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 More
Affordable Care Act | Oct 23, 2020

Final Forms and Instructions for 2020 ACA Reporting

Final Forms and Instructions for 2020 ACA Reporting Released The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) released final 2020 forms and instructions for reporting under Internal Revenue Code (Code) Sections 6055 and 6056. 2020 Form 1094-B and Form 1095-B (and related instructions) will be used by providers of minimum essential coverage (MEC), including self-insured plan sponsors that […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Oct 12, 2020

HHS Confirms COVID-19 Still A Health Emergency

HHS Renews COVID-19 Public Health Emergency On Oct. 2, 2020, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) renewed its determination that a public health emergency exists as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, effective Oct. 23, 2020. This public health emergency, originally declared to have existed as of Jan. 27, 2020, was previously […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Oct 12, 2020

COVID-19 Update: PPP Loan Forgiveness For Small Loans

SBA Announces Simpler PPP Loan Forgiveness for Smaller Loans The Small Business Administration (SBA) and the U.S. Department of Treasury (Treasury) recently released a simpler Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loan Forgiveness Application Form 3508S and instructions. This updated, simple two-page application is for borrowers of $50,000 or less and is not for use by borrowers […]

Read more

Affordable Care Act | Oct 09, 2020

A Helpful 2021 ACA Compliance Checklist

Affordable Care Act: 2021 Compliance Checklist The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has made a number of significant changes to group health plans since the law was enacted in 2010. Since that time, a number of changes have been made to various ACA requirements that employers and plan sponsors should be aware of. It is important […]

Read more

IRS Updates | Oct 06, 2020

IRS Relief for 2020 ACA Reporting

Details on IRS Transition Relief for 2020 ACA Reporting On Oct. 2, 2020, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issued Notice 2020-76 to: Extend the due date for furnishing forms under Sections 6055 and 6056 for 2020 from Feb. 1, 2021, to March 2, 2021; and Provide a final extension of good-faith transition relief from penalties […]

Read more

HR Life and Wellness | Sep 29, 2020

California Anti-Harassment Training Deadline for 2021

Many employers put off the training in early 2020, due to COVID-19 stay-at-home orders and hoped by summer they could reschedule. Because in-person training continues to be difficult, many employers thought the governor might further extend the deadline. This is not the case. The deadline still stands, steadfast as January 1, 2021.

Read more

Employment Screening | Sep 28, 2020

Why A Fast Employee Screening Turnaround Matters!

Don’t risk a good candidate to slow screening turnaround. Employee screening is a key focus area for HR professionals to ensure they protect their company and hire the best employees. Fast employee screening turnaround can be the difference between hiring a candidate or losing them to a competitor. You can’t afford to lose good candidates. […]

Read more

Federal Law Updates | Sep 28, 2020

California Update on Family and Medical Leave

California Expands Family and Medical Leave Under the CFRA Effective Jan. 1, 2021, amendments to the California Family Rights Act (CFRA) expand the law’s leave requirements to cover employers with at least five employees, provide new grounds for leave and remove leave limits. Explaining the CFRA The CFRA provides 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave […]

Read more

Affordable Care Act | Sep 25, 2020

Supreme Court Vacancy May Affect ACA Litigation

On Sept. 18, 2020, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg passed away at the age of 87. Whether the Court vacancy created by Justice Ginsburg’s death should be filled prior to the November election is the subject of much controversy. Under federal law, the President is responsible for nominating a new Supreme Court Justice […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Sep 23, 2020

Growing Tired of The Pandemic

Combating Pandemic Fatigue An unintentional phenomenon is on the rise—pandemic fatigue. Many people are tired of staying at home and want to be the social creatures they inherently are. In short, a lot of people want their “normal” back. Pandemic fatigue occurs when people show low motivation or energy to comply with safety guidelines. In […]

