Update: OSHA ETS Mandate Date Set For Jan 4!
Workers at larger businesses will have to get vaccinated against COVID-19 by January 4, 2022 or face regular testing under new federal rules. Read more about this Emergency Temporary Standard from OSHA.
MyHRBuzz Podcast | Feb 09, 2021
Now Streaming! MyHRBuzz…The Podcast
The MyHRBuzz Podcast tackles topics relevant to the world of Human Resources, ranging from Federal compliance to workplace culture.
Learn MoreAre Your Background Checks FCRA Truly Compliant? A Helpful Overview.
FCRA Compliance for Employers Using Consumer Background Checks As the end of the year comes to a close, many businesses will be running their annual background checks. This overview will outline the steps an employer must take to comply with the FCRA. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is a federal law that restricts how […]
Attraction and Retention Amid President Biden’s Vaccine Mandates
President Biden recently directed the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to draft a new emergency rule requiring businesses with 100 or more employees to ensure workers are either fully vaccinated or tested for COVID-19 weekly. Read an overview of the impending rule, talent market implications, and employer considerations for employee attraction and retention.
2021 ACA Violations & Penalties For Employers
Failing to comply with the ACA’s requirements can cause severe consequences for an employer. This ACA Overview (PDF) summarizes the penalties and excise taxes that may be triggered by an ACA violation. Click the document below to enlarge and print.
EEOC Adds FAQs Addressing Religious Objections to COVID-19 Vaccine Mandates
On Oct. 25, 2021, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) issued additional answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about how employers should comply with Title VII of the federal Civil Rights Act. The new FAQs address questions about religious objections to employer COVID-19 vaccine requirements. They were added to the FAQs that the EEOC initially issued on March 18, 2020, and then updated several times. The last major update to this guidance was made in May 2021. The EEOC also made minor updates to some of the Q&As on Oct. 13, 2021.This Compliance Bulletin contains the EEOC’s updated FAQs in full.
2022 ACA Compliance Overview
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has made a number of significant changes to group health plans since the law was enacted in 2010. Since then, several changes have been made to various ACA requirements that employers and plan sponsors should be aware of. It is important for employers to periodically review their benefit plans in order to maintain compliance with these various requirements.
OSHA Warns Several States to Adopt a COVID-19 Health Care ETS
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) published the health care COVID-19 emergency temporary standard (ETS) in June 2021. Since then, three of the 21 states with their own state plans have not adopted the federal standard or developed their own equivalent. The three states are Arizona, South Carolina and Utah. Under the OSH Act, […]
Cal/OSHA Amends Notice and Reporting Requirements for COVID-19
On Oct. 5, 2021, California approved Assembly Bill 654 (AB 654) to amend California’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Cal/OSHA) COVID-19 notice and reporting regulations. The bill became effective upon adoption on Oct. 5, 2021. The bill requires employers to give notice of COVID-19 outbreaks to: Qualifying individuals or employees exposed to qualifying individuals within one business day; […]
Partner Podcast: Federal Vaccine Mandates, Discussed With Journey Payroll
Federal Employers Receive Deadline Of November 22 To Be Vaccinated
Breaking Down The November 22 Deadline By Vaccination October 15, 2021 – President Joe Biden announced, on Sept. 9, that OSHA would issue an ETS requiring covered businesses to mandate that their workers be vaccinated against the coronavirus or undergo weekly testing. Covered employers will also have to give workers paid time off to get […]
Signs That OSHA ETS, Vaccination Mandate Is Moving Forward
As OSHA Submits Draft of COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate ETS As Next Step Recently, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced that it submitted a draft of its emergency temporary standard (ETS) for private employers requiring mandatory COVID-19 testing or vaccination to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The ETS will require all businesses […]
Are You What Your Client Looks For In a Broker?
Do you know what your HR clients are looking for in a broker? We know employers are looking for more from their agents. While employers continue to rely on insurance agents for expert insurance provider advice, they are now looking for more help navigating the ever-changing workplace and shifting employee needs in order to create their own niche in their industry.
