Buyer's Guide · United States
US Applicant Tracking System (ATS) in 2026
By Rajat Gupta, Founder & Lead Reviewer
This guide ranks the 10 best Applicant Tracking System (ATS) options available in the United States as of 2026, ordered by SpotScore — a composite of ratings, verified reviews, and feature coverage. All tools listed support US compliance requirements and are evaluated for suitability in the US market.
Top Applicant Tracking System (ATS) in the United States: Quick Comparison
Ranked by SpotScore — a composite of ratings, reviews, and feature coverage
| # | Product | SpotScore | Rating | Starting price | Pricing model |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ZipRecruiter | 9.8 | — | See pricing | Free Trial, Quotation Based |
| 2 | SmartRecruiters | 9.8 | 4.5/5 (194) | See pricing | Quotation Based |
| 3 | BambooHR | 9.8 | 4.7/5 (1,054) | See pricing | Free Trial, Quotation Based |
| 4 | Jobvite | 9.6 | 4.1/5 (199) | See pricing | Quotation Based |
| 5 | Workable | 9.6 | 4.3/5 (225) | From $360 /month | Free Trial, Subscription, Quotation Based |
| 6 | JazzHR | 9.5 | 4.4/5 (307) | See pricing | Subscription |
| 7 | Breezy HR | 9.5 | 4.5/5 (428) | See pricing | Free Trial, Freemium, Subscription, Quotation Based |
| 8 | Greenhouse | 9.4 | 4.3/5 (311) | See pricing | Quotation Based |
| 9 | Zoho Recruit | 9.4 | 4.5/5 (249) | See pricing | Free Trial, Freemium, Subscription |
| 10 | Freshteam | 9.4 | 4.5/5 (73) | See pricing | Free Trial, Freemium, Subscription |
1. ZipRecruiter
Find your dream job with ZipRecruiter.
- SpotScore
- 9.8/10
- Pricing model
- Free Trial, Quotation Based
- Availability
- Available in the United States
ZipRecruiter helps make job-hunting easier and faster with millions of open opportunities across the U.S. Quickly and easily upload your resume, apply to your desired positions, and get notified instantly when your application is reviewed. The platform also features customizable templates, enabling employers to create job descriptions that appeal to qualified applicants. With advanced matching technology, ZipRecruiter searches through thousands of resumes to locate the perfect candidate and then offers an active invitation to apply.
2. SmartRecruiters
Streamline hiring with SmartRecruiters.
- SpotScore
- 9.8/10
- User rating
- Pricing model
- Quotation Based
- Availability
- Available in the United States
SmartRecruiters is an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) used for posting jobs, finding candidates, and managing recruiting workflow. The web-based platform helps employers attract, engage & hire the best-fit talents. SmartRecruiters works with mid to large-size companies who have complex hiring needs. Many of its customers have a global reach and need a system that is adaptable and configurable for their ever-changing needs.
3. BambooHR
Streamline your HR processes for better business results.
- SpotScore
- 9.8/10
- User rating
- Pricing model
- Free Trial, Quotation Based
- Availability
- Available in the United States
BambooHR is an HR platform built for small and mid-sized businesses — typically 10 to 500 employees — covering employee records, onboarding, time-off tracking, and performance management in one system. It replaces fragmented spreadsheets and disconnected tools by centralizing all employee data with built-in e-signatures, self-service access, and customizable onboarding workflows. Payroll is an add-on rather than a core feature, so HR teams with complex multi-state compliance needs may find it limited.
4. Jobvite
Hire faster, with confidence.
- SpotScore
- 9.6/10
- User rating
- Pricing model
- Quotation Based
- Availability
- Available in the United States
Jobvite is a web-based applicant tracking system (ATS) that puts the power back into the hands of recruiters and hiring managers by automating the recruiting process from start to finish. Our systems help companies source, engage, and assess candidates so they can hire the best possible talent as quickly as possible.
5. Workable
Efficient hiring, simplified for small businesses.
- SpotScore
- 9.6/10
- User rating
- Starting price
- From $360 /month (Starter plan)Vendor-listed price, Feb 2025
- Pricing model
- Free Trial, Subscription, Quotation Based
- Availability
- Available in the United States
Workable is the simple, affordable Applicant Tracking System (ATS) purpose-built for small businesses. Features include Integrated Company Management (Shell), Receive, review and approve applicants from desktop or mobile device in real time, Attract more applicants than traditional ATS products with customized walkthrough videos, Responsive design for all devices, Integrates with user's website so they can capture new leads.
