Why Choose GBA?
Both GBA and PEOs offer outsourced solutions for payroll, benefits, and HR, helping businesses streamline operations and focus on growth. But the way these services are delivered, and the level of control you retain, is very different.
Important distinction: A PEO becomes the employer of record. GBA does not. With GBA, you remain the employer and retain full control of your team, supported by expert guidance every step of the way.
PEO vs GBA: Which is right for your business?
Control Over HR Functions
PEO:
Standardized HR policies are applied across all clients, which may not align with your company culture. This can dilute your employer brand and affect employee engagement. Employees may also have limited access to HR support.
GBA:
We help you create custom HR policies that reflect your values and work environment. Your employees have direct access to a dedicated consultant, offering faster responses and a more personal experience that strengthens your internal culture.
Flexibility
PEO:
Many PEOs bundle services and may require participation in their full offering. This limits your ability to choose what you truly need. Their solutions often include limited options for benefits and vendors.
GBA:
Our model is menu-driven. You choose the services that fit your business, including options for Level 1 or Level 2 payroll support, ongoing or project-based HR, and customized benefits consulting. Each year, we evaluate available carriers and rates to find the best match for your budget and workforce needs.
Cost Transparency
PEO:
Fees are often based on a percentage of payroll or bundled into benefit premiums, which can make true costs hard to identify. Raises can increase your fees, and additional hidden charges may apply. Many PEOs also require long-term contracts with early termination penalties.
Some PEOs may also retain employer FICA tax savings from pre-tax benefits instead of passing that value on to you.
GBA:
You pay only for the services you select. All pricing is transparent and clearly defined. We do not collect tax funds in advance. Instead, you are notified and funds are pulled only when due.
With GBA, your unemployment tax rate is based on your actual business. PEOs use a blended rate across all clients, which may be higher. When exiting a PEO, GBA helps reestablish your state accounts and supports unemployment claim management to help you maintain a lower rate.
Personalized Support and Education
PEO:
Support is often limited to portals and prebuilt resources. Personalized employee education may be minimal, which can result in confusion around benefit choices or retirement planning.
GBA:
We combine robust online tools with personal support. Your team can speak directly with benefits consultants and retirement advisors who provide tailored education. This helps employees make confident and informed decisions.
Offboarding and Transitions
PEO:
Exiting a PEO often involves major operational disruption. You may need to:
- Register new state tax accounts
- Set up new benefits and COBRA systems
- Transfer employee records
- Rebuild your handbook and policies
This can lead to confusion, delays, and compliance issues.
GBA:
We do not take over your infrastructure. This means there is no need to rebuild when transitioning in or out. GBA supports all aspects of the transition process, reducing complexity and ensuring your business continues running smoothly.
Employee Relations and Termination Support
PEO:
Most PEOs avoid direct involvement in complex employee issues. While they may offer general guidance or templates, you are often required to seek outside legal counsel before taking action.
GBA:
We provide full-service HR support and can handle terminations on your behalf if requested. Whether behind the scenes or directly with the employee, we support coaching, documentation, and execution. You make the decisions, and we help you carry them out professionally and in compliance with employment laws.
Why Choose GBA over a PEO?
GBA gives you the flexibility, transparency, and personal service that PEOs often cannot. We work as an extension of your team, delivering custom solutions without taking over control of your business. You stay in charge. We make it easier.