Read more

Federal Law Updates | Sep 21, 2020

Verification of I-9 extended into November for some

Remote Verification of Form I-9 Documents Extended to November 19 Because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is allowing employers that are operating remotely to conduct a remote verification of approved Form I-9 documents. On Sept. 15, 2020, DHS extended yet again this exemption for an additional 60 days. […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Sep 15, 2020

DOL Revises FFCRA Regulations

DOL Revises FFCRA Regulations in Response to Court Decision The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has issued revisions to regulations that implement the paid sick leave and expanded family and medical leave provisions of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA). The revisions were issued in response to a New York federal court decision that […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Sep 11, 2020

Pandemic leading to struggles and substance abuse

Substance Abuse Among the Coronavirus Pandemic Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, public health officials have cautioned the public about the potential negative mental health effects caused by these uncertain times. Even though staying at home, self-quarantining or isolating when necessary, and social distancing are necessary for preventing the spread of COVID-19, these actions […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Sep 01, 2020

What Records To Keep – FFCRA

What records do I need to keep when my employee takes paid sick leave or expanded family and medical leave? Regardless of whether you grant or deny a request for paid sick leave or expanded family and medical leave, you must document the following: The name of your employee requesting leave; The date(s) for which […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Aug 31, 2020

Recruiting and screening have gone virtual during COVID-19.  

Are the days of face to face interviews gone? So much has changed in the job market since COVID-19 arrived. In the area of recruiting, both recruiters and candidates have been forced to adapt to virtual platforms for interviewing, and even going through the complete hiring process from home. Many companies are unexpectedly finding that hiring […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Aug 27, 2020

Updated CDC Information for Quarantine After Exposure to COVID-19

As the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues, employers are discerning appropriate actions to prioritize health and safety within their workplace. Organizations are responsible for protecting the health of their employees, which can include recommending self-quarantine to employees who have been exposed to COVID-19. An exposure to COVID-19 may take place within the workplace, or an employee […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Aug 19, 2020

Form I-9 Extended Another 30 days!

Form I-9 Requirements FlexibilityExtended Past August 18 The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) announced an extension of the flexibility in complying with requirements related to Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, due to COVID-19. This temporary guidance was set to expire August 18. Because of ongoing precautions related to […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Aug 18, 2020

DOL Reveals Revised FMLA forms

The Department of Labor (DOL) revised Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) forms this summer. Extensive changes have been made that require more specific information in notices and medical certifications. The use of the forms is optional as many employers create their own. It is important to note that additional changes to the forms could be […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Aug 17, 2020

COVID-19 Brings Unemployment Related Scams

Unemployment Scams The presence of unemployment-related scams has grown in the wake of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Current unemployment scams include both fraudulent claims and unemployment-related phishing attempts. As many employers are currently dealing with the reality of a high amount of unemployment claims, organizations can take steps to prepare for fraudulent activity and to […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Aug 11, 2020

More Relief in Executive Order By Trump

President Trump Signs Executive Order on Pandemic Relief President Donald Trump recently signed an executive order and three memorandums to address pandemic relief in response to the ongoing impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. After negotiations for a relief package between the White House and lawmakers collapsed, the executive actions extend pandemic unemployment benefits, student […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Aug 07, 2020

To Quarantine Or Not When Exposed Refresher

With Schools Starting Back, An Update About Quarantining When Exposed To COVID-19 If Your Child Becomes Exposed This article compiles important information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Visit cdc.gov/covid-19 for more information. We know that it is a tense time as we get into yet another month with COVID-19 sheltering and […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Aug 05, 2020

Open Enrollment May Feel Different Among 2020 Pandemic

Post COVID-19:  Preparing for an Unprecedented Open Enrollment Period Open enrollment following the COVID-19 pandemic will be unlike any other in recent memory. Many organizations are still trying to recover from extended closures and maintain safe working environments—open enrollment is the last thing on their minds. Yet, procrastinating on enrollment planning can actually cause more […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Aug 03, 2020

COVID-19: Supporting Caregiving Responsibilities

Coronavirus has created a unique and challenging caregiving situation for many. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, day cares and schools shut their doors. Months later, child care centers remain closed in many parts of the country, which means that parents are tasked with juggling caregiving and work responsibilities. In fact, according to a survey […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Jul 27, 2020

Who Should Continue to Work From Home?

