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Verdict: The best PEO software solution in 2023 is Horizons, with a 9.6/10 rating.
Horizons stands apart from competitors through genuine local expertise and competitive pricing.
The Best PEO Solutions
- Horizons – Best International PEO Software
- ADP TotalSource – Best for Flexibility in Benefits
- Rippling – Best Combined PEO and HRIS
- PrismHR – Best PEO Software for HR Partners
- Skuad – Best PEO Software for Tech Hiring
- Multiplier – Best for Payments Flexibility
- ExtensisHR – Best PEO Software for Add-On Services
- Remote – Best Direct EOR Software
- Oyster – Best EOR Software for Small Businesses
- Worklio – Best PEO Software for Enterprise
To compile this list of the top 10 best PEO software solutions, we chose an eclectic list of providers who are all strong performers in their category.
Most focus on international remote workers, some are relative newcomers to the field, and others are well-established national PEOs who have added software solutions and global services to their offerings.
Finally, two PEO companies, PrismaHR and Worklio, offer APIs aimed at enterprise service providers who wish to add PEO or HR software platforms to their service. In each case, the software reviewed could help reduce overall HR costs and improve the experience of outsourcing HR to a flexible PEO solution.
Review methodology of PEO software solutions
A PEO, or “Professional Employer Organization,” is a specialized HR company that becomes the co-employer of a workforce alongside a client company. The PEO handles payroll, employment taxes, benefits administration, and other HR matters in this role. The client company remains the “worksite employer” or “operational employer” and oversees employees daily.
First coming to prominence in the late 1960s (in their earlier incarnation as an ’employee leasing company’), PEOs originally carried out their tasks manually, but now this is generally done through some form of PEO software.
There are many different PEO software solutions available, and the best one for a particular business depends on its specific needs and the countries where it plans to hire. The key features we look at are:
- The user interface — is the PEO software intuitive and easy to use?
- What services are offered through the platform?
- What is the price?
- Does the platform meet high standards for security and compliance?
After thoroughly reviewing numerous PEO software providers—all cloud-based to ensure reliable use regardless of location—and poring over hundreds of PEO software reviews, we have compiled a list of the top 10 PEO software solutions for 2023.
What is the difference between PEO software and EOR software?
The terms ‘PEO’ and ‘EOR’ are used inconsistently within the HR industry. Some companies prefer the term ‘PEO,’ and others use the term ‘EOR,’ even if their services appear very similar. In general, however:
- A PEO company operates as a co-employer, overseeing employee payroll and benefits. The PEO may not always be the sole legal employer of a workforce
- An EOR, or ‘Employer of Record’ becomes the legal employer for a workforce
- A global PEO offers global co-employment services and often additional services such as contractor hire, recruitment, and HR consulting.
- A global EOR acts as the legal employer for professionals worldwide. Global employment companies often use the terms ‘global PEO’ and ‘global EOR’ interchangeably.
As the terms often mean the same or similar service provision, this top 10 review covers companies that market their software as ‘PEO software’ or a ‘PEO platform’ and companies that sell it as ‘EOR software’ or an ‘EOR platform.’
To read more about the difference between PEO and EOR solutions, check out PEO vs EOR — Key Differences and Full Comparison.
Overview: PEO Software Providers and their Best Features
| Provider | Best Feature |
| Horizons | Its standout feature is the ability to hire and pay employees in 185+ countries through a single platform, making it a superb choice for international PEO software needs. |
| ADP TotalSource | The flexibility in offering a wide choice of benefits packages from multiple large providers is its best feature, along with expert support on various HR issues. |
| Rippling | The customization and the ability to scale up HR outsourcing needs flexibility, which is ideal for companies with changing requirements. |
| PrismHR | Its primary strength is the all-in-one software solution for existing PEOs seeking to upgrade their services, with 20 years of experience in the business. |
| Squad | The focus on global PEO services for international teams, especially in software engineering and IT hiring, stands out as its best feature. |
| Multiplier | Its simplicity and flexibility in payment options, including cryptocurrency payments, make it ideal for managing global teams efficiently. |
| ExtensisHR | The’ Work Anywhere’ platform’s key strength is the extensive range of additional HR modules it offers, including upskilling, recruitment, and performance tracking. |
| Remote | Remote’s top feature is the flexibility of its plans, including the a la carte availability of employer of record, contractor management, benefits plans, and global payroll services. |
| Oyster | Its main advantages are its intuitive interface and support for smaller businesses and companies new to global hiring, including equity compensation options and industry-specific support. |
| Worklio | Its most significant attribute is its customizable interface and extensive API set, which make it ideal for business service providers wanting to add PEO and payroll processing to their offerings. |
BEST INTERNATIONAL PEO SOFTWARE
1. Horizons
Horizons (also known as ‘New Horizons Global Partners’) is an international PEO software solution providing compliant employee onboarding, payroll, and compliance in 185+ countries.