How At-Home COVID-19 Tests May Help The Employer.
FDA Authorizes New At-home Rapid Test for COVID-19 As an employer, within the workplace, we want to do all we can to prevent the spread or exposure from COVID-19. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new over-the-counter COVID-19 antigen test—the Flowflex COVID-19 Home Test from ACON Laboratories—to increase consumer access to testing during […]
COBRA Deadline Extension Relief Clarification IRS Notice 2021-58
More information on the COBRA deadline extension. IRS Notice 2021-58 clarifies the application of certain COBRA deadline extensions for electing COBRA coverage and paying COBRA premiums under prior relief that was issued as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak (“Emergency Relief”).
Understanding Forms 1095A, B & C For ACA Reporting
A number of changes were introduced to the health insurance marketplace with the passage of the ACA in 2010. From different reporting forms and health insurance plan requirements to the penalties imposed on employers for failing to comply with the Employer Mandate — The ACA created unique responsibilities for employers, health insurance carriers, and individuals alike. One of the ACA’s unique requirements from a reporting perspective relates to the different Forms 1095. The following information and take the confusion out of these forms.
All About Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements (ICHRAs)
An individual coverage HRA (ICHRA) is similar to an HRA—it uses funds from your employer to help pay for certain medical expenses. However, there are some important features of ICHRAs that you should understand.
Update On The Extension To Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC)
New Guidance on Claiming the Employee Retention Credit Although the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) is expiring at the end of 2021, there’s still time for eligible businesses to claim the credit, if they haven’t already. The ERTC, also referred to as the Employee Retention Credit (ERC), was created by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security […]
At-A-Glance Guidance For Employers In Preparation For Biden Vaccine Mandate
President Joe Biden’s latest COVID-19 vaccination and testing mandate is one of the federal government’s most aggressive efforts yet. What’s more, we know it will directly impact many private sector workforces as well as federal employees and contractors. For more on the OSHA Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) being proposed click HERE. We encourage you to […]
PPE Expenses are Reimbursable Under Health FSAs, HRAs and HSAs
In this article we talk about the fact that the recent IRS guidance provided that amounts paid by individuals for PPE—including masks, hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes used for the primary purpose of preventing the spread of COVID-19—are deductible medical expenses. Therefore, the amount you paid for the PPE that is not compensated for by insurance may be deductible as long as your total medical expenses are more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI).
FDA Authorizes Pfizer Booster
The FDA has authorized the Pfizer vaccine booster for vulnerable populations including people ages 65 and older.
2022 Open Enrollment Checklist
In addition, any changes to a health plan’s benefits for the 2022 plan year should be communicated to plan participants through an updated summary plan description (SPD) or a summary of material modifications (SMM). Health plan sponsors should also confirm that their open enrollment materials contain certain required participant notices, when applicable—for example, the summary […]
Preparing For Open Enrollment In This Second Pandemic Year
Will Remote Workers Affect Open Enrollment? Open enrollment will be here before you know it—and it’ll likely differ than those held in years past, especially for remote employees. Benefit offerings may be changing, and you may be enrolling virtually as a remote employee. As such, it’s essential to come prepared. To avoid last-minute headaches, familiarize […]
What Does the Broker Compensation Disclosure Rule Mean for Employers?
Transparency and shared expectations are gold standards of any successful business relationship. When it comes to a broker, employers should look for someone who keeps them informed about important issues related to their interests. In that spirit, this article discusses new compensation disclosure rules and sets expectations for the future. Broker Compensation Disclosure Rule The Consolidated […]
Surcharges For Nonvaccinated Individuals – Things To Consider
On Aug. 23, 2021, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) gave full approval to the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine (now marketed as Comirnaty) for individuals 16 years of age and older. As a result, many employers are exploring options related to COVID-19 vaccination status within their workforce, including whether to charge a premium surcharge for nonvaccinated […]
Podcast: OSHA Vaccination ETS & Important Guidance For Employers
Steps For Employers To Reduce Risk Prior To The OSHA Vaccination & Testing Mandate On Sept. 9, 2021, President Biden announced that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is developing an emergency temporary standard (ETS). The new ETS will require private-sector employers with 100 or more employees to ensure their workforce is fully vaccinated […]
Guidance For Employers In Anticipation Of OSHA’s New COVID-19 Vaccination & Testing Requirement
How employers should prepare for OSHA’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate including testing logistics, policies, and refusals.