Deciding Who Should Continue to Work From Home During the COVID-19 Pandemic As businesses across the country continue reopening and the threat of a second wave of COVID-19 cases looms, employers are facing difficult decisions regarding work-from-home arrangements. Some employers are opting to extend work-from-home arrangements until next year, others are asking all employees to […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Jul 27, 2020

COVID-19 Question: Employee Exposed! Is It Too Late?

What should I do if I find out several days later, after an employee worked, they were diagnosed with COVID-19?It can happen… an employee means well, and keeps information to themselves, or delays testing and dismisses symptoms only to find out they are COVID-19 positive. Here is what the CDC recommends.

Read more

COVID-19 | Jul 27, 2020

COVID-19 Forces HR To Adjust

5 Ways COVID-19 Is Reshaping HR The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has upended the entire world, it seems. With fluctuating infection rates and conflicting official guidance, organizations will need to adapt quickly if they want to succeed in the post-coronavirus landscape. HR teams stand at the forefront of these efforts. For years, HR departments have been […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Jul 24, 2020

Business Hiring Process Reflects COVID-19 Safety

Hiring During COVID-19 Safety Mandates The coronavirus (COVID-19) is continuing to affect the world and many businesses are taking significant measures to mitigate the spread of the disease, including cancelling major conferences, enforcing employee travel bans, and encouraging employees to work from home. As the numbers increase in many areas, employers continue to take steps to ensure the safety […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Jul 21, 2020

New Q&As on COVID-19 Workplace Laws

DOL Releases More Q&As on Workplace Laws and COVID-19 Pandemic On July 20, 2020, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced the agency’s publication of additional guidance on applying federal employment laws in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The guidance is in the form of questions and answers added to sets of Q&As the […]

Read more

IRS Updates | Jul 13, 2020

On W-2 Employers Must Report Pay for FFCRA Leave

Employers are required to report the amount of qualified sick and family leave wages paid to employees under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) on Form W-2, according to guidance from the IRS and the U.S. Treasury Department. The guidance was provided in Notice 2020-54, issued by the agencies on July 8, 2020.

Read more

COVID-19 | Jul 06, 2020

Is this COVID-19 Case Work-related?

The COVID-19 pandemic is widespread across the country, and it’s likely that employers may be faced with the difficult situation of responding to an employee’s positive diagnosis and determining whether their illness is work-related. Before making any decisions, employers should consult legal counsel to ensure compliance with all applicable laws.

Read more

COVID-19 | Jul 02, 2020

Deadline to apply for PPP extended through August 8.

Congress has passed legislation to extend the application deadline for a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan through Aug. 8, 2020. Prior to the extension, the deadline to apply for these funds was June 30, 2020. The extension enables eligible small businesses to apply for funding for five more weeks. The legislation has been sent to President Trump, who is expected to sign the measure into law.

Read more

EEOC | Jul 02, 2020

Avoid these top mistakes made in screening of employees

Have you ever wished you knew something important before you made a mistake? Important parts of the hiring/re-hiring and management component of a company include background checks and screening. Being thorough about checking into your workforce and continually monitoring, can make a difference. Being diligent about screening can often help your business avoid complex HR […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Jul 01, 2020

What if employees protest ? Expectations.

