How to Use Gusto

Getting started with Gusto

In this guide, you'll learn how to set up Gusto for your small business, manage payroll, and handle employee benefits efficiently. By the end, you'll be ready to streamline your HR processes with ease.

Step 1: Sign up and set up

1. Visit Gusto's website.
2. Click on the "Get Started" button located at the top right corner of the homepage.
3. Choose a plan that suits your needs (Simple at $40/month + $6 per employee, Plus at $80/month + $12 per employee, or Premium with custom pricing).
4. Fill in your business details, including your business name, address, and Employer Identification Number (EIN).
5. Enter your personal information and create your account.

Step 2: Your first payroll

1. Once logged in, navigate to the "Payroll" tab on the left sidebar.
2. Click on "Run Payroll."
3. Select the pay period and enter the hours worked for each employee or use the "Import Hours" feature if you have a spreadsheet.
4. Review the payroll summary and click "Submit Payroll" to process it.
5. Confirm the payment method (direct deposit or cheque) and complete the process.

Step 3: Get better results

• Use the "Reports" section to view payroll summaries, tax filings, and employee benefits data, which can help you make informed decisions.
• Set reminders for tax deadlines by clicking on the "Compliance" tab to ensure you never miss important filings.
• Encourage employees to use the Gusto mobile app to access their pay stubs and benefits information easily.

Pro tip

Set up automatic payroll processing by selecting "Auto Pay" in the payroll settings. This will save you time by automatically processing payroll on scheduled dates without manual input.

Common mistake to avoid

Many users forget to update employee information, such as pay rates or tax withholding. Always double-check and update these details before running payroll to avoid errors and compliance issues.