OSHA Developing Private Sector Emergency Temporary Standard for COVID-19
Important Information OSHA’s ETS for employers with 100 or more employees will be required to: Ensure their employees are fully vaccinated; or require workers who remain unvaccinated to produce a negative test result weekly before coming to work. On Sept. 9, 2021, President Biden announced that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is developing an emergency […]
Podcast: The Importance Of Healthcare Specific Screening As You Hire During Covid-19 In The Healthcare Industry
In this short podcast, we talk candidly with background check expert, Kim Lewis, about hiring and screening for the healthcare industry – beyond just drug testing, including the big difference in the FBI database search vs. a more comprehensive advanced healthcare screening package and ongoing monitoring. Read more in our article HERE. Bookmarks: 1:38. Why is […]
POTUS signs an executive order for COVID-19 vaccination mandates for employers
President Biden to Mandate COVID-19 Vaccine for Federal Employees and Large Employers On Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021, President Joe Biden signed executive orders requiring federal workers and contractors to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Biden also directed the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to draft a new emergency rule requiring all businesses with 100 or […]
How To Communicate About The Vaccine With Employees
As employers plan to navigate the legal risks and logistics of employee vaccinations, this article explores what, how and when to communicate about COVID-19 vaccines with employees.
Early Is The New On-Time For ACA Reporting Preparation
It’s not too late to prepare for ACA filing and These Resources Can Help You Prepare for 2022 ACA Reporting. 2021 Affordable Care Act (ACA) Reporting is Due in Early 2022 The IRS has released draft 2021 versions of Forms 1094-C, 1095-C, 1094-B and 1095-B that employers will use in early 2022 to report under Internal Revenue Code Sections 6055 and […]
Podcast: It’s Not Over… Long-Haul Covid-19 Symptoms May Affect The Workplace
Introducing Long-Haul Covid. In this episode learn how this has been affecting the workplace. Did you know employees that have lingering COVID symptoms after testing negative can be protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act? Join Chris as he talks with John Yerger of MyHRConcierge about what employers should do when employees have these lingering symptoms.
Podcast: Vaccination Policy Know-How. All About Vaccination Policy For Employers
Protect yourself with a vaccination policy. Are you an employer struggling with how to communicate your COVID policies? Join Chris as he talks with John Yerger of MyHRConcierge about what you need to know about implementing a COVID vaccination policy. Read our supporting article as well. Click HERE. Bookmarks: 1:43 Do employers need a vaccination policy?3:08 Has […]
EEO-1 Deadline Extended Again To October 25, 2021
Employers now have even more extra time to submit equal employment opportunity (EEO-1) workforce data from 2019 and 2020, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced on Aug. 18, 2021. The 2019 and 2020 EEO-1 reports were previously due These reports were previously due by Aug. 23, 2021, which was an extension from a previous […]
COBRA’s ARPA Deadline September 30, 2021
The COBRA premium assistance provided under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) is coming to an end. Learn more about the requirements and deadlines coming on September 30, 2021.
Employers Deal With “Long-Haul Covid” And How It Affects The Workplace
We’re nearing the end of 2021 and we are beginning to see further effects of COVID-19 in those who have had the virus previously. As people begin to get back to work, we see that some have been affected by the COVID-19 virus with continuing symptoms. The CDC has begun to refer to this condition as having “long-haul covid.” As COVID “long-haulers” re-enter the workplace they may qualify for ADA accommodations.
