Zenefits is an HR platform designed for small and medium businesses, offering integrated HR, benefits, payroll, and compliance in one system. Founded in 2013, Zenefits pioneered the 'free HR software' model (now paid) where core HR was free and revenue came from benefits brokerage. The platform simplifies employee onboarding, PTO tracking, org charts, and document management. Zenefits competes primarily with Gusto, BambooHR, and Rippling in the SMB HR space.
Zenefits Essentials starts at $10/employee/month for core HR. Growth plan is $20/employee/month. Payroll is an additional $6/employee/month add-on.
Does Zenefits include payroll?
Payroll is an add-on ($6/employee/month), not included in base plans. Many competitors like Gusto include payroll in their core product.
How does Zenefits compare to Gusto?
Gusto is better for payroll-first needs with simpler pricing. Zenefits is stronger for benefits administration and HR features. Gusto is generally easier to use; Zenefits offers more HR depth.