Zenefits (now TriNet) vs FreshBooks
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Zenefits (now TriNet)
Zenefits was a cloud-based HR platform for small and mid-size businesses. In 2022, Zenefits was acquired by TriNet, one of the largest PEO providers in the US. The Zenefits platform has been integrated into TriNet's product suite. Businesses previously using Zenefits are now served under the TriNet brand.
FreshBooks
FreshBooks is an accounting and invoicing platform designed specifically for freelancers, self-employed professionals, and small service-based businesses. It is known for its exceptional ease of use and beautiful invoicing tools. FreshBooks focuses on making accounting simple for non-accountants who just need to track income, expenses, and get paid quickly.
Pros
- ✓Strong benefits administration with a wide carrier network
- ✓Easy employee self-service for benefits enrollment and changes
- ✓Affordable base pricing for small teams
- ✓Good compliance tools for ACA and other regulations
Cons
- ✗Payroll processing costs extra as an add-on
- ✗Customer support quality has been inconsistent historically
- ✗Less suitable for companies that need advanced HR or payroll features
Pros
- ✓Easiest accounting software to learn and use — ideal for non-accountants
- ✓Beautiful, professional invoice templates
- ✓Built-in time tracking and project management
- ✓Excellent mobile app for tracking expenses on the go
Cons
- ✗Not suitable for product-based businesses needing inventory management
- ✗Limited features for complex accounting needs
- ✗More expensive than competitors for what you get on lower tiers
- ✗Payroll requires third-party integration
Zenefits (now TriNet) vs FreshBooks: Side by Side
| Factor | Zenefits (now TriNet) | FreshBooks |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | HR Software | Accounting Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $8/employee/mo | $19/mo |
| Best For | Small businesses focused on benefits administration | Freelancers and small service businesses wanting simple, beautiful invoicing and accounting |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Zenefits (now TriNet) Features
- ✓Benefits administration
- ✓payroll
- ✓time tracking
- ✓compliance
- ✓onboarding
FreshBooks Features
- ✓Invoicing
- ✓expense tracking
- ✓time tracking
- ✓project management
- ✓payments
- ✓financial reporting
- ✓bank reconciliation
- ✓mobile app
- ✓client portal
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Zenefits (now TriNet) if small businesses focused on benefits administration. Choose FreshBooks if freelancers and small service businesses wanting simple, beautiful invoicing and accounting.
Best For
Small businesses focused on benefits administration
Best For
Freelancers and small service businesses wanting simple, beautiful invoicing and accounting
Also Consider
If neither Zenefits (now TriNet) nor FreshBooks is the right fit, Justworks is worth evaluating.
Justworks
Small businesses wanting Fortune 500 benefits
From $59/employee/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Zenefits (now TriNet) and FreshBooks?
Zenefits (now TriNet) is best for small businesses focused on benefits administration. FreshBooks is best for freelancers and small service businesses wanting simple, beautiful invoicing and accounting.
Which is better, Zenefits (now TriNet) or FreshBooks?
Choose Zenefits (now TriNet) if small businesses focused on benefits administration. Choose FreshBooks if freelancers and small service businesses wanting simple, beautiful invoicing and accounting.
How much does Zenefits (now TriNet) cost?
Zenefits (now TriNet) starts at $8/employee/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does FreshBooks cost?
FreshBooks starts at $19/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Zenefits (now TriNet)?
Small businesses focused on benefits administration
Who should use FreshBooks?
Freelancers and small service businesses wanting simple, beautiful invoicing and accounting