A professional employer organization (PEO) is one of the most popular options for expanding business operations. PEOs help businesses manage their employees and handle administrative tasks like payroll administration, employee benefits, and more.
There are two types of PEOs: local and global. As a business leader, you may wonder, “Is it better to go with a local or global PEO?” Let’s compare local PEOs and global PEOs to help you decide which PEO type suits your unique business needs.
What are Local PEOs?
Local PEOs operate within a specific region or country. They have a deep understanding of local laws, regulations, and customs that govern employment in that region. This knowledge can be invaluable for companies looking to expand operations in a new location.
Local PEOs can help navigate the complex and changing employment laws and regulations, which can be especially important for small and medium-sized businesses needing more resources to keep up with the latest employment laws.
One of the biggest advantages of using a local PEO is that they can provide local support and expertise. They have a network of local contacts and resources, which can help set up a new business or hire employees in a new location. They can help companies understand the local market and culture, which can be essential for companies looking to build strong relationships with customers and suppliers.
Another advantage of using a local PEO is that they can provide cost-effective solutions. They may have lower overhead costs than global PEOs, which can result in lower client fees. Additionally, because they are familiar with the local market and can leverage local contacts, they can negotiate better rates for services such as insurance and benefits.
Here are some of the top local PEOs in the United States based on recent industry rankings and reports:
What are Global PEOs?
Global PEOs, or international PEOs, are PEOs that operate on a worldwide scale. They have a presence in multiple countries and can help companies manage their employees in different locations. They can help navigate the complexities of international employment laws and regulations.
One of the most significant advantages of using a global PEO is that they offer a one-stop shop for companies with employees in multiple countries. Instead of working with numerous PEOs in different regions, companies can work with a single global PEO with a presence in all countries where they have employees. This can simplify the administrative process and reduce the administrative burden on companies.
Another benefit to using a global PEO is that they can provide access to a larger pool of talent. Because they have a presence in multiple countries, they can help companies recruit and hire employees from a broader talent pool. This can be particularly beneficial for companies that operate in industries that require specialized skills or knowledge.
Based on industry recognition, market share, and overall reputation, some of the top global PEO providers are:
How to Choose Between a Global PEO and a Local PEO
Choosing between a local PEO and a global PEO will depend on various factors. Here are some key considerations when deciding which PEO is right for your business:
Geographic Scope
Local PEOs have a limited geographic scope, typically only operating within a particular state or region, whereas global PEOs have a presence in multiple countries. Therefore, businesses that operate only in a single location might be better served by a local PEO, while those that have operations across multiple regions or countries would benefit more from a global PEO.
Compliance and Legal Requirements
Local PEOs better understand the laws and regulations governing employment in their particular region. In contrast, global PEOs have the expertise to navigate the complex employment regulations of multiple countries. Ensuring that the PEO you choose complies with all relevant laws and regulations, including those related to payroll, benefits, taxes, and employment practices, is vital.
Cost
Local PEOs are often more affordable than global PEOs, which may have higher fees due to the increased complexity of their operations. However, a global PEO may provide more comprehensive services and support that could justify the additional expense.
Service Offerings
Local PEOs typically offer a more limited range of services. In contrast, global PEOs have a wider range of services that can support businesses with global operations, such as visa and immigration support, language translation services, and cultural training.
Scalability
Global PEOs are more scalable than local PEOs. They can manage larger numbers of employees and more complex HR requirements. Businesses that plan to expand their operations in the future might benefit from a global PEO that can support their growth.
Transform Your Business with PEO.com
At peo.com, we make it easy to find the perfect PEO for your organization. Before choosing a PEO, learn everything you need to know from our comprehensive library of helpful resources and educational content.
When you’re ready to find the right PEO for your business, try our easy quoting tool! It will analyze the information you provide about your PEO needs, scan our extensive network of leading PEO partners, and suggest the best providers for you. You can compare quotes and receive competitive pricing within 24-72 hours!
