Central
UnclaimedAI-native platform for payroll, HR, benefits, and compliance for startups.
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TL;DR - Central
- Automates payroll, HR, benefits, and compliance using AI and human experts.
- Offers comprehensive back-office management for US employees and global contractors.
- Provides an AI teammate via Slack for efficient HR tasks and support.
Pricing: Paid only
Best for: Enterprises & pros
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Significantly reduces time spent on HR and payroll tasks through automation.
- Comprehensive compliance management helps avoid fines and penalties.
- Integrated AI teammate in Slack provides instant access to HR functions and support.
- White-glove migration and setup ensures a smooth transition.
- Supports both US employees and international contractors.
Cons
- Only supports US-incorporated companies (LLCs, C-corps, S-corps).
- Does not support certain Web3/crypto businesses involved in token issuance or crypto trading.
- Does not handle international employees and their taxes directly, requiring EOR providers.
Preview
Key Features
US payroll for employees in all 50 statesGlobal contractor payments in 200+ countriesPayroll tax management and reimbursementsMulti-state compliance and state registrationsWorker's compensation managementMail handling and registered agent servicesPersonalized medical, dental, vision insurance401(k) and life/disability insurance
Pricing Plans
Free TrialBase Plan
$50/mo per person + $100 PLATFORM FEE/MO
- FULL back-office
- US payroll & compliance in 50 states
- Pay contractors in 200+ countries
- Health insurance & 401(k)
- Hire, manage and fire
- PTO tracking and policies
- AI teammate in Slack
- We handle migration & setup
- Expert support via Slack/email
- Dedicated insurance broker
- Quickbook & Puzzle integrations
- Add your accountant for free
- First month free
- Unlimited payruns
- No hidden fees
- No annual contract
- Cancel anytime
What is Central?
Central provides an AI-native solution for managing payroll, HR, benefits, and compliance, specifically designed for startups. Unlike traditional platforms that offer a dashboard for self-management, Central leverages AI agents and HR experts to automate and execute these tasks end-to-end, aiming to save businesses significant time.
The platform handles US payroll and compliance across all 50 states, facilitates payments to international contractors in over 200 countries, and manages personalized insurance and 401(k) plans. It also streamlines HR operations from hiring and onboarding to PTO tracking and terminations. A key differentiator is its AI teammate, which integrates with Slack to allow users to manage HR tasks, retrieve information, and initiate workflows through natural language commands, providing a hands-off approach to HR administration.
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Central FAQ
What is the process for switching to Central, and will it disrupt existing payroll or benefits?
Switching to Central is designed to be seamless. Onboarding takes approximately 15 minutes with an expert, and a dedicated migration team handles all data transfers and account closures without disrupting payroll or benefits. Employees retain their current health insurance and receive a single consolidated W-2 at year-end.
Can Central assist if my company has received a compliance fine?
Yes, Central can likely help. The platform's experts are familiar with various state notices and can guide you on how to reduce or waive fines. It is recommended to book a demo to discuss the specific situation.
What types of companies does Central not support?
Central exclusively supports companies incorporated in the US (LLCs, C-corps, S-corps). It does not support businesses involved in gambling, cannabis, or certain Web3/crypto activities such as crypto trading, token issuance, or digital asset custody services due to limitations with underlying payment providers.
Are government filing costs and benefits marked up by Central?
No, Central passes through all payroll, benefits, and government filing costs at their actual cost without any markup. This means that any fees, such as state registration fees, are the same as if the company handled them directly.
Does Central function as a PEO (Professional Employer Organization)?
No, Central is not a PEO. It offers similar advantages in terms of reducing compliance work and overhead but without the typical high seat costs, volatile benefits, lack of control, and lengthy onboarding times often associated with PEOs.
Source: centralhq.com