How to Choose a PEO

Your first step in selecting a professional emoployer organization is to decide whether to use a big national company, like ADP, Doherty or TriNet, or one that operates regionally. (To find a PEO in your area, go to the NAPEO site.)

A national PEO is more likely to have ESAC accreditation. On the other hand, a local PEO can give you more personal service. Depending on your location, you may not have much choice locally. NAPEO lists only one PEO headquartered in the state of Wyoming, for example.

There are also online brokers and networks that will help you find a PEO and/or put your project out for bid among PEOs. (For a list of these sites, go to the Resources section of this Buyer’s Guide.)

You can also ask other businesses in your industry, particularly if you're looking for a PEO that specializes in your niche.

Here are some questions you can use to guide you to the best PEO for your business and to evaluate a particular PEO’s services. These were suggested by NAPEO as well as by business owners and PEOs themselves.