More businesses than ever before are taking advantage of human resource outsourcing (HRO), delegating key HR functions to external, expert providers. From payroll and benefits administration to recruitment and compliance, HRO providers offer tailored solutions that reduce administrative burdens, ensure regulatory compliance, and often save costs. Outsourcing HR functions can be a game-changer for your business, offering access to expert services that might otherwise be out of reach while letting your company focus on core organizational goals.
This is your guide to 8 leading HRO providers, with everything you need to determine which one best meets your organization’s unique needs. By understanding what each company brings to the table, you can choose a partner that fits within your budget while simplifying HR operations, improving efficiency, and supporting business growth.
You can use the table below to navigate to the provider you’re interested in learning about, or simply dive in below.
The Best HR Outsourcing Providers
Here are 8 of the top HRO companies on the market today. Note that only some of these organizations are complete HR outsourcing providers, known as professional employer organizations (PEOs). Other providers may offer select HRO services or HR software solutions, but only PEOs allow your organization to outsource all of its core HR responsibilities. You’ll also find NPS scores for each company, reflecting customer loyalty and satisfaction.
1. AdvanStaff
NPS Score: 84
AdvanStaff is a full-service HR outsourcing provider and PEO that assists businesses with key HR functions like payroll, benefits administration, workers’ compensation, and more. AdvanStaff combines the personalized service that smaller, local providers excel at with the comprehensive resources and tools found at larger HRO firms. Reliable, high-touch customer support and a dedicated team of HR specialists work alongside your staff to ensure stability, growth, and efficiency.
Based in Nevada, AdvanStaff was founded in 1993 and has over 30 years of HR experience. AdvanStaff provides nationwide services through work site employees (WSEs) in all 50 states, and local staff are available to come onsite to your company’s location. It has established industry relationships with benefits providers, insurance companies, and regulatory bodies, leading to better offerings and pricing for clients.
AdvanStaff also sets itself apart with its localized expertise and is deeply familiar with Nevada’s unique laws and regulations. It is the only PEO that offers a master health plan with Sierra/Health Plan Nevada, the largest provider in the Las Vegas market.
Pricing
AdvanStaff’s pricing structure is transparent and customized based on the size and specific needs of your business, with quotes available on demand. Your company only pays for the services it needs, keeping costs low and avoiding hidden fees. This flexibility makes AdvanStaff a cost-effective option for organizations seeking a customized HRO solution that can scale with their business.
Key offerings and features
- HR administration: Paperless online onboarding, new hire reporting, and the creation of employee handbooks and policies
- Payroll: Payroll services, including managing withholding, deductions, and garnishments and handling key filings, like Forms 740 and 741 along with W-2s and W-4s, even offering certified payroll for government contractors
- Benefits administration: Enrollment in all benefit plans, open enrollment management, communication with benefit carriers, and access to meaningful, low-cost employee benefits like employee assistance programs (EAPs) and rewards
- Workers’ compensation: End-to-end workers’ compensation program management, assistance with policy underwriting process and policy renewals, and OSHA 300/A summaries and log publication
- Health insurance: Many plan options at a variety of price points, with pay-as-you-go billing and no client premium audits
- Compliance and safety: Strong, OSHA-certified safety team with onsite auditors and industry-specific safety manuals and consultations
Pros and cons
Pros
- Personalized service: Quick response and implementation times, custom solutions tailored to your business needs, and full Spanish-language support
- Years of experience: AdvanStaff’s proven track record means they have a deep understanding of complex HR functions and compliance, along with a history of successful partnerships that provide potential clients with confidence in AdvanStaff’s reliability and effectiveness
- Local expertise: Specialized knowledge of Nevada labor laws and regulatory requirements, along with relationships with key local healthcare providers
- Integrated technology: Easy-to-use but powerful HR information system (HRIS) and learning management system (LMS) solutions enhance efficiency and employee development
- Transparent pricing: Clear and adaptable pricing to match business needs
Cons
- Outsourced services: Companies with 1000 or more employees often reach a scale where they’re better served by having a large, in-house HR team adopt HR software instead of working with a PEO.
