Category: Benefits and Compensation

This topic provides guidance on how to handle compensation issues in a way that attracts and retains the best talent and advances the strategic goals of your business. You get news and tips on what’s going on nationally and in the states, and updates on changes in regulations, possible governmental action, and emerging compensation trends.

Where There’s a Will, There’s a Way to Offer Additional Employee Perks

In today’s increasingly competitive job market, employers are continuously seeking ways to enhance employee benefits and attract top talent. While health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off are essential components of any benefits package, some companies are now offering a less conventional yet highly valuable perk: estate planning services. This benefit not only promotes […]

Why 2025 will be a Pivotal Year for Benefits

The relationship between employees and companies is in the middle of a fundamental transformation — and this transformation will only gain momentum in 2025. Employees are demanding to be treated as unique individuals with their own concerns, financial goals, and professional aspirations. They want holistic support that covers everything from work-life balance to financial well-being. […]

Agencies Issue Health Plan Guidance: Preventive Services, Contraception, Cybersecurity

Recently, the Departments of Health and Human Services (HHS), Labor (DOL), and Treasury proposed new regulations aimed at promoting access to contraception. Separately, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and DOL recently published additional pieces of guidance affecting health plans. Self-funded health plan sponsors in particular should review these proposed rules and recent notices and determine […]

Ask the Expert: Could Bereavement Leave Be Covered by the FMLA?

Question: An employee who has been approved for intermittent Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) leave to care for his mother is asking for two days off to bring his mother to his cousin’s funeral in another state. Would this also be covered under the FMLA? Answer: The employee may be covered under their FMLA […]

How Employers Can Empower Healthier Lives in 2025

Employer-sponsored healthcare has long been a highly valued benefit for over 60% of employees—and with good reason. Healthcare is expensive and can lead to financial hardship in the absence of a comprehensive, affordable health plan. Yet, navigating the U.S. healthcare system has become increasingly challenging for employees, leading to widespread frustration and lack of understanding […]

5 Ways FSAs Can Help Employees Save Money and Start the New Year in Good Health

During the holidays, when stress can run high and finances low, it’s more important than ever that employees understand how to use their flexible spending account (FSA). However, lack of awareness and understanding of what’s eligible can cause employees to leave FSA funds on the table at the end of the year. According to an […]

Pay Attention to Employer Considerations Following Wave of 401(k) Forfeiture Lawsuits

Over the past year, numerous employers and their 401(k) plan fiduciaries have faced lawsuits regarding how forfeited employer contributions to their 401(k) plan are used. This wave of lawsuits began approximately a year ago when an employees’ law firm filed putative class action lawsuits raising this novel claim in California federal courts against multiple large […]

Bar the door: Actionable Tips for Defending FMLA Claims

Good timing can mean the difference between success and failure, and waiting too late can cost you—as a transit employee discovered the hard way. Although this case comes from a different state, it’s still helpful when defending Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) claims in Texas. Chronic Serious Health Condition As a threshold matter under […]

Ask the Expert: How Far Does the FMLA’s Reach Extend When It Comes to Family Members?

Question: We have an employee who took four days off to tend to his daughter in the hospital after she received a C-section and another who wants to take three weeks off to assist her sibling going through chemotherapy. Would the absences in both scenarios fall under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)? Answer: […]

Best of Benefits & Compensation 2024

Benefits and compensation packages play a major role in employee happiness and retention. Forbes found that employees have been prioritizing paid leave, reproductive benefits, menopause benefits, and family forming benefits. But, the bottom line that most workers look for in an employer is “benefits transparency.” As a leader, do you measure up to these expectations? […]