November 3, 2025
401(k) meets HR, cue the comment wars
Guideline has been acquired by Gusto
Gusto scoops Guideline—users split between hype and panic
TLDR: Gusto acquired Guideline and says nothing changes, just smoother logins and future tools. Commenters split: some hope it’s a pre‑IPO glow‑up, others report confusing emails and dread being pulled back into Gusto, making small‑business owners and savers wonder if “no changes” really means no surprises.
Gusto just bought Guideline, the small‑business retirement outfit behind many 401(k) plans, and the official line is all sunshine: no changes to your account, no new fees, and you might even get easier logins with single sign‑on. But the crowd isn’t just nodding—they’re loud. One puzzled user says an email from “Accrue” sent them to a different login, stirring a mini‑mystery: is this consolidation or confusion? Another commenter groans that their spouse escaped Gusto for Guideline… only to be dragged back, cue the “rip cord” memes.
The timing set off eyebrow raises: why trumpet this now when the deal was announced months ago? A shareholder admits to “copium”, hoping the combo is just pre‑IPO glow‑up, while a link‑dropper points to 401(k) backtesting notes like it’s homework night. And then comes the spicy: one commenter alleges compliance issues around Guideline’s FSA/HSA (flexible/health savings accounts)—a claim others treat cautiously, reminding everyone that online outrage isn’t proof. Still, it adds drama.
In short, Gusto says it’s a smoother, all‑in‑one future, and Guideline promises business as usual. The community? Split between hopeful for tighter payroll‑retirement integration and nervous about surprise redirects, product quality, and whether this is paving the road to Wall Street. Popcorn, anyone
Key Points
- •Guideline has been acquired by Gusto to integrate payroll and 401(k) services.
- •No immediate action is required for participants or plan sponsors; existing contributions continue.
- •Customers retain access to the mobile app, statements, historical documents, and Help Center resources.
- •SSO using Gusto credentials enables access to Guideline 401(k) accounts; deeper payroll integration for Gusto users.
- •Fees, investments, and transaction processing remain unchanged; security measures continue uninterrupted.