Key features
Key features of the Horizons platform include:
- Employee onboarding — hire employees anywhere in the world at the click of a button
- Employee data management — maintain an overview of employee personal and payment data at any time
- Simple payroll — pay employees in any location and multiple currencies with just one click.
All actions can be carried out easily from the intuitive client dashboard.
Pricing
Pricing starts at $299 per employee per month.
Pros
- International coverage — through one platform, Horizons enables client companies to hire and pay employees in 185+ countries.
- Easy benefits administration — with leave approvals and other benefits easily managed.
- HR and payroll reports, providing decision-makers with the information they need
- Flexible payment options, including easy one-off payments and bonuses.
Cons
Horizons does not currently have an on-platform payroll processing-only option for companies that do not need a PEO service. However, this capability is now being developed.
Our verdict
With a market-leading platform and accompanying app, Horizons is an excellent choice for companies needing an international PEO software solution. Through the Horizons platform, you can easily hire and pay employees in any country in the world.
Read our comprehensive review of Horizons in our 2023 Horizons global PEO review.
BEST FOR FLEXIBILITY IN EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
2. ADP TotalSource
ADP TotalSource is a PEO solution aimed at smaller companies, and ADP Workforce Now is the accompanying cloud software solution. As one of the world’s largest PEO and payroll companies, ADP offers a flexible array of benefits packages and a highly sophisticated PEO platform.
Key features
As one of the world’s largest PEOs, ADP also brings a powerful PEO software solution. ADP TotalSource is the company’s prime offering for small to mid-sized companies, with software services provided through the ADP Workforce Now technology suite. Key features include:
- Versions for multiple systems — Workforce Now is a cloud-based platform for Windows, Linux, Mac, iOS, and Android for managing the HR administration tools that come with the TotalSource package
- Integrations — it allows for streamlining and automating processes such as onboarding, real-time data insights and analysis, integration with other software systems, as well as enhanced security features
- An intuitive employee portal, allowing for time tracking, review of paystubs and benefits packages, viewing schedules, and requesting time off.
Pricing
Pricing is available by quote upon contacting ADP.
Pros
- Wide choice of benefits providers — you can work with multiple benefits packages in the ADP PEO solution, unlike other providers, which only allow businesses to work with one provider.
- Unified, user-friendly system for many HR tools
- Simple employee info updates
Cons
Pricing is not published on the ADP website, making it hard to compare ADP’s offerings without contacting the company.
Our Verdict
Unlike smaller PEOs, ADP can provide insurance and benefits packages from multiple large providers and expert support on various HR, benefits, tax, and workplace issues. These benefits alone may make ADP TotalSource the first choice for many companies. Pricing is only available by appointment, however, and the service may not be the most economical for every business’s needs.
To find our more, see our in-depth 2023 ADP TotalSource review. To read more about the cloud software ADP deploys in its HR solutions, read our 2023 review of ADP Workforce Now.
BEST COMBINED PEO AND HRIS
3. Rippling
Rippling is a tech-first PEO platform and Human Resource Information System (HRIS), which arguably provides the broadest range of HR add-on services on the planet. Rippling is an excellent choice for companies that seek to scale up their HR outsourcing needs on an as-needed basis.
Key features
Rippling offers a suite of features that can be purchased as individual services, or all together as one complete solution. It offers national and international payroll processing and tax filing, HR admin services, ACA and COBRA administration, device and corporate credit card management, global PEO services, and more.
Pricing
Prices start from $8 per employee, per month, with the full cost depending on the number of different PEO and HR services chosen.