With Or Without Vaccine, Delta Variant Creates Questions About Masking At Work
With a growing percentage of the United States population fully vaccinated against COVID-19, many localities and, in turn, employers, have eased mask mandates and policies. However, due to the spread of an emerging variant of coronavirus known as Delta, these policies may still need updating, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has now announced updates to its mask guidelines.
Booster Anyone? Third Vaccine Dose Available
Employer information about the third (booster) COVID-19 vaccine. On Thursday, August 12, 2021, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized a third vaccine dose for immunocompromised individuals—roughly 3% of Americans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Delta Variant Affect On Return-to-Work Mask Policies
With a growing percentage of the United States population fully vaccinated against COVID-19, many localities and, in turn, employers, have eased mask mandates and policies. However, due to the spread of an emerging variant of coronavirus known as Delta, these policies may still need updating, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has […]
4 Lessons Learned From Open Enrollment During the Pandemic
4 Lessons Learned From Open Enrollment During the Pandemic There’s no denying that the 2020 open enrollment season was unprecedented. It’s challenging enough most years to engage and educate employees to actively make decisions about their health care and other employer-sponsored benefits, and the prevalence of remote and hybrid workplaces added another level of complexity […]
Is There Something Good To Gain From All This Hiring?
You Could Be Eligible For Tax Credits. Under the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, the employee retention credit, a provision of the CARES Act, is available through June 30, 2021 to eligible employers who retained employees during the COVID-19 pandemic. The IRS issued guidance in early March for the credit as it relates to qualified […]
Receive A Tax Break During The Post- Pandemic Hiring Frenzy
Here’s how you could receive a tax break for hiring unemployed individuals. The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is a federal tax credit for hiring applicants from certain target groups who face significant barriers to employment—including individuals unemployed for 27 weeks or longer. With 9.5 million unemployed Americans in June, according to the Bureau of […]
Does Your Business Need Guidance About A Vaccination Policy?
While many are still undecided about being vaccinated, numbers for the COVID-19 Delta Variant are continuing to rise. As an employer, should there be a vaccination policy in your employee handbook? This article aims to clarify that whether an employer requires vaccines or makes them voluntary, including it as a clear policy within your handbook could save you great risk.
PPP Update: SBA Simplifies PPP Loan Forgiveness With New Direct Portal
New Direct Portal Makes PPP Forgiveness Easier The Small Business Administration (SBA) recently announced the opening of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Direct Forgiveness Portal, which is intended to simplify applications for loan forgiveness for the smallest PPP borrowers. The PPP, which was created in March 2020 by the $2 trillion Coronavirus Aid, Relief and […]
Podcast: Gender Identity Considerations In The Workplace
In this episode, Chris will talk with labor attorney Wendy Shelton, of Nippes Healy & Gault on the issue of Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) in regards specifically to gender identity and acknowledgment in the workplace. We look at ethical and legally compliant treatment of gender recognition in the workplace.
Do Your Work Crews Travel?
How to Prepare for Off-site Project Work—are Your Crews Ready? Late summer means hurricane season, where many weather emergencies will arise. Conditions can sometimes create a need for crews to deploy to other areas to help, and we want you to be prepared. Many industries see this as an opportunity and proper screening meeting the […]
Different Industries Will Have Different Screening Needs. Here’s The Scoop.
The transportation, distribution, manufacturing, and healthcare industries all have different employment needs, and balancing the demand for new hires and safety for these various industries is something companies are challenged by. With the influx of employee hiring in these industries in these post-pandemic times, the need for qualified and stable individuals remains a priority. […]
OSHA Revises Its COVID-19 National Emphasis Program
July, 2021 – On July 7, 2021, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) revised its national emphasis program (NEP) for COVID-19. The revised NEP adjusts the targeted industries to those most at risk for COVID-19 exposure but still includes health care and non-health care, such as meat and poultry processing. The original NEP was […]
The Wake Of The Covid Pandemic Continues To Shake Up Hiring For SMBs
As many Small Businesses (SMBs) re-open following the shutdowns caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the struggle continues due to the lack of workers to fill positions. A March survey by the National Federation of Independent Business found that 42% of owners had job openings that could not be filled, a record high. Ninety-one percent of those […]
Podcast: Unemployment Claims Post-COVID. Important Facts & Must-Have Documentation
In this episode, we talk with John Yerger of MyHRConcierge regarding ways to increase your success when contesting unemployment claims. We will review how to best document responses, procedures and other ways to ensure you are put in the best place to win your cases.
