Lendio Bookkeeping vs Gusto
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Gusto is our recommended pick for most teams — small businesses under 100 employees.
Try Gusto →Read our full Gusto review →Lendio Bookkeeping
Lendio Bookkeeping is a small business bookkeeping service that pairs automated software with human bookkeepers to keep your finances organized. It also connects businesses to funding options through the Lendio lending marketplace.
Gusto
Gusto is a full-service HR and payroll platform built for small businesses. It handles payroll taxes automatically, offers employee benefits administration, and includes onboarding tools that make it easy to bring on new hires. Gusto is known for its clean interface and transparent pricing, making it a top choice for founders managing HR for the first time.
Pros
- ✓Combines software with human bookkeepers
- ✓Connected to Lendio lending marketplace
- ✓Good for businesses needing both bookkeeping and financing
- ✓Simple pricing
- ✓US-focused
Cons
- ✗Less well-known than major competitors
- ✗Limited advanced accounting features
- ✗Best value for businesses also seeking financing
- ✗US only
Pros
- ✓Automatic federal, state, and local tax filing saves hours each month
- ✓Transparent flat-rate pricing with no hidden fees
- ✓Excellent onboarding flow with offer letters, e-signatures, and self-onboarding
- ✓Strong benefits administration including health, dental, and 401k
Cons
- ✗International payroll is limited and requires third-party tools
- ✗Can get expensive as headcount grows beyond 50 employees
- ✗Reporting and analytics are basic compared to enterprise tools
Lendio Bookkeeping vs Gusto: Side by Side
| Factor | Lendio Bookkeeping | Gusto |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | 4.6/5 ★ |
| Category | Accounting Software | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Contact for pricing | $40/mo + $6/employee |
| Best For | Small US businesses wanting managed bookkeeping combined with easy access to business financing options | Small businesses under 100 employees |
| Our Pick | — | 🏆 Recommended |
Lendio Bookkeeping Features
- ✓Small business loans
- ✓bookkeeping
- ✓cash flow management
- ✓financial reporting
- ✓bank reconciliation
Gusto Features
- ✓Payroll automation
- ✓benefits administration
- ✓onboarding
- ✓time tracking
- ✓compliance
Pricing Comparison
Gusto
PaidStarts at $40/mo + $6/employee
Simple: $40/mo + $6/employee · Plus: $80/mo + $12/employee · Premium: $180/mo + $22/employee
See full pricing →Best Use Cases
Gusto
- →US small businesses running payroll for the first time
- →Startups wanting automated tax filing
- →Companies needing combined payroll and benefits administration
Who Should NOT Use These Tools
Gusto is NOT ideal for:
- ✗Companies with international employees
- ✗Large enterprises needing complex payroll rules
- ✗Businesses outside the United States
Integrations
Gusto
QuickBooks, Xero, FreshBooks, Clover, When I Work, Deputy, BambooHR, Greenhouse
Our Take
Choose Lendio Bookkeeping if small us businesses wanting managed bookkeeping combined with easy access to business financing options. Choose Gusto if small businesses under 100 employees.
Best For
Small US businesses wanting managed bookkeeping combined with easy access to business financing options
Best For
Small businesses under 100 employees
Also Consider
If neither Lendio Bookkeeping nor Gusto is the right fit, Dext is worth evaluating.
Dext
Bookkeepers, accountants, and businesses with high receipt volumes wanting to eliminate manual data entry
From $15/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Lendio Bookkeeping and Gusto?
Lendio Bookkeeping is best for small us businesses wanting managed bookkeeping combined with easy access to business financing options. Gusto is best for small businesses under 100 employees.
Which is better, Lendio Bookkeeping or Gusto?
Choose Lendio Bookkeeping if small us businesses wanting managed bookkeeping combined with easy access to business financing options. Choose Gusto if small businesses under 100 employees.
How much does Lendio Bookkeeping cost?
Visit Lendio Bookkeeping website for current pricing.
How much does Gusto cost?
Gusto starts at $40/mo + $6/employee. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Lendio Bookkeeping?
Small US businesses wanting managed bookkeeping combined with easy access to business financing options
Who should use Gusto?
Small businesses under 100 employees