Key Takeaways
- For US-based hiring, top PEO providers include ADP TotalSource, TriNet, and Justworks, while companies hiring internationally can benefit from alternatives like Near for Latin American talent or Horizons and Deel for global hiring.
- PEOs help businesses manage HR, payroll, benefits, and compliance through a co-employment model, reducing administrative burdens.
- Choosing the right PEO requires evaluating service scope, industry expertise, geographic coverage, and pricing models.
HR, payroll, and compliance—these three areas alone are packed with enough regulations, paperwork, and complexity to justify entire departments. Managing them in-house can be expensive, but stretching a small team too thin leads to inefficiencies, compliance risks, and a lot of stress.
PEO providers aim to solve these exact issues. A Professional Employer Organization (PEO) handles payroll, tax filings, employee benefits, and compliance through a co-employment model, giving businesses access to enterprise-level HR support without the overhead of an internal team.
In this guide, we’ll help you determine whether a PEO is the right fit for your business and explore some of the top PEO providers in 2025, making it easier to find the perfect partner for your HR and payroll needs.
How To Determine If Your Business Needs a PEO
Managing HR, payroll, and compliance in-house is quite a task, especially for a small business. One missed tax deadline or misclassified employee, and you’re suddenly dealing with audits, fines, or worse, angry staff.
For many businesses, a PEO takes that burden off their shoulders, providing full-service HR support, payroll automation, and compliance expertise.
But is a PEO the right move for your company? Let’s break down who benefits most from PEO services, what challenges they solve, and when other solutions might be a better fit.
What is a PEO?
A Professional Employer Organization (PEO) is a third-party firm that co-employs your workforce, handling HR administration, payroll, benefits, and compliance through a legal partnership.
Instead of managing these administrative tasks internally, businesses can leverage a PEO’s HRIS (Human Resources Information System), automated tax filings, and pooled benefits plans to streamline operations and reduce costs.
Who uses PEOs?
PEOs are a great fit for businesses that lack dedicated HR resources but still need to maintain payroll accuracy, tax compliance, and competitive benefits.
- Startups and scaling businesses: Early-stage companies often lack the bandwidth or resources to manage HR, payroll, and compliance in-house. A PEO provides a full HR backend without the need to hire an in-house team until they’re ready.
- Small to mid-sized businesses (SMBs): Offering competitive benefits can be challenging for SMBs due to high costs and limited bargaining power. A PEO pools employees from multiple companies, giving SMBs access to high-quality health insurance, retirement plans, and other benefits at more affordable rates. This helps smaller businesses attract and retain top talent while reducing administrative overhead.
- Companies with multi-state employees: Businesses with in-house or remote workers across multiple US states face complex and varying tax laws, employment regulations, and workers’ compensation requirements.
Each state has different rules for payroll taxes, benefits mandates, and compliance reporting. A PEO ensures accurate payroll processing, manages state-specific tax withholdings, and keeps up with changing labor laws, reducing administrative burden and compliance risks.
Common HR challenges PEOs solve:
- Payroll and tax compliance: Automates federal, state, and local tax withholding, staying compliant with FLSA, FUTA, and SUTA.
- Employee benefits and health insurance: Provides group health plans, 401(k) management, and FSAs/HSAs at competitive rates.
- Employment law and risk management: Maintains legal compliance with OSHA, COBRA, ADA, and EEOC regulations while offering legal HR support.
- Scalability and workforce expansion: Handles onboarding, background checks, and payroll integration for both W-2 and 1099 workers.
When a PEO may not be the right fit
While PEOs offer comprehensive HR support, they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Some businesses may benefit from a more efficient and cost-effective alternative if they resonate with these scenarios:
- You only need payroll processing: If your main priority is payroll disbursement rather than full HR outsourcing, a payroll specialist may be a more cost-effective choice.
- You’re hiring offshore workers as independent contractors: If your business is expanding internationally but doesn’t need co-employment, a staffing agency can provide talent sourcing, payroll processing, and localized HR solutions without requiring a full PEO setup.
- You’re hiring offshore workers as employees: If you need a provider that acts as the legal employer for foreign workers (when you don’t have an entity abroad), you will likely need an EoR (Employer of Record) (sometimes referred to as a global PEO) instead.
A PEO can be an essential partner for businesses with complex compliance needs, multi-state employees, or limited HR resources.
However, if payroll and offshore hiring are your primary concerns, alternative solutions may be more appropriate and efficient.