Workable overview · Full Workable pricing · Workable reviews
6. JazzHR
Streamline your hiring process with ease.
- SpotScore
- 9.5/10
- User rating
- Pricing model
- Subscription
- Availability
- Available in the United States
JazzHR is a user-friendly recruiting software built to help growing businesses find and hire the right talent, fast. It replaces spreadsheets and inbox recruiting with an intuitive applicant tracking system that streamlines the entire candidate-to-employee journey. Its recruiting workflows give you complete end-to-end customization of your recruiting process. JazzHR keeps hiring teams up to date with a real-time stream of the latest activities related to the candidate.
7. Breezy HR
Hire smarter, not harder.
- SpotScore
- 9.5/10
- User rating
- Pricing model
- Free Trial, Freemium, Subscription, Quotation Based
- Availability
- Available in the United States
Breezy HR is an applicant tracking system for small and mid-size hiring teams that want to automate recruiting workflows — job advertising, candidate scorecards, automated responses, and interview scheduling — without dedicated HR software expertise. Its drag-and-drop pipeline and team collaboration features centralize hiring across multiple departments. Well-suited for companies under 200 employees; larger organizations with multi-region compliance requirements typically need a more enterprise-grade ATS.
8. Greenhouse
Efficient hiring, fair decisions. Unlock the best talent.
- SpotScore
- 9.4/10
- User rating
- Pricing model
- Quotation Based
- Availability
- Available in the United States
Greenhouse is more than an ATS – they’re a true hiring partner that gives companies of all sizes everything they’ll ever need to get measurably better at hiring. With Greenhouse, organizations can cut recruiting costs and ensure every hire is the right hire. Their industry-leading, AI-powered software supports every stage of the hiring process, from sourcing to onboarding, empowering companies to hire top talent quickly, consistently and fairly – today and as their business grows. With a structured hiring approach at its core, Greenhouse makes it easy to define the role, requirements and attributes of a successful candidate before a job is posted, enabling internal alignment and more confident, data-driven decisions. Greenhouse Real Talent™ enhances this process by helping teams identify and prioritize real, qualified candidates while detecting fraud, spam and impersonation attempts. They’ve helped over 7,500 companies across diverse industry verticals and scaling goals turn talent into a strategic advantage, so they can be ready to hire for what’s next. Some of the most successful companies, like Hubspot, Block, NFL, Lyft, Trivago and HelloFresh, use Greenhouse for data and guidance on the behaviors and capabilities they need to improve their overall hiring performance. They have also received numerous awards showcasing their commitment to product innovation and great hiring, including: G2 Top 50 Best HR Products (2025), G2 Best Enterprise Products (2025), Fortune Best Workplaces (2019–2024) and Inc. 5000 (2018–2024).
9. Zoho Recruit
Hire the best talent with ease.
- SpotScore
- 9.4/10
- User rating
- Pricing model
- Free Trial, Freemium, Subscription
- Availability
- Available in the United States
Zoho Recruit is an easy-to-use Applicant Tracking System (ATS) for all hiring needs. Backed by Zoho’s 15 years of experience in SaaS, the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) offers a wide range of features from candidate sourcing, screening and shortlisting to job postings, resumes tracking and document management. Zoho Recruit helps to hire the best talent with an seamlessly integrated hiring solution.
10. Freshteam
Streamlining your hiring process, one click at a time.
- SpotScore
- 9.4/10
- User rating
- Pricing model
- Free Trial, Freemium, Subscription
- Availability
- Available in the United States
Freshteam is an applicant tracking system (ATS) that helps companies attract applicants from social media sites and provides features for hiring, applicant tracking and posting jobs to social media sites quickly and easily. The Freshteam ATS includes Applicant Tracking System software with over 35 different pre-built reports, job screens, job postings and interview screens.
How to Choose Applicant Tracking System (ATS) in the United States
In the United States, the landscape for Applicant Tracking System (ATS) software is shaped by various regulations and compliance obligations that directly impact your hiring processes. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces federal laws prohibiting employment discrimination, while the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) governs the use of background checks in hiring. Additionally, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that your hiring practices accommodate individuals with disabilities. Navigating these regulations can be complex, and failure to comply can result in severe penalties, including fines and legal action. As you consider ATS solutions, you must ensure that the software you choose not only streamlines your recruitment process but also adheres to these legal requirements to protect your business and your employees.