Pros
- Flexible, customizable system
- Automated workflows — extensive integrations mean that you can easily trigger a data change across your entire business dataset from one app or service
- Extensive tools for remote teams
- Large library of add-ons.
Cons
As Rippling software is paid for on a per-module basis, the service can get costly when adding additional modules.
Our verdict
The customization offered by Rippling will be a perfect fit for companies that want to try out a range of services or are simply looking for a fully outsourced HR solution. For companies that already have an international remote workforce, Rippling can help consolidate processes and workflows, saving valuable time at the home office.
To learn more about Rippling check out our 2023 Rippling Review.
BEST PEO SOFTWARE FOR HR PARTNERS
4. PrismHR
PrismHR is a dedicated platform for PEOs, ASOs and other HR outsourcing providers. This is an excellent option for existing PEOs who lack their own in-house infrastructure and seek a well-regarded business partner.
Key features
PrismHR is a cloud-based software solution for PEOs and Administrative Services Organizations (ASOs). The system is well-designed, user-friendly, and provides HR administration, benefits enrollment, onboarding, payroll, financial and HR sporting, HR administration, time and attendance tracking, as well as an employee portal. It also includes ClientSpace, a CRM for PEOs and ASOs that organizes sales leads, helps automates the pricing of complex PEO packages, improves customer service response times, and tracks workers’ compensation and unemployment claims. Additionally, PrismHR helps their clients stay on top of changes in compliance and regulations, and reduce their own staffing costs with automated processes. PrismHR has 20 years of experience in the business, with over 80,000 organizations using its system.
Pricing
Pricing for PrismHR’s human resources software is a combination of a base cost by software module, with a PEPM (per employee per month) component. Specific prices are not listed on the site.
Pros
- All-in-one software solution for PEOs looking to upgrade their services
- Well-established company in the PEO space.
Cons
As a turnkey solution, PrismHR means less control or customization than developing software in-house.
Our verdict
For smaller, regional PEOs trying to compete with large national or global providers, PrismHR software will provide a powerful advantage. Though developing a new system in-house may be more flexible, it is too time and resource-consuming for smaller PEOs that want to stay focused on their regional or industry-specific market. PrismHR will allow these PEOs to continue to provide the local and insider knowledge that they already excel at, while also offering a software portal that can match those provided by national and international companies.
BEST PEO SOFTWARE FOR TECH HIRING
5. Skuad
Skuad PEO software is a global PEO software platform with a deep niche focus on software engineering and IT hiring. It is a top choice for businesses needing software to support their engineering hires.
Key features
Skuad focuses on global PEO services for international teams. Its PEO software solution helps employers stay compliant by providing international employment contracts, assisting with work permits, and processing payroll by local tax and benefits regulations. Skuad brings PEO and HR administration services together in one platform and allows payments in local currencies in over 160 countries.
Pricing
Employer of Record solutions start at $199 per employee per month, and contractor hire starts at $19 per contractor per month.
Pros
- Basic monthly pricing with add-ons for more services
- Free HR and legal consultation
- Customizable systems integration, payroll and benefits management, and reporting.
Cons
- Contractor processing requires a custom package
- No recruitment feature.
Our verdict
For startups who know what positions they need to fill and where to find them, Skuad can help them by simplifying onboarding and quickly setting up a global, compliant workforce. Due to its subject matter expertise, it is beneficial for those hiring in the tech space.
BEST FOR PAYMENT FLEXIBILITY
6. Multiplier
Multiplier is a top global PEO SaaS that is simple to use and offers excellent payment flexibility for global teams.
Key features
Multiplier is a simple, easy-to-use PEO software solution that focuses on international hiring. It provides a unified platform where employers can quickly review all employee and freelancer contracts, requests for leave, payments, and invoices. All employees and contractors can be paid with a single click-through invoice, even when using multiple currencies.
Pricing
Prices start at $300 per employee per month and $40 per contractor per month.
Pros
- Easy-to-use system
- Employees and contractors covered in 150+ countries
- Cryptocurrency payments and other flexible payment options are supported to help pay employees using their chosen method.
Cons
Multiplier does not currently appear to offer recruitment services, and some of the other HR features that some international PEO platforms provide are not available.
