Gusto

Gusto launched "Gus" AI assistant in September 2024 to help small business owners with compliance questions, and in 2026 launched "Cofounder," an agentic AI for payroll, HR, and benefits. Fast Company named Gusto Most Innovative Company in HR for 2025. The company openly discusses AI ethics concerns around copyright and creative ownership, advising business owners to stay current on AI governance regulations.

Gusto laid off 8% in 2023. Payroll startup cutting costs.

Gusto's February 2023 layoff impacted 126 employees (~5% of workforce). Affected employees received 12-16 weeks base salary and 3-4 months COBRA coverage. However, a November 2024 Glassdoor review cited ongoing layoffs across departments, and an August 2025 report described an employee terminated on their exact 1-year anniversary, losing their entire first year's RSU grant due to vesting schedule.