Protecting HR Teams From Burnout
Burnout is a commonly discussed issue these days—particularly while many workforces are still working from home amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Being isolated, stressed and overworked puts employees in a difficult position and can lead to increased burnout. Oftentimes, it’s HR’s responsibility to help employees cope with burnout and its contributing factors. However, in many cases, […]
EEOC Extends EEO-1 Deadline for 2019 and 2020 Data to Aug. 23
Employers now have some extra time to submit equal employment opportunity (EEO-1) workforce data from 2019 and 2020, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced on June 28, 2021. These reports were previously due by July 19, 2021. Employers now have until Aug. 23, 2021, to complete their submissions. The EEOC’s collection of this […]
The Wake Of The Covid Pandemic Continues To Shake Up SMBs As They Re-hire.
Challenges To Re-Staff Businesses Post-pandemic Continue As many Small Businesses (SMBs) re-open following the shut downs caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the struggle continues due to the lack of workers to fill positions. A March survey by the National Federation of Independent Business found that 42% of owners had job openings that could not be filled, […]
What Employers Should Consider When Moving to a Hybrid Work Model
The pandemic has resulted in thousands of employees working from their kitchen tables or living rooms instead of the workplace. However, as more Americans receive a COVID-19 vaccination and organizations develop or update their return-to-work plans, some employees may still be eager to continue working remotely even if just for a few days each week. […]
PCORI Fees Now Due August 2, 2021 Instead of July 31.
This alert is of interest to all employers that sponsor self-insured group health plans, including Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs). Employers that sponsor self-insured group health plans, including health reimbursement arrangements (HRAs) should keep in mind the upcoming July 31, 2021 deadline for paying fees that fund the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI). As background, the […]
Small Businesses Should Understand Form 5500
Understanding Form 5500 is important to businesses with retirement plans. Among the many fiduciary responsibilities that must be reported on the Form 5500, plan sponsors must deposit employees’ salary or wage deferrals into their accounts as soon as administratively feasible, but no later than the 15th business day of the month following the month in which […]
Preventing A Post-Covid “Turnover Tsunami”
The COVID-19 pandemic is finally getting under control. As more Americans get vaccinated, states are gradually lifting restrictions, and life is returning to pre-pandemic normalcy. Finally, individuals can get to the tasks they’ve been postponing for more than a year. Unfortunately for employers looking to retain employees, some employees are now ready to find new […]
He Said, She Said, We Said… Gender Sensitivity In The Workplace
Our workplace continues to change, with diversity and inclusivity in the forefront. One element of diversity, equity and inclusivity (DEI) is gender identity and acknowledgement of an employee’s preferred pronouns. More employees are entering the workplace with gender identities and expressions that are different than what we may expect when we discuss gender, creating a need for more understanding.
Podcast: How To Prevent Adverse Action Lawsuits With Proper Screening
Employers can protect themselves from adverse action with this information. In this episode, we welcome Kim Lewis, of MyHRScreens to discuss why adverse action is important to prevent costly and resource-draining adverse action litigation. By doing accurate and careful employee screening you can prevent costly mistakes.
Are Your Post-Covid Work Policies Up To Date?