Our verdict
Multiplier stands out for its simplicity: Little training is needed for the system, which allows a small team at the home office to manage employees and contractors around the globe quickly and easily. For companies that are happy to do their own recruiting and want a system that will not put too much strain on the home office, Multiplier is a great choice.
Learn more about the unique features of Multiplier’s software solution in our 2023 Multiplier review.
BEST PEO SOFTWARE FOR ADD-ON SERVICES
7. ExtensisHR
ExtensisHR provides full-service PEO software, covering a range of additional HR modules that other PEO software fails to provide through the ‘Work Anywhere‘ platform. Founded in 1997 and with IRS-certified PEO status, Extensis HR is a long-trusted partner for PEO software.
Key features
ExtensisHR provides all of the standard PEO software services, such as payroll processing, support with compliance and tax filing, HR tools, and benefits administration, but with some useful additions through the ‘Work Anywhere’ platform.
Work Anywhere is a suite of cloud-based services including the:
- Performance Cloud for tracking and synchronizing goals and performance
- Knowledge Cloud to help train HR teams and teach updated compliance courses
- Recruiting Crowd for automated job posting and the HR cloud with computerized workflows for more seamless internal admin.
Pricing
ExtensisHR does not currently list its pricing on its website, but customized pricing is available by quote.
Pros
- PEO Premier — an advanced PEO package providing personalized HR advice with a dedicated account manager
- Extensive add-on HR modules — upskilling, recruitment, performance tracking, and other extensive HR services available
- An HRO solution for companies that do not need a complete PEO solution.
Cons
Currently, it only offers benefits via one insurance provider, lacking the flexibility of other options.
Our Verdict
ExtensisHR with Work Anywhere is an excellent system for companies that want a solution that goes beyond HR administration and will help improve their teams’ communication, productivity, and knowledge base. The Recruitment Cloud feature will save time spent on hunting for the right new employees, allowing businesses to grow with reduced strain. It also offers something for those that don’t need so many features, such as payroll processing and PEO services as standalone offerings.
BEST DIRECT EOR SOFTWARE
8. Remote
Remote is a leader in international Employer of Record solutions, with state-of-the-art infrastructure to onboard and pay employees worldwide.
Key features
Remote stands out in the EOR software solutions marketplace for its highly flexible services. Onboarding and compliance services for international employees and contractors can be paid monthly, with a simple fee per employee or contractor. Global payroll processing and EOR services can be purchased as standalone packages.
Pricing
Remote costs $599 per employee to $29 per month per contractor.
Pros
- No mandatory contract lengths
- Employer of record, contractor management, benefits plans, and global payroll services available a la carte
- It is one of the few global EOR software platforms that enable hiring through wholly-owned subsidiaries, commonly referred to as the ‘Dire’t EOR’ model.
Cons
It does not currently have full international coverage, due to its focus on serving each country through its legal entities.
Our veRemote’smote’s flexible and transparent plans can be great for companies with changing or specific needs. An established company with an internal HR team may use Remote to onboard international contractors. As a company grows and builds its global team, it may sign up for further services without fear of commitment.
BEST EOR SOFTWARE FOR SMALL BUSINESSES
9. Oyster
Oyster (also known as ‘Oyster HR’) is a global Employer of Record SaaS that helps client companies hire employees worldwide. With an intuitive user interface, Oyster is the ideal EOR software for smaller businesses and companies new to global hiring.
Key features
Oyster is targeted at employers who are new to building remote global teams. The employee cost calculator lets business owners see the total costs of hiring in all countries covered, considering average salaries, tax, benefits, and other fees. Since many startups offer equity to sweeten the deal for new hires, Oyster offers an equity assessment tool for employers to learn the risks and benefits of offering stock options to foreign employees. Beyond that, Oyster even provides free courses to help owners, HR staff, and employees learn the specific skills needed in a distributed work environment.
Pricing
Pricing starts at $499 per employee per month and $29 per contractor per month.
Pros
- Equity compensation options are something that only a few EOR software platforms provide.
- Industry-specific support, with Oyster bringing subject matter expertise
- Real-time insights through Oyster’s extensive reporting capabilities.
Cons
As an international EOR platform, Oyster’s benefits offerings are somewhat limited. Only one in-house health plan is available.
