Yearly Archives: 2013

Each state has its own unemployment tax system and each are slightly different but they generally operate within a similar framework.  Employers are assessed a tax that goes into a fund that is used to pay for unemployment claims.  The tax rate each business is assigned varies according to two primary elements.  First, how much your former employees take out of the general fund in the form of Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits.  The second is […]

Effective January 1, 2014, automatic gratuities in the hospitality industry (for example, an automatic 18% tip for parties of six or more) will be treated by the IRS as service charges rather than tips.   Unlike optional tips which the employee bears the responsibility of reporting, these service charges will be viewed as wages and the employer will be responsible for reporting them. Additionally, employers should be aware that any such service charges will be […]

There are changes coming to the hazard communication rules.  These changes focus on how risks associated with chemical hazards in the workplace are conveyed to employees.  The new communication standard is based on the Globally Harmonized System (GHS).  As the name indicates, GHS is meant to be universally adopted to simplify hazard communication.  These changes go into effect for employers on December 1, 2013.   OSHA’s training on the upcoming changes are broken down into […]

Wanting to hire an applicant but not sure if you should put them in a position of trust due to a criminal background check?  (For example, a theft conviction would normally bar employment where an employee would handle cash.) There is an option with the no cost Federal Bonding Program.  A bond is provided for 6 months at no cost.  After that period there is an option to purchase a bond from Travelers Insurance. The […]

Having a hard time finding or keeping great employees? Offering an appropriate rate of pay is key to finding and keeping great employees. Keep losing great employees to the competition; or worse, no one is applying for your job openings? Reviewing the rate of pay may be a good place to start. Make sure the rate offered is in an appropriate range to target the employee you are looking to land. If you want an […]

How to Document Be timely – don’t try to “build a case” after the fact; Stick to the facts; What you see or hear – what would be on a video tape; Include the full story; be accurate and specific; If handwritten, write legibly in ink; Sign and date all documents; Document consistently. Documentation Outline State the job performance problem – be specific.     What is the problem? When did it first occur?     How […]