Summary
AdvanStaff is an excellent choice for businesses looking for a full-service outsourcing provider that offers a unique blend of personalized support and years of expertise.
2. TriNet
NPS Score: 61
TriNet is an HRO provider with a focus on small- to mid-sized businesses, servicing organizations that range in size from five to over 1,000 employees. It offers a suite of services including payroll, compliance, and performance management. Customers can engage TriNet as a PEO or choose a more limited services package.
Pricing
TriNet operates on a per-employee, per-month (PEPM) pricing model, rather than charging a percent of a client company’s payroll. Pricing starts at $8 PEPM, with a 5 employee minimum. TriNet also levies fees for set up, integrating insurance brokers, and other items. Potential customers can request a quote online.
Key offerings and features
- HR expertise: Includes a team of HR consultants and an assigned support professional
- HR services: Offers payroll, benefits, compliance, and talent management services
- Learning management: Supports development with a range of online courses
- HR platform: Features a centralized platform for managing and accessing HR functions
Pros and cons
Pros
- Variety of options: Provides both full-service PEO offerings and specific outsourced HR services
- R&D tax credits: Features a solution for maximizing R&D-related tax credits
- Industry experience: Experience with a wide range of industries
Cons
- Minimum employee requirement: Requires at least five and no more than 1,000 employees
- Cost considerations: Pricing may be high even compared to other PEOs and TriNet’s pricing model can lead to a lack of up front clarity on costs, along with relatively high annual price increases and unexpected fees for items like the cost of further platform development.
- High number of add-ons: TriNet requires a relatively high number of add-ons to cover common HR necessities and functions, leading to additional expenses.
Summary
Small and mid-sized businesses who are looking for a PEO or more limited HRO services may consider TriNet. High costs and a lack of price transparency before and during the engagement may also be an issue.
3. Insperity
NPS Score: 70
Insperity is a PEO that offers HRO services for small and midmarket businesses. Available services include payroll processing, benefits administration, and risk management. Insperity also provides an HR technology platform that automates and centralizes key HR processes.
Pricing
Insperity’s costs are generally on the high end for a PEO, typically coming in around $150-210 PEPM. Potential customers can contact its sales team for a quote.
Key offerings and features
- Payroll services: Covers payroll processing and tax filings
- Benefits administration: Includes medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Compliance support: Help with HR compliance, including reporting requirements, workers’ compensation, and employment practices
Pros and cons
Pros
- Talent management: Assistance with recruitment, retention, and talent development in addition to other HR responsibilities
- Automation: Platform automates routine payroll and HR admin functions
- Locations: Insperity has more than 90 locations across the U.S.
Cons
- Customer service: Lack of quality customer support may be an issue for organizations and employees based on numerous poor user reviews
- Expense: Insperity is on the more costly side of the PEO marketplace
- Lagging technology: Insperity’s HR platform is outdated compared to some competitors’ offerings
- Lack of customization: The full-service nature of Insperity’s offerings means it’s not a great fit for companies that only need HR admin support or other select HR services
Summary
Insperity is an option for US-based businesses looking for a PEO that also have the budget to accommodate potentially high costs. Organizations considering Insperity should be aware of the risk of subpar support and customer service.
4. BambooHR
NPS Score: 71
BambooHR is an HR software provider, rather than a full-service HRO company. Its platform includes features that run the gamut of HR functions, from performance management to hiring and onboarding. BambooHR’s platform is intended to meet the needs of companies of all sizes, from startups to companies of 500 or more employees. It offers “Core” and “Pro” software packages, along with add-on solutions for payroll, benefits administration, and time tracking.
Pricing
BambooHR charges on a per-employee, per-month basis for companies with more than 25 employees, and a flat monthly rate for smaller organizations. Companies generally pay a PEPM cost of between $12-22. Interested users can compare plans and request a quote on its website.
