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.

Survey Reveals What Employees Want (and Get) From Workforce Education Programs

New research reveals the impact of employer-sponsored education programs. Delivering value for individuals and organizations alike, workforce education drives significant outcomes, from 77% higher retention to 12x more promotions. What are employees saying about their education benefits? A new survey of employees enrolled in workforce education programs reveals a clear message: workforce education is a […]

Surviving—and Thriving—With a 4-Day Workweek

In the United States, only about 18% of companies have taken steps toward implementing a 4-day workweek, although 59% say they’re willing to consider such a model. That interest may be on the rise as employees are increasingly demanding more flexibility—and leaving jobs for greener pastures if they aren’t able to have enough flexibility and […]

HR Leaders Need Immediate Focus on Mental Health Benefits

The critical nature and status of mental health in the U.S. has become a top concern, and it’s no different in the workplace. Companies can support employees with mental health benefits, including education and training about how employees can access these benefits. HR professionals must be intentional in this training and measure results in employee […]

If an Employee Dies Without a Will, Here’s What to Do With Their Last Paycheck

Q           We have an employee who recently passed away. He wasn’t married, didn’t have a will, and didn’t have company life insurance or death benefits. How do we handle his final paycheck? Do we continue with our regular payroll procedures, should we wait for the beneficiary for his estate to be identified, or something else? […]

FLSA

Navigating FLSA Exemptions: Understanding the Preponderance of Evidence Standard 

The Supreme Court’s recent opinion in E.M.D. Sales Inc. et al. v. Carrera et al., No. 23-217, 2025 WL 96207 (U.S. Jan. 15, 2025) provides clarity for employers navigating the complexities of exemptions to the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This ruling set the “preponderance of the evidence” standard as the benchmark for proving exemptions, […]

The Advantages of Adding Micro Retirement to HR Benefits

As the modern workforce continues to evolve, employees are increasingly seeking more flexibility in their work-life balance. One emerging trend gaining traction in human resources (HR) strategies is the concept of micro retirement. According to a survey last April by the American Staffing Association (ASA) and The Harris Poll, 43% of U.S. workers report feeling […]

Adjusting to Workplace Laws Under Trump

As the Trump administration focuses its priorities, employers need to be aware of several new, proposed, and potential changes to workplace laws, regulations, and federal agency enforcement initiatives. Here is a preview of some of the likely changes. Independent Contractor Classification/Joint Employer Rule After the first Trump administration, the Biden administration reverted to a more […]

I9

H-1B CAP Alert – Key Dates for This Year’s H-1B Registration Process

It’s that time of year again: H-1B CAP season! The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) initial registration period for H-1B CAP will open at 12:00 p.m. ET, on March 7, 2025, and run through 12:00 p.m. ET, on March 24, 2025. During this period, prospective employers and representatives must use a USCIS online account […]

Solving an FMLA Mystery, Finally!

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) became the law in 1993. That’s more than 30 years ago. You’d think all questions about it would have been answered years ago by all federal appeals courts. But trust me, that’s not how the law works! A 2024 case from one of the largest appeals courts in […]

advice

Ask an Expert: February 2025 Q&A Roundup

Q        Our company employs EMTs, nurses, nurse practitioners, and doctors to provide on-site medical care at locations like construction sites, infrastructure projects, and manufacturing plants. They may not always have another assignment right away but are usually interested in future assignments with the company. In terms of payroll, to avoid repeated extensive onboarding, should we lay […]