13 Top PEO Providers in 2025: Key Features and Benefits
Finding the right PEO provider depends on your business’s specific needs, whether it’s HR administration, payroll processing, risk management, or benefits administration.
Some companies require full-service co-employment solutions, while others may prefer PEO-adjacent firms (like Global PEOs/EoRs) that focus on specialized offshore hiring, payroll, or compliance support.
This list includes both types of providers, offering flexibility for businesses looking to outsource HR functions without sacrificing control. These companies have been selected based on industry expertise, service offerings, and online reviews. Note that the list is not ranked in any particular order.
1. Near

Near helps companies source, hire, manage benefits, and pay offshore teams.
Unlike traditional PEOs, we don’t use a co-employment model, making us a cost-effective alternative for companies needing offshore HR support without giving up operational control.
Key features
- LatAm hiring expertise: Specializes in LatAm talent placement with a focus on seamless remote hiring in under 21 days.
- Payroll & compliance support: Our EoR services ensure accurate payroll disbursement and compliance with local labor and tax laws.
- Pricing: Monthly fee per hire, with flexible engagement models, no upfront fees, and transparent contracts.
Client review: “It was our first global hire, and it was a success. Near’s team guided us at every step. They connected us with highly qualified candidates, supported us throughout the whole process, and we made a hire in under three weeks.” — Doug Dyer, CFO/COO at Chapter One
2. TriNet

Based in California, TriNet provides full-service PEO solutions for small and mid-sized businesses. It offers payroll administration, risk mitigation, benefits management, and compliance support.
Its HR technology platform integrates time tracking, recruiting, and onboarding, helping businesses streamline workforce management while ensuring compliance with multi-state tax regulations and ACA requirements.
Key features
- Regulatory compliance expertise: Specialized support for navigating state-specific tax laws, labor laws, and ACA compliance.
- Industry-specific expertise: Supports businesses in finance, technology, healthcare, and professional services.
- Pricing: Available upon negotiation, with customized plans based on company size and service needs.
Client review: “We like that the platform increases pay accuracy by highlighting essential changes in payroll, including new hires, pay rate adjustments, departures, additional pay, missing I-9s, and general deductions. TriNet can help small and midsize businesses (SMBs) run payroll and manage business expenses.” — Skye Schooley, Senior Lead Analyst (via Business.com)
3. Horizons

With offices in the US, UK, Europe, and APAC, Horizons specializes in global PEO and payroll solutions for businesses hiring across multiple countries. It handles international tax compliance, employment contracts, and benefits administration in over 180 markets.
With a centralized HR platform and in-country legal teams, it provides a way to expand internationally without needing direct operations in new markets.
Key features
- Rapid international onboarding: Hire employees in 48 hours without establishing a local entity.
- Localized HR and compliance support: Dedicated in-country legal and payroll teams ensure adherence to regional regulations.
- Pricing: EoR services start at $299 per month, while full PEO pricing is available upon negotiation.
Client review: “Horizons has been a game-changer for us. Their integrated recruitment and payroll services, combined with transparent pricing and exceptional local HR expertise, make global workforce management seamless and cost-effective. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a reliable EoR partner!” — Payal C., Quality Analyst (via G2)
4. Insperity

Insperity, with offices across the United States, offers PEO solutions tailored to mid-market businesses. It provides payroll processing, HR compliance, risk mitigation, and benefits management, all integrated with workforce analytics technology.
The company’s scalable HR platform supports businesses through growth phases, mergers, and multi-state expansion, meaning it’s ideal for customized, long-term HR support.
Key features
- Workforce analytics technology: Provides real-time data insights for HR, payroll, and performance management.
- Compliance and risk management: HR specialists handle OSHA compliance, employment disputes, and multi-state regulations.
- Pricing: Offers both percentage-based fees (calculated as a percentage of payroll) and flat per-employee pricing.
Client review: “I like how easy it is to see all the information you need at a quick glance, like time clock, benefits, and trainings (which are very useful, especially if your business is new).” — Maria N., Customer Success Specialist (via G2)
5. INFINITI HR

Headquartered in Maryland and Arizona, INFINITI HR provides PEO solutions for small and midsize businesses, focusing on payroll, tax administration, and benefits management.
It offers access to Fortune 500-level benefits, helping attract top talent while keeping costs competitive. Recognized by Forbes and Investopedia as a top PEO provider, it offers a scalable HR solution without the overhead of in-house administration.
Key features
- Franchise HR expertise: Supports multi-location workforce compliance across various industries.
- Comprehensive benefits access: Offers competitive health plans, retirement solutions, and time & attendance tools.
- Pricing: Available after consultation with a sales representative to determine a customized solution.
Client review: “We chose and implemented the INFINITI HR PEO last fall and have been very happy with our decision. We now have a partner who helps us with payroll, benefits, HR, time and attendance, and 401(k) for our management company and all of our 12 hotels. We have had great service and look forward to a long partnership with the INFINITI team.” — Sandeep Thakrar, President, Neema Hospitality (via Choice Hotels).
6. Resourcing Edge