Our verdict
Oyster is an excellent service for startups new to hiring and managing remote team . It provides all of the essential onboarding and HR admin tools, but it goes a step further by educating and guiding both employers and employees through the global remote work landscap Though there is a less costly contractors-only option, the lack of flexibility in packages and benefits providers may make the service too limited for some businesses.
Read more about the services they have to offer in our 2023 review of Oyster HR.
BEST PEO SOFTWARE FOR ENTERPRISE
10. Worklio
Worklio is a fully customizable PEO and HR software solution with the most extensive API set on the market. It is designed for HR and business service providers seeking to add PEO and payroll processing.
Key features
Worklio is a platform for enterprise solution providers who want to add national payroll processing and PEO services to their offerings. Clients can customize the Worklio platform interface to match their own UI style, branding, and needs of their client businesses. Worklio handles all payroll payments, garnishments, and payments. Worklio also offers a PEO service that end users can switch on or off at any time.
Pricing
Worklio provides pricing only by customized quote.
Pros
- Government contractor payroll processing compliant
- Tax calculations for all jurisdictions in the US
- Customizable interface
- Tools for franchises and large employers
Cons
- There is no support for international payroll
- No HR admin services
Our verdict
Worklio is a simple way for business service providers to offer a new suite of services, retain customers longer, increase revenue, and move into the PEO and payroll processing space without becoming PEOs or payroll processing services themselves. With their employer of record service, payroll processing service, and customizable user interface, business services companies anywhere in the country can painlessly add these offerings without building up a new business unit.
PEO software and customer support – what do you need?
When selecting PEO software, companies often prioritize technical features, underestimating the importance of robust customer support. It’s a common misconception that customer support becomes secondary if the technology is advanced enough. However, this perspective overlooks a critical aspect of PEO software: its role in managing complex, people-focused processes.
PEO solutions don’t just automate tasks; they deal with intricate HR functions sensitive to local labor laws and regulations. This is where the value of human expertise in customer support becomes evident. While the software efficiently handles payroll, benefits administration, and compliance, questions and unique scenarios that require a deep understanding of local labor laws are inevitable. An automated response or a general FAQ section won’t suffice in these instances.
A dedicated customer support team that combines technical know-how with HR expertise becomes indispensable. They provide tailored guidance, ensuring that your business complies with local regulations and adopts best HR practices. This human element in customer support can make a significant difference, especially in situations that require nuanced interpretation of labor laws or personalized solutions for complex HR issues.
Moreover, adequate customer support in PEO software extends beyond problem-solving. It’s about building a relationship where the provider understands your business’s unique needs and growth trajectory. This relationship enables the provider to offer proactive advice and support rather than just reactive solutions.
To summarise, while the technical capabilities of PEO software are crucial, the importance of customer support with human expertise cannot be overstated. Companies should seek a PEO provider that offers a blend of advanced technology and accessible, knowledgeable customer support. This combination ensures that your HR operations run smoothly and that you have a reliable partner to navigate the complexities of HR management and local labor laws.
Can using PEO software enhance regulatory compliance?
Using PEO (Professional Employer Organization) software can significantly aid in regulatory compliance in several key ways:
Up-to-date Legal Knowledge: PEO software providers are aware of the latest legal and regulatory changes. This ensures that the businesses using the software remain compliant with current labor laws, tax regulations, and employment standards at both federal and state levels.
Automated Compliance Processes: Many PEO solutions automate compliance-related tasks, such as tax filings, reporting requirements, and adherence to labor laws. This automation reduces the risk of human error and ensures timely submissions and responses to regulatory requirements.
Risk Management: PEOs often provide guidance and support in managing compliance risks. They help businesses understand and navigate the complexities of employment law, which is particularly beneficial for small and medium-sized enterprises that may need to gain in-house legal expertise.
Employee Classification and Payroll Compliance: Proper classification of employees and contractors is crucial for compliance. PEO software helps ensure that workers are correctly classified and payroll is processed according to legal requirements, including appropriate deductions and withholdings.
Benefits Administration: PEO software assists in managing employee benefits in compliance with regulations like the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and ERISA (Employee Retirement Income Security Act). This includes handling benefits enrollment, managing qualifying events, and ensuring proper reporting.
