEO service provider. The amount of time this middleman would dedicate to communicating with the PEO provider depends on how hands-on or hand-off the provider is with HR management. 

Payroll Processing

You should test the payroll software before picking a PEO provider. After all, you’ll be using these tools constantly. So making sure that the platform is easy to use, quick, and doesn’t require much training is crucial.

While you’re at it, check the PEO provider’s qualifications. Since you’ll hand over your business’s and employees’ banking information, the PEO provider must give clients a reason to trust them. We’ll go into more detail about certification further down the article.

Also, if you have employees in foreign countries, make sure the PEO provider facilitates international payments. Otherwise, you may have trouble maintaining compliance with the country’s regulations. 

Employee Benefits

Employee benefits are another major advantage of PEOs. Given that the PEO provider acts as your employer, you’ll get access to all its employee benefits plans. 

This can save you plenty of time and money you would otherwise spend on finding benefits plans on your own. Not to mention that start-ups and small business owners can get benefits plans that would not have been accessible due to their company size. 

Still, employee benefits packages vary among different PEO providers. That said, make sure to check the PEO service’s benefits offers and providers thoroughly. Then, identify which benefits package fits your employees the best. 

In terms of medical insurance, make sure the PEO service works with the provider who has medical networks within your area. Also, check whether the insurance plan is self-funded or fully insured. 

With self-funded plans, the employer must fund the insurance claims. In contrast, fully insured plans provide the benefits through a group insurance policy, while the insurer guarantees the claims’ payment. 

Risk Management and Employees’ Compensation

Ask the PEO of your choice about the risk management services they offer. Some services include workers’ compensation insurance claims training and management or safety inspections to maintain OSHA compliance. 

Also, make sure the PEO provider’s compensation insurance covers the industry you operate in. Some PEOs may favor white-collar workers over blue-collar ones and vice-versa. Choosing the PEO provider that caters more to your industry will likely lead to better rates and enhanced service or support. 

Check for Certifications 

Even though it’s not mandatory, picking a PEO with ESAC and IRS certification might be a better idea. That’s because certification ensures tax benefits and financial protection that non-certified PEOs do not have.

Moreover, a certified professional employer organization (CPEO) goes through a series of background checks to prove their ability to meet the client’s requirements. 

For instance, PEOs need to provide the following to obtain IRS certification:  

  • Background reports of the people responsible for employment tax payments 
  • Proof they remit employment taxes in a timely fashion 
  • An independent audit of their financial services 
  • Proof they have positive capital

As such, CPEOs offer a series of advantages over non-certified PEOs. 

More specifically, CPEOs are solely responsible for paying federal employment taxes. Also, CPEOs give clients the authority to claim tax credits. With non-certified PEOs, this is not the case. 

Lastly, certification eliminates the wage-based resets clients must pay whenever they leave or join a PEO during the year. 

In other words, clients are free to make changes without waiting until the following year. Consequently, you’ll avoid making double payments on taxes. Still, be aware that some certified PEOs require termination fees. 

On the other hand, PEOs certified by the ESAC demonstrate the ability to comply with regulatory requirements and operational standards, maintain ethical business conduct, and attest to their financial stability.  

Decide Between Full-Service and a La Carte PEO Services

Another factor you need to consider when evaluating your business’s needs is whether you’d like to use a full-service PEO solution or use only a few services the PEO offers. 

Sure, the choice may seem obvious at first. After all, a full-service PEO is the go-to if you don’t have an in-house HR department. In contrast, if you already have an HR team in place, but could use a little more help, then a la carte services would be the better option. 

But here’s the thing: You’ll need to think ahead of the curve. In other words, your HR needs will likely change over time. Although a full-service solution may be appealing at the moment, you might need to step down to a la carte services in the future. The same thing goes the other way around. 

You’ll need to look elsewhere if the PEO provider cannot facilitate that. This leads to extra headaches and wasted time. 

Also, keep in mind that some PEO services require yearly contracts. The cancellation fees can be high if you change your plan mid-contract. Picking a PEO service that offers month-to-month contracts is a better option. 

Furthermore, consider scalability. You may add more services to your plan as your business grows. Finding a PEO provider that allows you to do so easily is ideal. 

Lastly, identify how the PEO service of your choice stands out from the rest. Some PEOs offer excellent benefits packages, while others shine through their recruitment services. 

Choosing the PEO service that aligns with your company’s necessities will make all the difference in the long run. Again, start by evaluating your company’s needs first to find out where you shine and where there’s room for improvement. 

Consider Location

Location is crucial when picking a PEO company, especially if you have remote employees. 

Tax laws and regulations vary across different states and countries. In other words, you’ll need to choose the PEO service that’s already familiar with your region. Otherwise, you may encounter a few issues further down the road, like not accounting for the difference in tax percentages from other states. 

Moreover, check the PEO’s service insurance providers. Even if most insurance companies cover a whole country, others may focus only on specific regions. This factor is key for ensuring that each employee has insurance coverage, regardless of the location.  

