Guideline Expert Review, Pricing, Alternatives - 2023

4.2
(289)
Huda Idris
Technical writer, B2B software advisor, and marketing strategist

Contributing Experts

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Guideline Versus the Competition

Guideline is one of the biggest vendors in this space. It is robust, comprehensive and easy to use. Its low fees are also a bonus.

If you're ready to get a Guideline demo, we suggest getting in touch for a look at the product and quote. Otherwise, read on!

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Guideline Review

Guideline is a full-service, user-friendly and affordable 401(k) platform. Offering both traditional and Roth 401(k) and acting as your 3(16) and 3(38) fiduciary, Guideline takes care of all your retirement plan needs from administration, investment management, compliance testing, and recordkeeping.

When it comes to investments, Guideline offers 40+ index funds including Vanguard funds and ones from other low-cost providers. Alternatively, participants can choose a managed portfolio with blended average fund fees under 0.07%.

Who shouldn't buy Guideline

Guideline Customers

Guideline: Low fees

Guideline Key Features

  • Full-service 401(k)
  • 3(16) and 3(38) fiduciary
  • Payroll integration
  • Employee onboarding
  • Low-cost mutual funds
  • Employee & employer dashboards
  • Compliance testing
  • Custodial services
  • Recordkeeping
  • Government filing
  • New comparability profit sharing
  • Customizable financial & billing reports

Guideline Key Integrations

Guideline integrates with 180 payroll solutions for an effortless synchronization of data. Visit Guideline's integrations page to see what those solutions are.

Guideline Pricing

Guideline offers two pricing plans:

  • Startup: $39 per month (base fee) + $8 per participant 
  • Prime: $99 per month (base fee) + $8 per participant
Motivosity Recognize
Motivosity Recognize
Motivosity Lead
Motivosity Listen
Free
$5 per person per month
$6.50 per person per month
$2 per person per month

Guideline is Best For

Motivosity Recognize
Motivosity Recognize
Motivosity Lead
Motivosity Listen
Free
$5 per person per month
$6.50 per person per month
$2 per person per month

How Has Guideline Changed Over Time?

Guideline Implementation

Guideline is cloud-based which makes its implementation relatively easy (there isn't anything to download or physically install). Simply go head to Guideline's website and click the "Get Started" button on their landing page. This will take you to a few forms where you can create an account and make your plan purchase.

Guideline Customer Success

Guideline has a knowledge base with articles for customers to self-serve. Customers can also submit a support request if further help is needed. A dedicated account manager is also assigned for premium customers.

About Guideline

As a next step you can visit the Guideline website or read our research on the Top 401k Software.

As a next step you can visit the Guideline website or read our research on the Top 401k Software.

Guideline Alternatives

For small and mid-sized companies

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