
| Compared on | Doing it yourself | In-house HR hire | National PEO / payroll company | AHEAD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | “Free” until a mistake or fine hits | $70K–$80K/year, before tools | Often locked into bundles you don't need | Pay only for what you use |
| Who answers the phone | You | One person, who can burn out or leave | A call center, different rep each time | A local team that knows your business |
| Compliance risk | On you | On one person's knowledge | Managed, but at a distance | Managed by people you can actually reach |
| Flexibility | Whatever you can keep up with | Fixed cost either way | Rigid, all-or-nothing packages | Payroll only, HR only, or both. Your call |