Nonprofit Tools
GustovsQuickBooks Online

Gusto vs QuickBooks Online for nonprofits

Choose Gusto if…

Small US nonprofits that employ staff and want payroll handled online

Not ideal for: Organisations outside the US

Choose QuickBooks Online if…

US 501(c)(3) charities that want a familiar system and can use the TechSoup offer

Not ideal for: Organisations needing strict fund accounting with built-in restricted-fund controls

GustoQuickBooks Online
Our rating●●●●○●●●●●
PriceFrom US$49/month plus US$6 per person (Simple)Free plan · paid from US$38/month list price (Simple Start)
Nonprofit offerNone foundUS 501(c)(3) charities can get QuickBooks Online Plus or Advanced through TechSoup for a small yearly admin fee; Australian non-profits and charities are offered 50% off for 6 months.
TypeSpecialistSpecialist
SuitsSmall, MediumVolunteer-run, Small, Medium
Available in🇺🇸 United States onlyUS payroll only🌍 Anywhere
Strengths
  • Easy to use for non-specialists
  • Handles tax filings automatically
  • Wide accounting integrations
  • Most accountants and bookkeepers know it
  • Deep integrations with donation and CRM tools
  • Classes and locations give basic fund tracking
Watch out for
  • US only
  • Per-employee costs rise as you grow
  • Pricing not confirmed on vendor page this session
  • Not true fund accounting
  • Price rises after promotional periods
  • Payroll and other add-ons are charged at full price
Key features
  • Full-service payroll and tax filing
  • Benefits administration
  • Employee onboarding
  • Fund or programme tracking using classes and locations
  • Nonprofit reports: statement of financial position and activities
  • Donation tracking and receipts

Our ratings: Gusto: Well-liked US payroll and HR for small organisations. QuickBooks Online: The best-known accounting tool, with nonprofit reports and a wide accountant base.

General information, not professional advice. Prices and nonprofit offers change and our research is AI-assisted, so confirm with the vendor before you buy. Names and logos belong to their owners. Full disclaimer

Still deciding? Ask your AI

Opens with this shortlist ready, so your assistant can help you decide.

More comparisons

Personalised updates for your nonprofit

Tools and free offers that apply to your country and size, plus a heads-up when prices change. No spam.