Best PEOs for Small Businesses in 2025

Small business owners face numerous challenges in managing their workforce effectively. The responsibilities can be overwhelming, from navigating complex employment laws to providing competitive benefits. This is where Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs) step in, offering complete HR solutions tailored for small businesses.

But with the PEO market becoming increasingly crowded, how do you identify the right partner for your unique business needs? This detailed guide will explore that question.

We’ll explore the 7 best PEOs for small businesses in 2024. We’ll provide unbiased comparisons of each provider’s key features, pricing structures, and ideal use cases. We’ll also explore PEOs that excel in providing cost-effective solutions, those offering cutting-edge technology integrations, and others that provide exceptional support for international expansion.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of which PEO services are best suited for your small business. This will help you make an informed decision that can drive your company’s growth in 2024 and beyond.

Pro Tip: When evaluating PEO services, look beyond the immediate cost savings. Consider how the PEO can support your long-term growth plans, including potential expansion into new markets or the need to attract top talent with competitive benefits packages. A great PEO should partner in your business’s journey, not just a service provider.

Best PEOs for Small Businesses at a Glance

Before we delve into the detailed reviews, here’s a quick summary comparing the key features and information for the top PEO services:

This summary table provides a quick overview of how these PEO services compare on essential features and pricing. Now let’s dive into my thorough reviews of each provider.

In-Depth Review of the 7 Best PEO Services for Small Business

1. Deel: Best for Global Hiring

Deel has quickly emerged as a leader in the global PEO space, offering an extensive platform for hiring and managing international teams. Their focus on simplifying global employment has made them a go-to choice for small businesses looking to tap into global talent pools without the complexities of setting up foreign entities.

This PEO is particularly well-suited for small businesses with ambitious international growth plans or those looking to build diverse, global teams. Deel’s emphasis on compliance and user-friendly technology makes it an excellent fit for companies venturing into international hiring for the first time.

Key Features

• Global payroll in 120+ currencies
• Localized employment contracts
• International benefits administration
• Expense management and reimbursements
• Time off tracking and management
• Built-in time tracking for accurate payments
• Visa and immigration support
• Equity management for global teams
• API for integration with existing HR tools

Deel Pricing Plans

Deel offers transparent, flat-rate pricing:

• EOR services: From $599 per employee per month
• Contractor management: From $49 per contractor per month
• Custom pricing available for larger teams or high-volume hiring

Best for: Deel is an excellent choice for small businesses looking to quickly and compliantly hire talent globally. Its user-friendly platform and comprehensive international employment solutions make it ideal for companies prioritizing global expansion and diversity in their workforce.

2. Multiplier: Best for Budget-Conscious SMBs

Multiplier has gained traction in the PEO space by offering cost-effective solutions for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) looking to manage their workforce efficiently. They provide coverage in 150+ countries, with a focus on making global employment accessible and affordable for smaller companies.

This PEO is particularly well-suited for budget-conscious small businesses that need robust HR support without breaking the bank. Multiplier’s emphasis on providing essential services at competitive rates makes it a good fit for companies looking to optimize their HR spending while still accessing global talent.

Key Features

• Global payroll in 100+ currencies
• Localized employment contracts
• Standard benefits packages
• Expense management
• Time off tracking
• Visa and work permit assistance
• Basic API for integrations
• Mobile app for employees

Multiplier Pricing Plans

Multiplier offers competitive, transparent pricing:

• EOR services: Starting from $400 per employee per month
• Contractor management: From $40 per contractor per month
• Custom pricing available for larger teams or specific requirements

Best for: Multiplier is an excellent choice for small businesses looking to hire globally on a budget. Its competitive pricing and focus on essential HR functions make it attractive for companies wanting to establish an international presence without a significant financial commitment.

3. Rippling: Best for Tech-Integrated HR

Rippling stands out in the PEO landscape by offering a highly integrated, technology-driven platform that goes beyond traditional HR management. It combines PEO services with IT, finance, and operations tools, creating a unified system for managing all aspects of your workforce.

This solution is ideal for tech-savvy small businesses that value automation and seamless integration across their various business systems. Rippling’s extensive customization options and advanced features appeal to companies looking to streamline their operations through technology.

Key Features

• Unified employee system of record
• Full-service payroll with global capabilities
• Benefits administration and insurance brokerage
• Talent management and applicant tracking
• Learning management system
• IT management (device and app provisioning)
• Expense management and corporate cards
• Time and attendance tracking
• Custom workflows and automations
• Extensive third-party integrations (500+)

Rippling Pricing Plans

Rippling’s pricing is modular and customizable based on the specific services you need. You’ll need to contact their sales team for a custom quote, as pricing can vary widely depending on your requirements.

Best for: Rippling is an excellent choice for tech-savvy small businesses that want to integrate their HR processes with other business operations. Its powerful automation capabilities and extensive integrations make it stand out, particularly for companies looking to scale rapidly and efficiently.