Key Offerings and Features
- Centralized platform: Offers a single platform that can handle a variety of HR functions
- HR data: Assists with integrating and analyzing HR data
- Employee satisfaction: Includes ability to measure employee satisfaction and improve employee wellbeing
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Communication: The platform has a centralized space for employees to connect remotely while staying up to date on important announcements
- Feedback: Uses Likert scale questions to gauge employee well-being
- Mobile app: Includes a mobile app for access on the go
Cons
- Lack of services: As a software provider, BambooHR does not offer the level of service or support offered by an actual PEO or other HRO services provider
- Issues with scaling: Some users support a lack of scalability when it comes to reporting capabilities and other features
- Core HR functions as paid add-ons: Important HR functions, including payroll, time-tracking, and benefits administration, do not come included with either standard software package, but are instead only available as paid add-ons
Summary
BambooHR offers an HR platform suited for growing businesses that do not need the level of support given by a true HR outsourcing services provider and are able to pay for necessary add-on features.
5. ADP
NPS Score: 71
ADP offers both HR software solutions and HRO services for businesses of all sizes. Its HR software products assist with core HR responsibilities like talent management, payroll, and time and attendance. It also provides a full-service PEO offering for organizations that require additional ongoing HR support.
Pricing
Pricing for ADP’s various products and services vary. RUN, its payroll platform, starts at around $20-30 PEPM. ADP Workforce Now, its more comprehensive HR platform offering, generally costs between $30-50 PEPM. ADP Comprehensive Services, which is its administrative services organization (ASO) offering, runs around $90-120 PEPM. Finally, ADP TotalSource, its PEO level of services, typically costs in the range of $100-150 PEPM. More detailed information on these and other products can be requested online.
Key offerings and features
- Software ecosystem: Offers several software solutions that organizations can adopt piecemeal or collectively
- Employee experience: Includes features that focus on boosting team members’ engagement and wellness
- Workforce management: Provides workforce management software that includes AI-powered forecasting and automation for administrative processes
Pros and cons
Pros
- Experience: ADP has decades of experience in the HR industry
- Tax expertise: A focus on international tax laws and regulations is a bonus for companies with a global reach
- Scalable solutions: ADP provides software and services for organizations of all sizes, from small businesses to large enterprises
Cons
- Complex offerings: ADP offers a wide range of software solutions that may be overwhelming for small organizations
- No HR consultants for small companies: ADP has eliminated its Human Resource Consultants for organizations with less than 100 employees
- Lack of state-specific expertise: ADP often lacks the expertise needed to provide quality guidance regarding state-specific laws and regulations
- Customer service: ADP’s customer service reviews indicate that quality support may be a significant issue. Their customer service is reached through a 1-800 number where the wait time may be hours
Summary
ADP is a viable solution for businesses that need a wide range of HR services, but organizations that want to provide their employees with a first-class experience may want to look elsewhere, due to potential issues with the quality of ADP’s customer support.
6. Justworks
NPS Score: 80
Justworks is an HRO provider that offers both limited outsourcing and full PEO services, as well as a payroll management solution. It specializes in working with small and growing businesses. Justworks’ HR outsourcing services come with a dedicated HR platform, and Justworks also offers assistance with hiring internationally through its employer of record services.
Pricing
Justworks offers tiered pricing for various software and services packages based on your organization’s number of employees. Its payroll package begins at $8 per person per month, in addition to a $50 per month flat fee. Basic PEO services cost $59 per person per month, while Justworks’ more advanced “PEO Plus” package, which includes benefits administration, comes in at $109 per person per month. It also features add-on software and services packages for certain plans, such as its employer of record package for $599 per person per month.
Key offerings and features
- HR outsourcing: Offers both limited and full PEO levels of HRO services
- HR software: Provides software for payroll and other key HR functions
- Time tracking: Features a time tracking add-on software package for $8 per month per person
Pros and cons
Pros
- Pricing information: Provides a significant amount of pricing information online
- International hiring: Assists with international hiring through its employer of record and international contractor payment offerings
- Customization: Its various service and software tiers, along with several optional add-ons, allow customers to pick and choose what they need
Cons
- Mixed customer support reviews: Online customer feedback indicates possible issues with receiving timely or useful assistance from Justworks’ customer support
- Focus on small businesses: Justworks’ offerings are largely targeted to small and growing organizations rather than large, established enterprises
Summary
Justworks may suit small companies looking for a payroll solution or some level of HRO services.
