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.

Ask the Expert: Is PTO Appropriate When the ADA Doesn’t Require a Paid Leave of Absence?

Question: We have an employee whose essential functions require the use of their hands. They have requested an accommodation, and their physician has recommended a few weeks of time off until specific medical restrictions can be determined. What is our obligation to pay this employee during this doctor-recommended leave of absence? Answer: The leave of absence […]

Ask the Expert: Clear, Consistent Paid-Time-Off Policies Are Vital

Question: An employee worked his entire 40 hours by Wednesday and has requested paid time off (PTO) for Thursday and Friday, bringing the week’s total hours worked to 56. Are we required to pay him for the additional requested time, considering he had already worked his 40 hours and our handbook says PTO is to […]

Paternity Leave Gaining Momentum in the Modern Workplace to Drive Business Performance

In the modern landscape of workplace policies and family-friendly benefits, paternity leave has emerged as a transformative, family-friendly tool for business performance. The inclusion of paternity leave in employee benefits packages is increasingly recognized as a strategic move that can drive business growth and success for companies, while recognizing the fundamental role that family plays […]

Case Study: What to (Remotely) Expect When Your Employee Is Expecting

The COVID-19 pandemic opened the floodgates for requests to work remotely as a disability or pregnancy accommodation under state and federal law. Many employers have been unsure how to handle such requests, and there hasn’t been much guidance from the courts on the topic. But that’s changing. Here’s what one Illinois appellate court has to […]

Homeowner Assistance as an Employee Benefit

Historically, the spring and summer months are the busiest times of year in the real estate market. As the weather warms up, it’s a perfect time for employers to consider offering homeowner assistance as an employee benefit. Homeowner assistance benefits, also known as employer-assisted housing (EAH) programs, are becoming increasingly important for employees as the […]

Putting Earned Wage Access in its Place: A Guide for Employers

In December 2023, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) announced plans to outline how consumer lending laws interact with earned wage access (EWA) programs. These programs have grown in popularity as a solution for employees living paycheck to paycheck, offering early access to earned wages and, in theory, helping to dodge financial penalties like late […]

Filling Communication Gaps: 3 Strategies for Health Benefits Education

For employers aiming to promote employee wellness while controlling healthcare costs, establishing an effective communication and education strategy for health benefits is crucial. Evidence shows that people with higher patient activation have better health outcomes, which leads to cost savings for both the employer and patients. As we ride the wave of increased healthcare costs, […]

Navigating the Burnout Epidemic in the Workplace

Imagine hitting a wall—emotionally, physically, and mentally—after weeks, months, or even years of high stress at work. That’s burnout. It’s not just a bad day; it’s a chronic condition marked by extreme exhaustion and dwindling interest in your job, which can leave you feeling less capable at work. Why Should Organizations Care? When burnout spreads […]

Pay Equity and Merit Increases: Optimally Aligning Processes

For many, merit increase season is coming to a close. Often, pay equity related increases are coordinated with the merit cycle. But reviewing pay equity after merit increases are finalized provides opportunities to: While conventional wisdom has long suggested pay equity adjustments should be processed together with merit increases, so that employees focus on the […]

Mental Health in the Workplace

In recent years, mental health has become a central topic in workplace discussions, reflecting a broader shift toward well-being and employee support. Organizations are increasingly recognizing the importance of mental health and are implementing innovative programs to help employees manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Emergence of Mental Health Awareness With the rise […]