Employer and employee expectations in protests All around the country we see protests continuing over racial injustice, so what are employers to do if workers are arrested for protesting? Another common question is, what if employees don’t show up for work? It is a good idea for employers to apply their attendance policies consistently, understand the […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Jun 30, 2020

COVID-19: DOL Helpful FFCRA Tool

DOL Launches Employee Tool for Assessing FFCRA Leave Eligibility The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has created an online tool to help workers determine whether they qualify for paid sick leave or expanded family and medical leave under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA). The tool works by posing a series of questions that […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Jun 24, 2020

EEOC Issued More COVID-19 Guidance

EEOC issues further Return-to-Work Guidance New Answers to Current Questions regarding return to work and COVID-19 On June 11, 2020, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) issued more guidance concerning COVID-19 and return to work. This article compiles some of the frequently asked questions (FAQs) from the new guidance. As a best practice, and in […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Jun 24, 2020

COVID-19 Forward: Questions about masks, distancing and more…

Workplace FAQ’s With OSHA Guidance As the national economy reopens, an unprecedented number of workers will be required to wear faces masks in the workplace for the first time. Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act (the Act), employers must provide a safe work environment for their workers. For many, this will include properly training […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Jun 23, 2020

COVID-19 Infographic: 7 Ways To Prevent Employment Claims

7 Ways To Prevent Employment Claims This helpful infographic lists a few examples of the most common types of claims that may arise as a result of COVID-19. Employers should be aware of these potential issues and proceed accordingly. We suggest sharing this graphic or posting it somewhere for reference. Click the image below to […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Jun 23, 2020

Cyber Criminals Seeking to Capitalize on Coronavirus

Cyber Criminals Taking Advantage of Pandemic Criminals prey on unfortunate circumstances, seeking to capitalize on victims during times of panic and hardship. Unfortunately, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is no exception. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, told individuals to be vigilant about scams related […]

Read more

Press Releases | Jun 22, 2020

Kim Lewis Adds Strength To Screening Team

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MyHRScreens™ Strengthens Team With An Expert Hire in Screening Services   Ridgeland, MS— June 23, 2020 — MyHRScreens™ is proud to announce and welcome Kim Lewis as Client Development Manager. MyHRScreens™ is a background check and screening company and is a sister company to MyHRConcierge®.  Lewis will develop and spearhead initiatives for […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Jun 18, 2020

SBA Releases EZ Forgiveness Application

The SBA’s Streamlined Loan Forgiveness Application The Small Business Administration (SBA) and Department of Treasury recently released a streamlined loan forgiveness application called the EZ Forgiveness Application. This newly released three-page EZ application is significantly shorter than the traditional loan forgiveness application and requires fewer calculations and less documentation than the full application. Who can […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Jun 17, 2020

Infographic: Preventing COVID-19 2nd Wave At Work

6 Ways For Your Business to Prevent a Second Wave Of Infection The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted states and regions in different ways. A second wave of cases may follow the same suit, affecting different regions at different times and in varying capacities. Similar to conducting a risk assessment for planning to reopen following the […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Jun 17, 2020

Pros & Cons of Remote Employees

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 […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Jun 16, 2020

A Second Wave? Prepare Your Business

Preparing for a Second Wave of COVID-19 Cases Even as stay-at-home orders and restrictions are lifted, daily operations won’t be business-as-usual for many across the country. The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is still going on, despite businesses reopening. Moreover, public health officials and experts are warning of a potential second wave of COVID-19 cases. Of course, […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Jun 15, 2020

New EEOC Employer Guidance on Coronavirus and the ADA

An Updated Q&A On EEOC Employer Guidance on Coronavirus and the ADA 1. QUESTION: Is an employee entitled to an accommodation under the ADA in order to avoid exposing a family member who is at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19 due to an underlying medical condition? ANSWER: No. Although the ADA prohibits discrimination […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Jun 10, 2020

Fostering Inclusivity at Work Post-Coronavirus

Diversity and inclusion in the workplace are not new concepts. However, as the threat of COVID-19 shifts, it’s important for businesses to not simply have a plan, but fully embrace those concepts. People have gained new and varied perspectives while living through and preparing to emerge from the pandemic. What Is Inclusion? Although often used […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Jun 08, 2020