Protect Your Workplace In A Post-Covid Time. 8 Policies To Review For New Post-Covid Office Norms Returning to in-person work is a top priority for many workplaces. As the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic lessens, employers are eager to get employees back in their buildings. But that comes with a series of complications. New policies, […]
EEOC Announces New Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Employment Resources
June 16, 2021 – The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has announced the release of new employment resources intended to educate employees, applicants and employers on the rights of all employees—including lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender workers—to be free from sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination in employment. These resources are not new EEOC guidance, […]
Attention Healthcare Employers: OSHA Issues COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standard for Health Care
OSHA Emergency Temporary Standards (ETS) On June 10, 2021, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced its COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standards (ETS). The ETS was developed to protect health care and health care support service workers from occupational exposure to COVID-19 in settings where people with COVID-19 are reasonably expected to be present. The […]
Employment Background Checks Protect Your Company From Adverse Action Lawsuits
Adverse employment action – in a nutshell. “Adverse action” isn’t a term most of us hear every day. An “adverse action” is either a denial of employment or any other decision that adversely affects any current or prospective employee. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires employers to provide a copy of the consumer report […]
Handling the Influx of Remote Work Requests
As the decision is made for employees to come back to the office, employees may begin to have remote work requests. Likewise, companies may be more accepting of those requests than prior to the pandemic. Some companies could even make their entire operations remote as a new way to manage facility costs.
Best Practices and Monitoring Remote Workflow
Monitoring Remote Workers Due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, more employees are working remotely than ever before. And, even as businesses begin to reopen across the country, remote work will likely remain popular for the foreseeable future. While remote work arrangements help keep employees healthy and safe in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, they […]
IRS Update: ACA Forms for 2021 Reporting
IRS Draft Forms For 2021 ACA Reporting Released The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) released draft 2021 forms for reporting under Internal Revenue Code (Code) Sections 6055 and 6056. 2021 draft Forms 1094-B and 1095-B are draft versions of forms that will be used by providers of minimum essential coverage (MEC), including self-insured plan sponsors that […]
Hiring After COVID-19 Shutdown Still Remains A Challenge
The Status Of Unemployment Benefits Is Changing The Hiring Forecast There continues to be an increase in the number of states planning to end enhanced unemployment benefits, which were made available due to the pandemic. So where does this all stand? We hope to shed some light on the current state of hiring and unemployment […]
Podcast: New Vaccine Mandate Q&A.
Can Employers Mandate Vaccination For Work? Many employers are struggling with whether they can mandate the COVID-19 vaccination for work. Employers Are confused as to what they can and can’t do as the COVID-19 becomes more prevalent and how to navigate new CDC guidance. Join us as we speak with Bill Gault with Nippes, Healy […]
Employers Should Be Careful Asking If An Employee Has Been Vaccinated.
May 27, 2021 – Now that many federal and state officials have relaxed COVID-19 safety rules for people who are fully vaccinated, employers may want to ask workers for proof of their COVID-19 vaccination status. But employers should be careful not to ask for more information than is necessary. According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity […]
Employee COVID-19 Vaccine Cards
May, 2021 – All adults in the United States are now eligible for COVID-19 vaccines. With vaccine distribution reaching the general public, a growing proportion of the workforce is now vaccinated. In turn, many of these vaccinated employees have also received a vaccine card. It’s worthwhile for employers to understand what COVID-19 vaccine cards are […]
More IRS Guidance on American Rescue Plan’s COBRA Subsidy
On May 18, 2021, the IRS issued Notice 2021-31, a guidance document on the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) subsidy for continuation health coverage under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985 (COBRA). The Notice discusses the background of the subsidy and includes 86 questions and answers (Q&As) about its application. A Quick Recap: […]
HHS Announces New Interpretation of Section 1557 Sex Discrimination
On May 10, 2021, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued a notice announcing that, effective immediately, it will now interpret and enforce the prohibitions on discrimination based on sex under Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to include: Discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation; and Discrimination on the basis […]
Socially Acceptable? Social Media Can Get You Hired, Or Fired!
Have you ever posted something on social media and then later regretted it? Most of the time, you can go back to delete it before anyone notices. Not everyone, however, is so lucky. Regardless of how many followers you have on social media, one wrong post and you could lose your job or be passed over for a new job. Many people from public-facing institutions and businesses have been sanctioned, demoted, suspended, or fired for inappropriate or concerning activity online in recent days.
