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Employer Recordkeeping Essentials
While many organizations focus on budgets and performance goals in Q1, recordkeeping often gets overlooked. Recordkeeping may not be the most exciting part of running a business, but it is an important part. Strong documentation practices quietly protect your organization every day, especially when questions or claims arise. Personnel files, I-9 forms, payroll records, benefits documentation, and other employment related documents have specific retention requirements. Keeping
7 hours ago2 min read
Addressing Gender Inequity in the Workplace
As Women’s History Month begins, we are turning our attention to a conversation that continues well beyond March: gender inequality in the workplace. Despite ongoing efforts toward workplace equality, gender inequity remains a persistent challenge in many industries. One of the most significant barriers women face is the gender pay gap, which continues to impact career growth and financial stability. While progress has been made, there is still work to be done. One of the mos
Mar 42 min read
Setting Performance Goals That Actually Work in Q1
The first quarter is when many employers establish the direction for the year ahead. Performance goals set during this time often shape priorities, workloads, and expectations beyond Q1. When goals are clear and realistic, they create focus and accountability. Start With Role Clarity Strong performance goals are grounded in a clear understanding of each role. Before setting new objectives, it is important to confirm that job responsibilities, priorities, and measures of succe
Jan 72 min read
Simple Ways to Re-Engage Your Team After the Holidays
The return to work after the holidays often brings full inboxes, competing priorities, and a noticeable dip in momentum. Re-engaging your team does not require a large initiative or new program. In most cases, it starts with intentional communication and a clear plan for the weeks ahead. When priorities are not explicit, employees default to reacting to emails, requests, and meetings rather than focusing on meaningful work. This creates the appearance of low engagement when t
Dec 30, 20251 min read
2026 Contribution Limit Updates
The IRS has released the updated contribution limits for 401(k) plans, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), and other tax-advantaged benefits for 2026. These adjustments reflect annual cost-of-living changes and give employees new opportunities to save for healthcare and retirement. Below is a summary of the key updates employers should be aware of for the 2026 tax year. Retirement Plan Contribution Limits 401(k), 403(b), 457, and TSP Plans Emplo
Dec 17, 20251 min read
Year-End HR Checklist: What to Wrap Up Before January 1
As the year comes to a close, it’s the perfect time to review key HR processes and set the stage for a smooth start to the new year. A thorough year-end review helps ensure compliance, strengthens your recordkeeping, and allows you to catch policy or data gaps before January 1. Review Payroll and Benefits Confirm that all wages, taxes, and benefit deductions are accurate for the year. Make sure taxable fringe benefits such as gift cards, bonuses, and personal use of company v
Dec 10, 20252 min read
Payroll Leap Years: What Employers Need to Know
Every few years, the calendar does something that quietly disrupts payroll teams everywhere: it creates a year with more paydays than usual. And with 2026 and 2027 on the horizon, many employers on a biweekly schedule will start noticing that their pay calendars may include 27 pay periods instead of the usual 26. While this is not a crisis, it is something worth planning for, especially for small and mid-sized employers where budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow are closely
Dec 3, 20253 min read
Building a Culture of Appreciation
A culture of appreciation does not happen by accident; it is built through consistent actions that show people they are valued. Recognition should not live in one season, one event, or one email from leadership. It has to show up in how managers lead, how teams communicate, and how success is celebrated. Appreciation doesn’t always mean awards or bonuses. Sometimes it is about being seen and supported: a manager who makes time to listen, a leader who shares credit for a proje
Nov 25, 20251 min read
What You Need to Know About Pay Transparency in California
Pay transparency has become a defining part of California’s workplace landscape and it is here to stay. Employers are expected to share more information about compensation than ever before, not only in job postings but also in how they communicate with current employees. The goal of these laws is to create clarity and consistency in pay practices. For employers, it is an opportunity to strengthen trust while ensuring compliance with California requirements. What Pay Transpare
Nov 19, 20252 min read
2026 Employment Law Updates: What Employers Need to Know
As 2026 approaches, California is once again expanding worker protections and reshaping employer responsibilities. From new notice requirements to broader leave rights, the coming year brings updates that business owners should start planning for now. Here’s a quick rundown of what’s changing and how to prepare. Workplace Know Your Rights Act (SB 294) California’s new Workplace Know Your Rights Act requires employers to provide written notice to all employees outlining their
Nov 12, 20252 min read
Navigating the Holidays Without Compromising Compliance
The holiday season can bring unique compliance challenges, from scheduling and pay practices to time-off requests and workplace inclusion. Taking a thoughtful, consistent approach to holiday practices helps ensure everyone feels recognized and respected, while keeping compliance on track. Holiday Pay: Clarity Is the Greatest Gift When it comes to holiday pay, clarity is key. Neither federal nor California law requires private employers to provide paid holidays, but many do as
Nov 5, 20252 min read
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