7. Rippling
NPS Score: 48
Rippling is an HR software provider that offers solutions for HCM, payroll, IT, and budget management. Its HCM platform includes a large number of features, including recruiting, performance management, and HRIS capabilities. Rippling also offers a PEO services package where it acts as a co-employer for your company’s workforce.
Pricing
Rippling charges a one-time implementation fee which usually comes to 5-15% of yearly costs. Monthly prices typically range from $21-29 PEPM for HR features and $5-20 PEPM for IT management features. Potential users can request a quote.
Key offerings and features
- HR and IT management: Combines HR services like payroll and benefits administration with IT services like identity and access management
- Automation: Automates common processes with customizable workflows
- Global support: Supports international workforces through its global payroll, contractors, and employer of record offerings
Pros and cons
Pros
- Many options: Many software modules customers can choose among
- Integrations: Large number of integrations available through Rippling’s app store
- Budgetary support: Includes products to track and control company expenses
Cons
- Software over services: Rippling focuses more on HR technology than HRO services and direct human support
- Customer service issues: Some customers report significant difficulty accessing Rippling’s customer support in a timely fashion or getting meaningful assistance
- Payroll mistakes: Users have had problems with incorrect direct deposits, late paychecks, and handling taxes
- Learning curve: For businesses new to automation-heavy systems, some features may take time to fully implement and utilize
Summary
Companies looking to centralize HR and IT functions while leveraging automation to streamline operations might consider Rippling, but those seeking support from a team of HR experts may find dedicated HRO providers more aligned with their needs.
8. Paychex
NPS Score: 76
Paychex is an HR services company whose core offerings center on payroll processing, with additional services – like benefits administration, talent management, and risk management – available as add-ons or as part of higher tier packages. It also offers HR outsourcing services as part of a PEO services package.
Pricing
Paychex offers three core service packages, called “Paycheck Flex,” focused on payroll processing, with a number of add-ons available for each package. It also offers three levels of service packages focused on HR consulting and outsourcing rather than payroll, again with many add-ons available. Pricing varies based on the service package and add-ons selected but is generally in the range of $18-26 PEPM.
Key offerings and features
- Payroll services: Provides online payroll software and higher-tier payroll services packages
- Recruitment: Offers additional HR services for hiring and onboarding
- Benefits administration: Features benefits administration and insurance services
- Time and attendance: Includes time tracking software that integrates with other offerings
Pros and cons
Pros
- Switching payroll providers: Paychex assists with pulling historical data from previous payroll systems
- HR consulting offering: Guidance from an HR consultant is available through certain service packages
- AI recruiting: Paychex offers an AI-driven recruitment solution to streamline hiring
Cons
- Complex ecosystem: Paychex’s many service offerings do allow for significant customization, but the wide array of service options and add-ons may be overwhelming
- Lack of full service and guidance: Most of Paychex’s offerings do not offer the full HRO services and expert guidance that come with a PEO
- Customer service issues: As with many large HR providers, online customer testimonials indicate significant problems with the quality of Paychex’s customer support
Summary
Paychex is an option for organizations primarily concerned with payroll processing that may need some additional HR services, but those looking for a full-service HRO provider that offers a personal touch might not be satisfied.
Providers with State and Industry Expertise
Now that you’ve seen 8 of the top national HR outsourcing companies, let’s take a quick look at two exceptional specialized providers, one focused on a specific state and the other dedicated to a single industry.
ProService Hawaii
ProService Hawaii is a PEO that works with more than 3,000 Hawaii employers. It provides a full suite of HR outsourcing services, from benefits administration, to payroll, to risk and compliance management. ProService clients account for almost 10% of Hawaii’s private employment market, and it has been the largest Hawaii-based HR outsourcing provider since 1994. ProService combines unmatched local expertise, personalized service, and innovative HR products.