Record Keeping and Documentation: PEO software aids in maintaining detailed and organized records, which is a crucial aspect of compliance. This includes documentation related to hiring, employee management, and termination processes.
Training and Resources: Many PEOs provide resources and training to ensure management and staff are informed about compliance issues. This education can cover anti-discrimination laws, workplace safety regulations, and harassment policies.
Customized Compliance Support: Different industries and regions have unique compliance requirements. PEO software can often be tailored to meet these needs, ensuring businesses adhere to industry-specific regulations and regional laws.
By leveraging PEO software, businesses can significantly reduce the complexities and burdens associated with regulatory compliance in HR functions, tax administration, payroll administration, and so on, allowing them to focus more on growth and operational excellence. This support is particularly vital in an ever-changing legal environment where staying compliant is both challenging and essential—within and outside of human resource management.
Enhancing employee experience with PEO software
Fostering a positive and productive work environment is essential. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by leveraging the capabilities of professional employer organization software. While the primary focus of PEO software is often on streamlining HR processes and ensuring regulatory compliance, its impact on the employee experience is equally significant and transformative.
Utilizing PEO software simplifies not only administrative tasks for employers but also brings many benefits directly to the employees. These benefits range from better health insurance options and retirement plans to comprehensive payroll management and professional development support. Such enhancements go a long way in boosting employee satisfaction, morale, and loyalty.
In the following list, we explore how PEO software enriches employees’ work lives, providing them with a robust support system and a suite of benefits catering to their diverse needs. By doing so, we underline the dual advantage of PEO software: it’s not just a tool for operational efficiency but a catalyst for creating a more engaged and well-supported workforce.
Employee benefits derived from software solutions
Comprehensive Health Insurance Options: Access to a broader range of health insurance plans, often with better rates, due to the PEO’s ample group buying power.
Retirement Savings Plans: Easier 401(k) plan enrollment and other retirement benefits, often with better terms.
Employee Wellness Programs: Availability of wellness programs that promote health and productivity, such as gym memberships or mental health support.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Opportunity to set aside pre-tax dollars for medical expenses and dependent care.
Improved HR Support: Enhanced human resources support for employee queries and issues.
Professional Development Opportunities: Access training and development resources that may not be available in smaller businesses.
Efficient Payroll Management: Timely and accurate payroll processing, including tax withholdings and deductions.
Legal Compliance and Risk Management: Reduced risk of non-compliance with labor laws, as PEOs keep up-to-date with regulations.
Time-off Management: Streamlined processes for managing paid time off, sick leave, and other absences.
Work-Life Balance Initiatives: Access to benefits and programs that support a healthy work-life balance.
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Confidential counseling and support services for personal and work-related issues.
Disability and Life Insurance Options: Access to additional insurance options, often at a lower cost.
These benefits highlight the comprehensive support and enhanced employee benefits offerings employees can enjoy when their employer secures the best PEO services facilitated through efficient and user-friendly PEO software.
Best PEO software solutions in 2023 — conclusion
PEOs and EORs in the US and internationally have evolved through the decades from professional service providers to modern tech platforms. Some, such as Rippling and ExtensisHR, are complete HR tech software platforms, with PEO software integral to the service offering.
Others, such as Horizons, Remote, Multiplier, and Oyster, are international EOR providers that hire and onboard employees worldwide through specialized software. They have outstanding customer support due to their knowledge of local labor laws and specialized global human resources outsourcing.
Finally, software partners PrismHR and Worklio are not themselves either PEOs or EORs. Instead, they provide the infrastructure that PEOs, EORs, and other service businesses can use to hire and pay their workforce.
Ultimately, the PEO software solution that best suits your business will depend on individual company needs, industry, and budget. Outsourcing services is never simple, but with a comprehensive PEO solution backed by PEO industry-leading software, your company can thrive in a new global environment.
FAQ
Yes. Many modern PEOs provide their services through a PEO platform or software, paid via a 'Software-as-a-Service' (SaaS) model.
Sometimes, the term 'PEO software' is used in the United States to refer exclusively to software that supports co-employment. Internationally, the terms 'PEO software' and 'EOR software' are used more loosely to cover a variety of international hiring and payment solutions.