Podcast: Never Overlook Social Media Screening
It is not unusual to peruse the social media of possible candidates, however, did you know there is an FCRA compliant way to do this? Performing social media screening correctly can mitigate adverse action legal troubles. The podcast below explains more on this trending topic.
Hiring Frenzy Post Pandemic
Don’t Let The Rush To Staff Up Affect The Quality Of Your Next Hire. The Covid-19 pandemic wreaked havoc on the workplace and now we are seeing an influx in job needs and hiring. What will this look like for this next season of reopening? It is unsure. We know restaurants and other small businesses […]
Mental Health Awareness Month of May
May is Mental Health Awareness month and a good month to reflect on the needs of our employees from a mental standpoint. The past year has been hard on us in many ways, but it is important to acknowledge the challenge that the COVID-19 pandemic has posed on us mentally. Many employees may have psychiatric […]
Post-Pandemic HR Fatigue Is Setting In
Burnout is a commonly discussed issue these days—particularly while many workforces are still working from home amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Being isolated, stressed and overworked puts employees in a difficult position and can lead to increased burnout. Oftentimes, its HR’s responsibility to help employees cope with burnout and its contributing factors.
IRS Issues Employer Resources on FFCRA Leave Tax Credits
The IRS has released new resources explaining the tax credits available for employers who opt to provide paid family leave and paid sick leave under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) and the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) through Sept. 30, 2021. The new resources consist of a fact sheet and a “snapshot” document […]
New Vaccination Tax Credit for SMBs
President Biden announced a paid leave tax credit for small- and medium-sized businesses. This credit will allow eligible employers to fully offset the cost of paid leave for employees to get vaccinated and recover from any after-effects of the vaccination.
Employee Harrassment Should Be Taken Seriously
EEOC Harassment Findings and Recommendations for Employers According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), harassment is a form of employment discrimination that violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Harassment is unwelcome conduct that is based on race, color, […]
Continuous Screening – What Employers Need To Know…
Getting Prepared – What Employers Need to Know Before Implementing Continuous Screening Continuous employee screening, sometimes known as continuous employee monitoring or “infinity screening,” is the practice of conducting criminal background checks and drug tests for existing employees on a regular or intermittent schedule. Some companies, especially high-volume, high turnover, or those who employ gig […]
More Employers Consider Vaccine Policies
As U.S. vaccination numbers rise,employers consider vaccination policies The vaccine effort in the United States has ramped up nicely. Recently we have seen dispersion as high as 2.5 million a day. The federal government will send out 27 million doses of vaccine soon — so the challenges of vaccination are going to change rapidly. The rapidly expanding vaccine […]
2021 IRS Employee Retention Credit Changes/Updates
On April 2, 2021, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) published Notice 2021-23 to provide guidance for employers claiming the employee retention credit (ERC) for the first two quarters of 2021. The ERC was originally created by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), and has since been modified and extended by other […]
Employees May Resist In-Office Work Transition
Managers may be running into a common problem as employers advance their reopening plans: employees resisting transitioning back to working in an office full-time. Before the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the merits and pitfalls of working remotely were often debated. As states went into lockdown to help stop the spread of the coronavirus, many workforces were […]
Update: DOL Model Notices
DOL Issues Model Notices, FAQs for COBRA Subsidy in the ARPA On April 7, 2021, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) issued FAQs and model notices for the COBRA premium assistance provisions of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The ARPA provides a 100% subsidy for employer-sponsored group health insurance continued under COBRA and similar […]
California Labor Law Poster Changes
Update Your California and Federal Workplace Labor Law Posters New Labor Law Poster Changes FFCRA Paid Time Off Law: Covered Employees in the public or private sector who work for employers with more than 25 employees are entitled to up to 80 hours of COVID-19 related sick leave from January 1, 2021 through September, 2021, […]
EEOC Announces 2021 EEO-1 Reporting
The portal for private-sector employers to submit equal employment opportunity (EEO-1) workforce data from 2019 and 2020 will open on April 26, 2021, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced March 29, 2021. The agency also announced that the deadline for submitting 2019 and 2020 EEO-1 data is July 19, 2021. This data collection was previously delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
IRS Extends 2021 Tax Deadlines
Ongoing Pandemic Affects Tax Deadline On March 29, 2021, the Internal Revenue Service issued Notice 2021-21, which extends tax deadlines for filing Form 1040 series returns and other deadlines to May 17, 2021. The Notice, issued as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, follows a prior IRS extension (also to May 17, 2021) of […]
Congress Passes Extention of the PPP
PPP Extension moves beyond March 31. Congress has passed the PPP Extension Act of 2021, a 60-day extension of the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Payment Protection Program (PPP), which was set to expire on March 31. The bill will be sent to President Joe Biden shortly, who is expected to sign the extension before […]
Let us Help! 2021 COBRA Keeps Changing
Let MyHRConcierge keep you in compliance with the New ARPA COBRA Requirements.