Resourcing Edge
Resourcing Edge, a US-based PEO, offers payroll processing, tax administration, HR consulting, and benefits management for businesses of all sizes.
It provides customized HR solutions, compliance risk management, and workers’ compensation support. Its cloud-based HR platform, re360, gives employers real-time access to payroll, benefits, and compliance data.
With a single-point-of-contact model, businesses receive dedicated account management and expert HR guidance, making it a more personalized PEO service.
Key features
- Specialized industry support: Experience working with construction, healthcare, finance, and hospitality businesses.
- HR training and compliance tools: Provides monthly webinars, e-learning modules, and risk assessment resources for ongoing education.
- Pricing: Available upon consultation, offering customized PEO service packages.
Client review: “We’re still early in the relationship, having just processed our first payroll which went well. The onboarding process went very well with great overall communications.” — Fran (via StaffMarket)
7. Deel

Headquartered in San Francisco, Deel specializes in PEO services for remote teams, handling payroll, HR compliance, and benefits administration across all 50 US states. It provides state-specific tax compliance, automated payroll processing, and risk mitigation for businesses hiring across multiple jurisdictions.
Deel also offers HR training, policy development, and EEOC compliance support.
Their global EoR services also allow you to hire across 150 countries.
Key features
- Automated tax compliance: Manages state unemployment tax accounts, workers’ compensation, and payroll tax filings.
- Fortune 500-level benefits: Offers affordable health insurance, retirement plans, and employee perks.
- Pricing: Starts at $89 per employee per month, covering new hire compliance, payroll, and state-specific HR policies.
Client review: “What I admire most about Deel is its ability to simplify and revolutionize global hiring. It empowers businesses to seamlessly onboard, manage, and pay talent across borders without the typical administrative complexities.” — Mohamed S. Constructor AI (via G2).
8. Justworks

With offices in New York City, Mexico City, London, and Tampa, Justworks provides PEO solutions for small businesses, offering payroll, HR support, compliance management, and access to employee benefits.
It integrates automated payroll services with time tracking, allowing businesses to handle payroll tax compliance, workers’ compensation, and benefits administration in one platform.
Key features:
- Flexible PEO plans: Choose from PEO Basic ($59/month per employee) for payroll and compliance, or PEO Plus ($109/month per employee) for enhanced benefits.
- 24/7 support & HR consulting: Access round-the-clock assistance with HR tools, compliance guidance, and tax support.
- Comprehensive benefits administration: Offers health insurance, 401(k) plans, HSA/FSA accounts, and mental health benefits.
Client Review: “Justworks is so easy to use and has all the features our business needs. Their customer support is very helpful and timely. Setting up new employees is a breeze, and it makes the hiring process simple. As a small business, we are able to gain access to big business employee benefits.” — Jennifer G. (via G2)
9. Rippling

With operations in the US and EU, Rippling combines PEO services with advanced HR technology, handling payroll, benefits, and compliance automation. It provides automated tax filings, COBRA administration, and EPLI coverage, reducing legal risks for employers.
Its SHRM-certified HR experts support businesses navigating complex employment laws and workforce management.
Key features
- Unified HR & payroll automation: Automates tax filings, COBRA administration, and EPLI coverage to reduce legal risks.
- Extensive integration: Connects payroll with HR, IT, and finance, enabling businesses to run payroll in 90 seconds while maintaining compliance across jurisdictions.
- Pricing: No public pricing available—negotiated upon contact based on company size and service needs.
Client review: “Rippling saved us tons of money by allowing us to smoothly hire people across multiple countries and take all the housekeeping tasks off our table.” — Ahmad I., Head of Engineering, Computer Software (via Capterra)
10. ADP TotalSource

Based in New Jersey, ADP TotalSource is a full-service PEO handling payroll, benefits, HR compliance, and tax administration.
It offers customizable health insurance plans, 401(k) benefits, and employee wellness programs. ADP’s HR advisers assist with hiring, onboarding, and regulatory compliance, meaning businesses stay compliant with federal, state, and local employment laws.
Key features
- Workforce compliance management: Provides ongoing HR support for legal compliance, audits, and risk mitigation.
- HR and payroll automation: Offers payroll tax filing, direct deposit, and mobile self-service tools for employees.
- Pricing: No publicly available pricing—negotiated based on company size and service requirements.
Client review: “Simply phenomenal given the ease of use, and the helpline is always available for me to call and have an issue resolved ASAP.” — Elaine Y., CEO (via Capterra)
11. Sequoia One