EEOC rules require personnel and employment records to be kept for a year — a year from the termination date where the exit was involuntary — and payroll records for three years under the ADEA, so retention settings are a functional requirement in applicant tracking software, not housekeeping.1 The rise in remote work and the need for efficient recruitment solutions have accelerated ATS adoption, particularly among mid-sized and large enterprises.
Key Regulations
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Guidelines
The EEOC mandates that employers must not discriminate against candidates based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Your ATS must include features that facilitate equal opportunity hiring practices, such as anonymizing applications to reduce bias. Non-compliance can lead to investigations, fines, and potential lawsuits, with penalties varying based on the severity of the violation.
Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)
The FCRA regulates how employers can use consumer reports, including background checks, in the hiring process. Your ATS must provide features that ensure compliance, such as obtaining candidate consent before conducting background checks and allowing candidates to dispute inaccuracies. Failure to comply can result in fines up to $2,500 per violation and lawsuits from affected candidates.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
The ADA requires that employers provide reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities during the hiring process. Your ATS should support features that allow for the collection of information regarding accommodations needed, ensuring compliance with ADA requirements. Non-compliance can lead to legal action and fines, which can be substantial depending on the nature of the violation.
California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA)
The CCPA grants California residents rights regarding their personal information, including the right to know what data is collected and the right to delete it. If your business operates in California, your ATS must include features that allow candidates to exercise these rights. Non-compliance can result in fines of up to $7,500 per violation.
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
Although GDPR is an EU regulation, it affects U.S. companies that process the personal data of EU citizens. Your ATS must include functionalities that ensure compliance, such as data encryption and the ability to delete personal data upon request. Non-compliance can lead to fines of up to €20 million or 4% of annual global turnover, whichever is higher.
What to Look For
EEOC-compliant application tracking
Your ATS must have features that ensure compliance with EEOC guidelines, such as anonymizing applicant data to reduce bias in the hiring process. Verify that the software can generate reports demonstrating compliance with equal opportunity hiring practices. This is critical to avoid potential legal challenges and penalties.
FCRA-compliant background check integration
Ensure your ATS includes an integrated background check feature that complies with FCRA requirements. This should involve obtaining candidate consent and providing them with a copy of the report if adverse action is taken. Confirm with vendors that their solution can handle these requirements to mitigate legal risks.
ADA accommodation request management
Your ATS should facilitate the management of accommodation requests from candidates with disabilities. This includes features that allow candidates to indicate their needs and for recruiters to track and respond to these requests. Verify that the vendor's solution supports this functionality to ensure compliance with the ADA.
CCPA data privacy features
If your business operates in California, your ATS must include features that comply with the CCPA, such as the ability to provide candidates with access to their personal data and options to delete it. Confirm with vendors that their software can accommodate these requirements to avoid hefty fines.
GDPR compliance tools
For U.S. companies dealing with EU citizens' data, your ATS must have built-in GDPR compliance tools, such as data encryption and the ability to manage data deletion requests. Ensure that vendors can demonstrate how their software meets these stringent requirements to avoid significant penalties.
Common mistake: A common mistake U.S. businesses make when purchasing Applicant Tracking System (ATS) software is failing to verify FCRA compliance. Many vendors claim to support background checks but lack the necessary features to ensure compliance, exposing your business to legal risks and potential fines. Before signing any contract, confirm that the ATS can manage background checks in accordance with FCRA requirements to protect your business from costly penalties.
Compliance Checklist
Does your ATS support EEOC-compliant application tracking?
This question is crucial because compliance with EEOC guidelines protects your business from discrimination claims. If the vendor answers no, you should consider alternatives that prioritize compliance.
Can your ATS integrate with FCRA-compliant background check services?
This is important for ensuring that your hiring process adheres to FCRA regulations. A negative response means you may need to seek a vendor that offers compliant background check integration.
Does your ATS have features for managing ADA accommodation requests?
This feature is essential for compliance with the ADA. If the vendor cannot provide this functionality, you risk non-compliance and potential legal issues.
Is your ATS capable of handling CCPA data privacy requests?
Understanding how your ATS manages personal data is vital for compliance with the CCPA. If the vendor cannot confirm this capability, it may expose your business to fines.
Does your ATS include GDPR compliance features?
For businesses dealing with EU data, GDPR compliance is non-negotiable. A no answer indicates a need to find a vendor that can ensure compliance.