President Biden Extends ACA Special Enrollment Period
ACA Special Enrollment Period Into August President Joe Biden’s administration recently extended access to the Special Enrollment Period (SEP) for the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to Aug. 15, from the previously announced end date of May 15. This direction comes after the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) opened this SEP for […]
When “John Smith” Is The Wrong “John Smith”- Avoid Adverse Action Lawsuits
Why A Thorough Background Check Is Better than a Rush Job. There are many reasons why employees come and go, and in the rush of a competitive hiring climate, it is important that you get the proper background check, with a company that will get you the results as quickly as possible while following through […]
The ARPA Act Affects COBRA Subsidy Provisions
The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), signed into law March 11, 2021, provides a 100% subsidy of premiums for employer-sponsored group health insurance continued under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1986 (COBRA) and similar state continuation of coverage (mini-COBRA) programs.
The American Rescue Plan
The $1.9 trillion relief bill, known as the American Rescue Plan, has passed Congress and has been signed by President Biden. Highlights of the bill include extended unemployment benefits, direct checks to individuals and more.
2021 Employee Wellness Trends To Watch
Recovering From 2020 in the Workplace After a year that was turned upside down by the COVID-19 pandemic, many aspects of the workplace have changed, including employer-sponsored wellness programs. Prior to the pandemic, employers were already making a shift to the way they viewed and implemented wellness initiatives at their organization. Some of these changes […]
CDC Guidance For Vaccinated People.
CDC Issues Long-awaited Guidance for Fully Vaccinated People The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released new guidance for people who have been fully vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine. Such individuals have been given the go-ahead to resume many activities that have been on hold since the beginning of the pandemic. What’s Changed […]
Podcast: Are You Eligible For Employee Retention Tax Credits?
Under the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, the employee retention credit, a provision of the CARES Act, is available through June 30, 2021 to eligible employers who retained employees during the COVID-19 pandemic. The IRS issued guidance in early March for the credit as it relates to qualified wages paid before Dec. 31, 2020. Find out more about this in this detailed article and Podcast.
House Passes $1.9 Trillion COVID-19 Economic Relief Bill
(Updated information will continue to be provided as details are made public.) The House of Representatives has passed its version of President Joe Biden’s proposed stimulus bill, which includes extended unemployment benefits, direct checks to individuals and more. The bill is now with the Senate, where some provisions will likely change. Democrats hope to pass […]
Biden Alters PPP To Benefit Smaller Busineses
The Biden administration recently announced a 14-day period of the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Payment Protection Program (PPP) when only businesses with fewer than 20 employees can apply for relief.
Updated IRS FAQs on Form W-4
The IRS released a new Form W-4 on December 5, 2020. All of your employees must complete this form, the Employee’s Withholding Certificate, in order to begin employment. We answer some frequently asked questions for employers as well as employees about the new form.