ProCareHR
ProCareHR is an HR outsourcing provider specializing in the senior and disability care services space. ProCareHR’s team of experts understand that those who work in this industry want to spend their time providing exceptional service to those in their care, rather than dealing with time-consuming HR tasks. It offers HR outsourcing services for all key HR functions, including onboarding, risk management, and benefits administration, backed by easy-to-use HR software.
Why HR Outsourcing Matters
Now you’re familiar with several of the most popular HR outsourcing providers — but why outsource HR responsibilities in the first place? Whether your company is looking to streamline operations, reduce costs, or mitigate risks, HRO is the answer. Here’s a look at several of its key benefits.
Expertise
The best HRO providers offer the expertise of dedicated HR professionals who bring years of experience to bear for your organization. They know the laws and regulations of your state inside and out, so your company remains compliant with key requirements and can avoid hefty fines, reputational damage, and other penalties. They also streamline complex HR areas like payroll processing, ensuring that the process is performed correctly every time, keeping employees satisfied and happy.
Improved HR Strategy
HRO allows your internal team to focus on strategic HR priorities instead of routine administrative tasks. By entrusting payroll, benefits administration, and other responsibilities to a PEO, your team can allocate more time to high-impact projects like talent acquisition or employee engagement initiatives. Thanks to HRO , our organization can realize the benefits of a locked-in focus on strategic HR priorities without letting routine but critical HR functions fall by the wayside.
Cost Savings
Many small and mid-sized companies don’t have the resources necessary to hire HR professionals to handle payroll, benefits administration, and other tasks effectively. A quality HR department demands significant investments in hiring, salaries, ongoing training, and more. HRO providers let your company avoid these costs by offering scalable services that deliver exceptional results without breaking the bank.
How to Choose a Provider
Your best bet for a great HR outsourcing partnership is to look for a PEO that combines professional expertise with a personal touch and excellent service. Make sure your chosen HRO provider can walk the walk, not just talk the talk, by asking for metrics that prove they have a track record of delivering tangible benefits, like reduced HR costs. The best PEOs also offer tailored, premium benefit plans with lower rates negotiated with your state’s best providers. And they also offer local, state-specific expertise to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
That’s exactly what your company can expect from AdvanStaff. AdvansStaff has more than thirty years of experience serving Nevada businesses, delivering a 27% average ROI on cost savings and a 35% reduction in admin costs yearly. Whether your company is looking for help with employee benefits, payroll, compliance, or workers’ compensation, AdvanStaff has you covered. Its HR experts provide 1:1 support and truly care about helping your company thrive, and its all-in-one HR management software gives you everything you need to deliver an incredible employee experience in one place.
If you’re ready to simplify your HR processes and focus on what matters most — your company’s success — AdvanStaff is here to help. Contact us for a free quote today.
FAQ
Which HR Functions can be Outsourced?
Almost all core HR responsibilities can be outsourced to a PEO, including payroll processing, benefits administration, compliance management, and worker’s compensation.
How Much do HR Outsourcing Services Cost?
The cost of HR outsourcing varies depending on the provider, the size of your company, and the services you require. Typical pricing models for HRO include per employee per month fees or charging a percentage of employees’ pre-tax monthly earnings, and the best companies customize pricing to meet your company’s needs. While costs can range widely, outsourcing HR is often more cost-effective — and leads to a better employee experience — than hiring a large in-house HR team or purchasing multiple tools for specific HR tasks.
How do PEOs Fit into HR Outsourcing?
A professional employer organization (PEO) is an HRO provider that operates as a co-employer, sharing legal responsibilities for employees and often providing bundled HR services. PEOs are well-suited for companies seeking comprehensive solutions and first-class support.
What Are the Benefits of Outsourcing HR?
Outsourcing HR can save time, reduce costs, improve compliance with labor laws and regulations, and transform the employee experience for the better. It allows businesses to access top notch HR expertise and technology without the expense of maintaining a full in-house team. Internal HR professionals are free to focus on core business goals while leaving routine or complex HR tasks to external HR experts.