Questions to Ask Vendors
- Does your ATS provide EEOC-compliant application tracking features?
- How does your software integrate with FCRA-compliant background check services?
- Can your ATS manage ADA accommodation requests effectively?
- What features does your ATS offer for CCPA compliance?
- How does your ATS ensure GDPR compliance for U.S. companies handling EU data?
Frequently Asked Questions
In the United States, your Applicant Tracking System (ATS) must comply with several key regulations, including the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) guidelines, the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These regulations require your ATS to facilitate non-discriminatory hiring practices, manage background checks properly, and accommodate candidates with disabilities. To ensure compliance, choose an ATS that includes features specifically designed to meet these legal requirements.
To ensure your Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is compliant with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), verify that it includes features for obtaining candidate consent before conducting background checks and provides candidates with a copy of the report if adverse action is taken. Additionally, the ATS should allow candidates to dispute inaccuracies in their reports. Non-compliance can lead to fines of up to $2,500 per violation, making it essential to confirm these functionalities with your vendor.
When selecting an Applicant Tracking System (ATS), look for features that facilitate the management of accommodation requests from candidates with disabilities. This includes functionalities that allow candidates to indicate their needs and for recruiters to track and respond to these requests. Ensuring your ATS supports these features is critical for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and to avoid potential legal challenges.
Yes, if your business operates in California, your Applicant Tracking System (ATS) must comply with the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA). This includes features that allow candidates to access their personal data and request its deletion. Non-compliance can result in fines of up to $7,500 per violation, so it's crucial to confirm that your ATS includes these capabilities.
Penalties for non-compliance with Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) regulations can include fines, legal action, and damage to your company's reputation. The specific penalties vary based on the severity of the violation, but they can result in significant financial liabilities. To mitigate these risks, ensure your Applicant Tracking System (ATS) includes features that support compliance with EEOC guidelines.
An ATS can streamline the hiring process for small businesses by automating tasks like resume screening and interview scheduling, saving time and reducing administrative burdens. Additionally, it helps ensure compliance with hiring regulations and improves the candidate experience, making it easier to attract top talent.
The cost of an ATS in the U.S. can vary widely, typically ranging from $50 to $500 per month, depending on features and the number of users. Some providers offer pay-per-use models or tiered pricing based on the number of job postings or applicants, so it's essential to evaluate your specific needs.
An effective ATS should integrate with job boards, social media platforms, and HR software like payroll and onboarding systems. This allows for seamless data transfer, enhances recruitment visibility, and improves overall efficiency in the hiring process.
Yes, an ATS can enhance diversity hiring by allowing recruiters to anonymize resumes and implement structured interview processes, reducing bias. Furthermore, many ATS solutions include features to track diversity metrics, helping organizations assess and improve their hiring practices.
The implementation timeline for an ATS can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the system and the size of the organization. Factors such as data migration, user training, and system customization will influence how quickly the ATS can be fully operational.
Yes, features such as audit trails, customizable reporting, and data storage compliance can aid in handling compliance audits. These functionalities help track hiring decisions and applicant data, ensuring that your recruitment practices align with legal requirements.
To measure the ROI of your ATS, consider metrics such as time-to-hire, cost-per-hire, and the quality of hire. Tracking these metrics before and after implementing the ATS will provide insights into efficiency gains and overall impact on your recruitment strategy.
Common challenges include data migration issues, user resistance, and integrating the new ATS with existing HR systems. To mitigate these challenges, it’s essential to have a clear transition plan, provide adequate training for users, and ensure compatibility with current tools.
Your ATS should assist in compliance with labor laws such as the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) guidelines. Ensuring that your ATS includes features for tracking compliance is critical to avoid legal pitfalls.
To support remote hiring, your ATS should offer features such as video interviewing, collaborative feedback tools, and mobile access for both recruiters and candidates. This flexibility allows for a seamless hiring experience, regardless of location.
What Are the Top 5 ATS Systems?
The honest answer to "what do people use" is review volume, which across these 10 tools ranges from 309 verified reviews to 10,388 verified reviews. Set the bar at twice the median of 935 and only one tool clears it: ZipRecruiter on 10,388. Workable (309) is still building a review base, so weigh its score against a reference call rather than on its own.
View Applicant Tracking System (ATS) by Country
Disclaimer: This research has been collated from a variety of authoritative sources. We welcome your feedback at [email protected].