Grocer and Food Industry COVID-19 Prevention and Care

Have a COVID-19 Health and Safety Plan Grocery and food retail establishment employers should have a COVID-19 health and safety plan to protect employees, following CDC Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers. This plan should be shared with you and your coworkers. Employers should: Reduce Transmission Among Employees Take steps to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 if […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Jun 04, 2020

Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Amended

Trump Signs Amendment to Paycheck Protection Program into Law Since being established as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act in March 2020, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) has been the subject of additional stimulus bills, legal guidance and interim final rules. In the latest development, Congress passed the Paycheck Protection Program […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Jun 03, 2020

COVID-19 Next Steps: 7 Ways To Prevent Employment Claims

Infographic: 7 Ways To Prevent Employment Claims As COVID-19 continues to spread throughout the United States, there has been a massive upheaval of the American workplace. Employers have found themselves drafting and implementing policies and procedures addressing a wide array of issues including remote work, layoffs, furloughs, pay cuts, workplace conditions and many more. Not […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Jun 03, 2020

An Update on State Employee Leave Requirements

States Update Employee Leave Requirements for Coronavirus States are increasingly enacting laws and issuing new rules and guidance on employee leave taken as a result of COVID-19. State actions on employee leave come in addition to paid employee leave required by the Families First Coronavirus Act passed by Congress. Key features of new laws and […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Jun 02, 2020

Recruiting Post-Coronavirus

Recruiting Post-Coronavirus Like most aspects of the workplace, recruiting norms have changed as organizations prepare their post-coronavirus plans. While unemployment rates remain high, many employers find themselves struggling to connect with the right candidates. Employers can boost their recruiting efforts in the current employment market by ensuring that their employer brand is resonating with those […]

Read more

COVID-19 | May 28, 2020

Conducting a Remote Layoff

Considerations For Conducting A Remote Layoff Conducting a layoff is never easy—and conducting a layoff virtually adds new challenges for employers. While difficult for both the employer and employees effected, employers can improve this process by utilizing best practices. Effective remote layoffs can ease this difficult time for laid-off employees, while avoiding risk for the […]

Read more

COVID-19 | May 28, 2020

Has COVID-19 Created A New Work-Life Balance?

Employers Learn More About Work-Life Balance The coronavirus pandemic has sparked one of the largest social experiments in history. Virtually overnight, businesses across the world have been forced to rethink how they operate. Decisions made during this uncertain period will resonate for years and may serve as the base for a new, remote lifestyle post-coronavirus. […]

Read more

COVID-19 | May 27, 2020

DOL Revises the Fluctuating Workweek Overtime Method

On May 20, 2020, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced a final rule that allows employers to pay bonuses or other incentive-based pay to salaried, nonexempt employees whose hours vary from week to week. The final rule clarifies that payments in addition to the fixed salary are compatible with the use of the fluctuating […]

Read more

COVID-19 | May 26, 2020

Handling the Influx of Remote Work Requests

Handling the Influx of Remote Work Requests 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 forced to go online and quickly adapt to a remote-only work environment. Now, as the pandemic evolves […]

Read more

COVID-19 | May 26, 2020

After COVID-19: The Payroll Landscape

Webinar On-Demand: The New Regulatory Landscape in 2020 The coronavirus outbreak has created many new challenges to the payroll tax business and operations. As we attempt to find reliable resources for updates, we want to share with you what we know regarding navigating through this ongoing crisis as it relates to payroll taxes. In this […]

Read more

COVID-19 | May 20, 2020

The Mental Side of COVID-19

Dealing with COVID-19 Stress and Anxiety If you’re feeling stressed and anxious during these uncertain times, you’re not alone. According to a recent Gallup poll, nearly 60% of Americans reported daily stress and worry due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted daily life and caused stress and anxiety for many. If […]