4. Oyster HR: Best for Remote-First Companies

Oyster HR has quickly established itself as a leading PEO service for companies embracing remote work. It offers an easy-to-use platform for hiring and managing distributed teams across 180+ countries, with a strong focus on compliantly employing global talent.

This PEO is ideal for small businesses that have adopted a remote-first approach or are looking to build a global workforce without establishing foreign entities. Oyster’s expertise in international employment law and its user-friendly platform make it easier for small businesses to navigate the complexities of global hiring.

Key Features

• Global employment services in 180+ countries
• Localized employment contracts
• Compliant benefits administration
• Global payroll in 120+ currencies
• Time off and expense management
• Visa and work permit support
• Detailed country-specific hiring guides
• Advanced reporting and analytics
• Employee misclassification protection

Oyster HR Pricing Plans

Oyster offers tiered pricing based on the number of employees and services required:

• EOR Services: $599 per employee per month
• Global Payroll: From $25 per employee per month
• Contractor management: From $29 per contractor per month

Best for: Oyster HR is an excellent choice for small businesses committed to building remote, global teams. Its comprehensive international employment solutions and user-friendly platform make it well-suited for companies looking to hire and manage employees worldwide without the complexity of establishing foreign entities.

5. Papaya Global: Best for Data-Driven HR

Papaya Global offers a robust global workforce management platform that caters to businesses of all sizes, including small businesses with multinational operations. They provide extensive coverage in 160+ countries, with a strong focus on compliance and data-driven insights.

This PEO is particularly well-suited for small businesses that value analytics and want to make data-driven decisions about their global workforce. Papaya Global’s advanced analytics capabilities and strong emphasis on compliance make it an attractive option for companies dealing with complex global workforce management challenges.

Key Features

• Global payroll in 160+ countries
• AI-powered compliance engine
• Extensive benefits administration
• Time and attendance management
• Expense reimbursement
• Immigration and relocation support
• Advanced workforce analytics
• Equity management support
• Customizable reporting dashboards

Papaya Global Pricing Plans

Papaya Global offers customized pricing based on your specific needs:

• EOR services: Starting from $599 per employee per month
• Contractor management: From $25 per contractor per month
• Global Payroll: From $20 per employee per month
• Custom pricing available for larger organizations or those with specific requirements

Best for: Papaya Global is an excellent choice for small businesses that prioritize data-driven decision-making in their HR operations. Its advanced analytics, strong compliance support, and wide global coverage make it well-suited for companies looking to optimize their international workforce management through detailed insights and reporting.

6. Atlas HXM: Best for Complex International Operations

Atlas HXM (formerly Elements Global Services) offers a highly customizable PEO solution catering to the unique needs of businesses operating in multiple countries. They provide global employment services across 160+ countries, with a strong focus on tailored solutions and deep local expertise.

This PEO is best suited for small businesses that require highly specialized solutions for complex international operations. Atlas HXM’s consultative approach and deep expertise in global employment make it a good fit for companies looking for more than just a self-service platform, especially those in regulated industries or with unique compliance needs.

Key Features

• Global payroll in 120+ currencies
• Customized employment contracts
• Comprehensive benefits administration
• Immigration and visa support
• Detailed compliance consulting
• Proprietary HR technology platform
• Advanced reporting and analytics
• M&A and entity setup support
• Risk advisory services

Atlas HXM Pricing Plans

Atlas HXM offers custom pricing based on your specific needs and the number of employees. You’ll need to contact their sales team for a quote. They typically charge a percentage of the total payroll rather than a flat per-employee fee.

Best for: Atlas HXM is an excellent choice for small businesses with complex international operations or those requiring highly customized global employment solutions. Its consultative approach and deep expertise make it well-suited for companies prioritizing tailored support and robust compliance management in their global expansion, particularly in regulated industries or unique markets.

7. ADP: Best for Scalable HR Needs

ADP (Automatic Data Processing) is one of the most established names in HR and payroll services, and their PEO offering, ADP TotalSource brings this expertise to businesses of all sizes. With a long history of providing comprehensive HR solutions, ADP offers robust services that can scale with your small business as it grows.

This PEO is well-suited for small businesses that anticipate significant growth and want a partner that can support them from startup through to medium or large enterprise status. ADP’s extensive experience and wide range of services make it a versatile choice for companies looking for a long-term PEO relationship.

Key Features

• Comprehensive payroll processing and tax filing
• Wide range of employee benefits options
• HR compliance support and risk management
• Talent acquisition and management tools
• Time and attendance tracking
• Employee self-service portal
• Extensive reporting and analytics
• Industry-specific solutions
• Learning management system
• Performance management tools

ADP Pricing Plans

ADP offers custom pricing based on your specific needs and the size of your organization. You’ll need to contact their sales team for a detailed quote.

Best for: ADP is an excellent choice for small businesses looking for a well-established PEO solution that can scale with their growth. Its extensive experience, wide range of services, and industry-specific solutions make it well-suited for companies that want a one-stop shop for all their HR needs, from basic payroll to advanced talent management. ADP is particularly valuable for businesses planning significant expansion, including potential international growth, as it offers the resources and expertise to support complex, multi-state, or global operations.