Evaluate The PEO’s Technology 

A PEO service is not useful if it doesn’t offer the technology necessary to fulfill your needs. So evaluating the PEO’s tech and functionalities is not to be taken lightly. 

For instance, a PEO’s payroll system should allow you to run payroll in minutes. Moreover, it should generate quick payroll reports, track deductions, and manage payroll information. An employee self-service portal is also recommended. This allows employees to access and track documents, like pay stubs. 

Aside from that, a PEO should facilitate integration capabilities, customization options, time tracking, PTO request, team collaboration, and plenty of documentation. 

Also, evaluate the ease of use while you’re at it. Picking a PEO provider that offers difficult-to-use tools will likely lead to issues and cause you to lose time.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the difference between a PEO and a payroll company?

In short, a PEO offers various services including payroll, whereas a payroll company focuses on just that—payroll. 

Some other services a PEO company offers are the following: Risk and workers’ compensation management, Benefits administration, HR support, and Compliance assistance.

Moreover, when joining a PEO, the service provider becomes an employer of record. In other words, you’ll create a co-employment relationship between your company and the PEO service. As a result, the PEO will take on some of the risks involved in HR management, taxes, workers’ compensation, etc. 

In contrast, a payroll company will hold you responsible for all of your business’s HR activities. 
In terms of costs, PEOs require a contract for their services for a predetermined time. If you choose to end the contract before it expires, you’ll likely need to pay a termination fee. 

Payroll service providers do not require such contracts, making them a cheaper option at first glance. 

However, PEOs may save you more money in the long run. They eliminate the need for having an in-house HR team, help you avoid making costly mistakes, and more. 

What are the disadvantages of a PEO? 

First, most PEO providers do not offer transparent pricing. Pricing is subjective to your business and often negotiable. 

Sure, pricing quotes made specifically for your business may give the illusion that you’ll get better value for money. But in reality, you might never know what the fair price is. That said, figuring out whether the PEO is overpriced or offers a fair deal is difficult. 

Speaking of pricing, some PEOs offer their services in bundles, meaning that you may end up paying for services that you do not need.

Second, working with a PEO requires you to sign a contract for a predetermined period. If you wish to exit the partnership mid-contract, you’ll be subject to termination fees. 

Third, there’s control. Since you’ll have a co-employment relationship with your PEO, you’ll need to adhere to its guidelines and policies. This leads to restricted control over your HR activities and potentially dilutes your company culture. 

Who is the largest PEO in the US? 

ADP Totalsource is available in over 140 countries and has surpassed 500,000 worksite employees in 2018. Moreover, the company has seen a steady increase over the years, hitting an annual revenue of $16.498 billion this year, a 9.95% increase compared to last year. 

And with good reason, ADP Totalsource is well-known for its exceptional customer service and support. For one, customer support is available 24/7 through multiple communication channels. Furthermore, ADP assigns dedicated HR consultants and support agents ready to address your issues at any time. 

Other than that, ADP Totalsource is highly flexible. It integrates with various other third-party tools to help you streamline your workflow and make the most out of its services.

What is the best PEO for small businesses?

Trinet specifically caters to SMBs. The platform emphasizes ease of use, provides excellent customer service, and has flexible pricing. 

What’s noteworthy is that Trinet provides dedicated HR professional teams specializing in your niche. 

This ensures that businesses benefit from the best customer experience possible and consulting services that will help companies solve their issues. 

Furthermore, Trinet offers access to its built-in learning management system. This allows you to train your employees and help them acquire new skills important to your company, making the employee development process much easier.

That said, Trinet is an excellent option for small businesses that do not have prior experience with PEOs or lack the support of an in-house HR department. 

Who are the top PEOs? 

The top PEOs currently available are the following: 

Although each PEO provider has pros and cons, Insperity sits at the top of the list. For one, Insperity has been around for over three decades, making it one of the most experienced PEO services in the market. 

Moreover, the platform is suitable for businesses of all sizes, as Insperity is highly flexible and scalable. You can use its entire set of services or choose only a few. 

Aside from that, Insperity offers brilliant customer support and provides a vast library of resources like ebooks, webinars, podcasts, and more. 

Conclusion: Which is the Best PEO Company? 

Generally speaking, you can’t go wrong with Insperity

However, the best PEO company is the one that caters to your needs the most. That said, take some time to evaluate your business’s requirements to identify where you need help the most. 

This also helps you decide whether you need a full-service PEO solution or should opt for specific services. 

While you’re at it, account for your employee’s location. Some PEO insurance providers may not cover an entire country, so checking that is crucial for insuring all of your employees.

Furthermore, examine the PEO provider’s feature set and ease of use. A platform that takes a long time to get used to will do nothing but lose your time and increase the risk of costly mistakes in the future.

In terms of functionalities, the platform should include time tracking, PTO requests, quick payroll processing, payroll reports, team collaboration tools, and a resource library. 

Last but not least, check for certification. The PEO of your choice should be IRS and ESAC certified. This attests to the company’s ability to meet your requirements and pay taxes. 

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