Based in San Francisco, Sequoia One specializes in PEO solutions for tech startups, offering HR outsourcing, payroll, benefits administration, and compliance support.
It helps VC-backed companies optimize their compensation strategies while providing access to employee benefits. With a dedicated HR platform and mobile app, its PEO model is ideal for companies looking to scale while managing HR and benefits efficiently.
Key features
- Tailored for tech startups: Specializes in high-growth industries like AI, biotech, SaaS, and cybersecurity.
- Compensation and benefits optimization: Helps VC-backed companies create competitive compensation packages.
- Pricing: Custom pricing available upon consultation, tailored to company size and service needs.
Client review: “Our reps are extremely responsive, usually within a couple of hours even though the SLA is 24 hours. They answer everything from how to retrieve certain reports to making sure our taxes are filed across all our states properly. It’s really easy to get up and running and doesn’t require ongoing maintenance.” — Joslah K. (via G2).
12. Oyster HR

Oyster HR provides global PEO and EoR services, helping businesses hire, onboard, and pay employees in 180+ countries without establishing local entities.
Its all-in-one platform simplifies international workforce management by ensuring local compliance, payroll automation, and benefits administration.
With a self-serve interface and automation-driven processes, Oyster is ideal for fast-scaling businesses looking to expand globally with minimal overhead.
Key Features
- Built-in global compliance: Ensures labor law adherence, payroll tax compliance, and contract standardization in 180+ countries.
- Automated payroll & HR workflows: Streamlines onboarding, offboarding, and cross-border payments through an integrated platform.
- Pricing: Payroll-only starts at $25/month, EoR at $699/month, full PEO services require a custom quote.
Client review: “Reliable, good customer support, quick to respond, and a really well-built platform that continues improving. A lot of things are self-serve, which is great for us as a fast-moving business. This makes onboarding and offboarding quick and clear to navigate regardless of location.” — Vilte D., Business Operations Manager (via G2).
13. BBSI

With headquarters in Vancouver, Washington, BBSI offers a non-traditional PEO model that provides customized HR, payroll, risk management, and employee benefits. Unlike many PEOs, BBSI has local teams across the US, offering hands-on support tailored to industry-specific needs.
Key features
- Local, high-touch service: Provides in-person HR and compliance support across multiple US locations.
- Risk management expertise: Specializes in workers’ compensation, OSHA compliance, and safety training.
- Pricing: Customized based on business size, needs, and level of support required.
Client review: “We would not be in business without the relationship we have with BBSI.” — Joclynn B., Leaps n Boundz (via BBSI website)

How to Choose the Right PEO for Your Business
Picking the right PEO provider requires evaluating how well their services align with your company’s growth plans, industry, and compliance needs.
Here’s what to consider before making a decision:
- Scope of services: Does the PEO offer payroll processing, compliance management, benefits administration, and risk mitigation? Make sure their capabilities match your business needs.
- Industry expertise: Some PEOs specialize in sectors like tech, healthcare, or finance, which can impact service effectiveness and compliance support.
- Geographic coverage: If you’re hiring internationally, a global PEO/EoR with global compliance expertise means legal adherence across multiple jurisdictions. If you are only hiring within the US, then most US-based PEOs will be able to meet your needs.
- Pricing models: Some providers charge flat fees, while others take a percentage of payroll. Understanding the cost structure helps avoid hidden fees.
Before committing, ask about multi-state compliance, additional costs, and scalability options. Consider if you need a PEO that offers an HR platform with automated payroll and workforce management tools to simplify operations.
Deciding whether a PEO or an EoR best fits your workforce is usually going to simply depend on whether you are hiring offshore or not. If you are only hiring in the US, a PEO is your best option. If you are hiring employees overseas, you need an EoR (Global PEO) or a staffing firm that offers EoR services.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right PEO provider helps you stay compliant while simplifying HR, payroll, and benefits administration. But not every company needs a full-service PEO—some may only require payroll management or offshore hiring support without the added complexity of co-employment.
The key is matching your needs to the right solution.
If you’re only managing US-based employees, a PEO makes sense.
But if you’re looking to hire outside the US, working with Near gives you a complete solution that covers everything: sourcing and screening top candidates, managing payroll and benefits, handling compliance and contracts, and providing ongoing support.
Ready to simplify hiring? Book a free consultation call to find the best approach for scaling your team efficiently, affordably, and with full compliance.