What are the Benefits of Using a PEO for Small Business?

Partnering with a Professional Employer Organization can be a game-changer for small businesses. Here are the key advantages:

• Cost-Effective Access to Better Benefits: Small businesses often struggle to offer competitive benefits packages due to their size. PEOs pool employees from multiple companies, allowing them to negotiate better rates for health insurance, retirement plans, and other benefits. This means you can offer Fortune 500-level benefits at a fraction of the cost, helping you attract and retain top talent.
• Reduced Administrative Burden: HR tasks can be time-consuming and complex. PEOs take on many of these responsibilities, including payroll processing, tax filings, and benefits administration. This frees up your time to focus on core business activities that drive growth and profitability.
• Enhanced Compliance Management: Staying compliant with ever-changing employment laws and regulations can be challenging for small businesses. PEOs have dedicated teams of experts who stay up-to-date with federal, state, and local laws, helping you avoid costly penalties and lawsuits.
• Access to HR Expertise: Many small businesses can’t afford to hire a full-time HR professional. With a PEO, you gain access to a team of HR experts who can provide guidance on complex issues like employee relations, performance management, and workplace safety.
• Improved Employee Experience: PEOs often provide self-service portals where employees can access their pay information, request time off, and manage their benefits. This modern, streamlined approach can significantly enhance the employee experience.
• Risk Mitigation: PEOs often share in employment-related liabilities, providing an additional layer of protection for your business. They can also help implement best practices to reduce workplace risks.
• Scalability: As your business grows, a PEO can easily scale its services to meet your changing needs. This flexibility is particularly valuable for small businesses experiencing rapid growth or seasonal fluctuations.
• Technology Access: Many PEOs offer sophisticated HR technology platforms that small businesses might not be able to afford on their own. These systems can streamline HR processes and provide valuable workforce insights.
• Recruitment Support: Some PEOs offer recruitment services or tools to help you find and hire qualified candidates. This can be particularly valuable in competitive job markets.
• Strategic HR Partnership: Beyond day-to-day tasks, a good PEO can serve as a strategic partner, helping you develop HR policies and practices that align with your business goals and culture.

By leveraging these benefits, small businesses can level the playing field with larger competitors, improve operational efficiency, and create a better work environment for their employees.

How to Choose the Right PEO for Your Small Business?

Selecting the right PEO for your small business is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your operations and growth. Here are key factors to consider:

1. Assess Your Needs:
   • What specific HR functions do you need help with?
   • Are you hiring domestically, internationally, or both?
   • What are your growth projections?
2. Evaluate Pricing Structure:
   • Compare per-employee costs and any setup fees
   • Consider the value of services provided versus the cost
   • Look for transparency in pricing and potential volume discounts
3. Check Accreditation:
   • Look for PEOs certified by the IRS or accredited by the Employer Services Assurance Corporation (ESAC)
   • These certifications ensure financial stability and adherence to industry standards
4. Consider Technology and Integrations:
   • Assess the user-friendliness of the PEO’s platform
   • Check if it integrates with your existing software
   • Look for self-service options for employees
5. Review Service Offerings:
   • Ensure the PEO offers all the services you need (payroll, benefits, compliance, etc.)
   • Look for additional value-added services like training or recruitment support
6. Examine Customer Support:
   • Check the availability and quality of customer support
   • Look for dedicated account managers for personalized service
7. Evaluate Compliance Expertise:
   • Ensure the PEO has strong knowledge of relevant laws and regulations
   • For international hiring, verify their global compliance capabilities
8. Consider Scalability:
   • Choose a PEO that can grow with your business
   • Look for flexibility in service options as your needs change
9. Check References and Reviews:
   • Ask for references from businesses similar to yours
   • Read online reviews and case studies
10. Assess Cultural Fit:
    • Choose a PEO whose values align with your company’s culture
    • Ensure their approach to HR matches your management style

Remember, the best PEO for your small business is one that meets your current needs and can support your future growth. Take the time to thoroughly evaluate your options, and don’t hesitate to ask the providers detailed questions during the selection process.

Conclusion

Choosing the right PEO can make a huge difference for small businesses. It provides access to comprehensive HR services, cost-effective benefits, and expertise that might otherwise be out of reach. Whether you’re looking for global hiring capabilities with Deel or more budget-friendly solutions with Multiplier, there’s always a PEO solution to fit your unique needs.

The best PEO for your company aligns with your business goals, culture, and growth plans. Consider not just your current needs but where you want your business to be in the coming years. A great PEO partnership can provide the support and expertise you need to focus on what you do best – growing your business.

As you move forward in your selection process, don’t hesitate to contact these providers for demos, detailed quotes, and answers to your questions. The right PEO partner can be a valuable asset in navigating the complexities of workforce management, allowing you to build a strong, compliant, and engaged team that drives your small business toward success.