Read more

COVID-19 | May 15, 2020

COVID-19 Resource: Checklist – Back to Work

Back To Work Cleaning Checklist Amongst COVID-19 Workplace cleanliness is on our minds. Use this helpful, downloadable checklist to help prepare your workplace after the COVID-19 quarantine. Click on the image below to download. For more information regarding HR policies during the COVID-19 crisis, or other HR needs, contact MyHRConcierge at 1-855-538-6947 x.108 or email […]

Read more

COVID-19 | May 15, 2020

COVID-19 Infographic: Preparing Your Office Space

Consider These Practices When Heading Back To Work While we are all anxious to get back to a normal pace, things are still not quite normal. It is important for us to continue to be aware of personal space and cleanliness to mitigate continual spread of COVID-19 as we return to our offices.   For […]

Read more

COVID-19 | May 14, 2020

The COVID-19 Affect on Pre-Employment Screening

Adjusting to Screening Changes The coronavirus pandemic and its disease, COVID-19, have disrupted HR departments across the country. Essential tasks are now getting bogged down due to staffing shortages and shelter-in-place orders. This can make it even harder for the businesses still managing to operate during the pandemic, especially when it comes to hiring. Now […]

Read more

COVID-19 | May 12, 2020

On The Road Again… Or Are We?

Business Travel After COVID-19 Travel—for both business and leisure—worldwide has virtually come to a standstill during the coronavirus pandemic. At this point, nobody knows when it will come back. Whenever that time comes though, travel will certainly be different than it was before. Airports, airlines, hotels and car rental companies will likely be taking new […]

Read more

COVID-19 | May 08, 2020

EEOC Updates for COVID-19 and the ADA

EEOC Updates Employer Guidance on Coronavirus and the ADA On May 7, 2020, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) issued additional answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about how employers should comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) while also observing all applicable emergency workplace safety guidelines during the coronavirus pandemic. The new FAQs […]

Read more

COVID-19 | May 05, 2020

PDF Download: Return to Work Action Plan

Coronavirus Back to Work Action Plan for Small to Mid Sized Businesses As you navigate your way back and mitigate the risks of your return, this work action plan pdf can help to lay out some guidelines and things to consider for your business. Click the image below to view and download the PDF. For […]

Read more

COBRA | May 04, 2020

Updated Model COBRA Notices & Frequently Asked Questions

. WAU.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Issues New Model Notices for COBRA The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has issued new model notices for group health plan administrators to use to comply with COBRA notification requirements, the agency announced on May 1, 2020. Plan administrators are not required to use the updated model notices. However, […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Apr 24, 2020

Moving Forward Together After COVID-19

What does Working After COVID-19 Sheltering Look Like? There was no way to predict the change in the workplace landscape that would take place mid-March of 2020. As a small business owner, you not only feel financial threat and health fears but also all kinds of new learning, remote and virtual. There are pros and […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Apr 23, 2020

COVID-19 Next Steps: If Workers Refuse to Return

As we near a re-opening phase of the Coronavirus crisis, many workers are leery about stepping back into the workforce. Some essential workers are even refusing to come to work out of fear of contracting the coronavirus. It’s important for employers to think about the employees’ legal rights and health concerns as well as trying to meet the organizations’ business needs.

Read more

COVID-19 | Apr 22, 2020

COVID-19 Update: The newest financial aid bill

Senate Passes $484 Billion Coronavirus Relief Package On Tuesday, April 21, 2020, the U.S. Senate voted on and passed the newest coronavirus aid bill, which includes funding for small businesses, hospitals and coronavirus testing. This announcement comes almost two weeks after Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said that small businesses don’t need to worry about not […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Apr 21, 2020

Infographics to Share. CDC Guidance Essential Workers Exposed

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) gives some great guidance for • Discontinuing Isolation following a COVID-19 Diagnosis and • Those essential workers that have ben exposed to COVID-19 These Helpful Infographics can be printed and shared. Click on the images below.     For more information regarding HR policies during the COVID-19 crisis, COVID-19 […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Apr 20, 2020

COVID-19 Reality: Furlough vs. Layoff

Deciding whether to lay off or furlough employees is not an easy task. Employers must weigh the welfare of their employees against the financial realities of running a business. In these situations, transparency is key for a smooth transition.

Read more

COVID-19 | Apr 20, 2020

Navigating Risk On The Way Back to Business

Conducting a Risk Assessment Even after the government allows businesses to reopen, firms still need to determine if it makes sense to resume operations. Safely restarting your business won’t be as simple as unlocking the front door. Before reopening, businesses should perform a risk assessment to determine what steps must be taken. While the complexity […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Apr 20, 2020

What’s Next? The Road Back to Business

Reopening a Business After the Coronavirus Shutdown As the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues to have an unprecedented effect on daily life, many business owners are looking forward to the future and a return to normalcy. However, even when stay-at-home orders are lifted and nonessential businesses are allowed to resume operations, there’s a lot for organizations […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Apr 17, 2020

AVOID BURNOUT WHILE WORKING FROM HOME DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

We’re Still At it. Social Distancing and Teleworking Takes Its Toll For many workers, their new “normal” routine consists of getting out of bed and logging on to work. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has shifted the workplace from the office to kitchen tables and living rooms for thousands of employees. This shift to […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Apr 15, 2020

The Stress Is Real For The Workplace

Employee Stress Surrounding the Coronavirus Pandemic, Easing Into Uncertain Times As the number of confirmed cases  of Coronavirus increases daily, employers, employees and their families are experiencing immense uncertainty. As businesses across the country are temporarily closing, many aren’t able to compensate their employees during the closures. While this may not be the case for […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Apr 15, 2020

Essential Workers: I’ve Been Exposed, to COVID-19 Now What?

CDC Recommendations: What to do following a diagnosis or exposure On April 4, 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued guidance for discontinuing home isolation following a COVID-19 diagnosis. The CDC also issued guidance for what essential workers should do following exposure to COVID-19. CDC Guidance for Essential Workers Who Have Been […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Apr 14, 2020

COVID-19 IRS Deadline Extension Form 5500

IRS Notice 2020-23 extends the Form 5500 filing deadline for ERISA-covered retirement and welfare plans that have an original or extended filing deadline on or after April 1, 2020, and before July 15, 2020. These plans have until July 15, 2020, to file their Forms 5500.

Read more

COVID-19 | Apr 13, 2020

COVID-19: Get to know expanded unemployment benefits

Employers should become familiar with the expanded benefits available under the CARES Act and advise any workers who may qualify for them to apply through the UI agency of the state in which the workers were employed. Employers should also monitor DOL and applicable state websites for guidance on  how the benefits will be administered. […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Apr 09, 2020

COVID-19 UPDATE: More funding coming according to Mnuchin

Treasury Secretary Says More Funding Coming for Small Businesses In a press interview on Wednesday, April 8, 2020, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said that small businesses don’t need to worry about not being able to receive funding from the U.S. government in the wake of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. He added that the […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Apr 08, 2020

Businesses Impacted by COVID-19: Employee Retention Tax Credits

Is Your Business Eligible for Employee Retention Tax Credits Employers whose business has been financially impacted by COVID-19 may be eligible for an employee retention tax credit. The amount of the credit is 50% of qualifying wages paid, up to $10,000 in total. Employers can be reimbursed for the credit by reducing their payroll tax […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Apr 07, 2020

Leave Request Form – Emergency Paid Sick Leave Act

This form may be used by an employee to request paid sick leave. This form accommodates a new type of leave that can be used by an employee in the event they need to stay home in order to care for their child whose school or child care facility has been closed due to coronavirus […]

Read more

COVID-19 | Apr 06, 2020

ACA Compliance During COVID-19

The Look-back Measurement Method and COVID-19 The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires applicable large employers (ALEs) to offer affordable, minimum value health coverage to their full-time employees or possibly pay a penalty. This employer mandate is also known as the “employer shared responsibility” or “pay or play” rules. ALEs can use one of two methods […]

Read more