A plan document is the official governing document of employee benefit plans, such as health, welfare, and retirement plans. The Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) requires that almost all private employers that sponsor benefit plans have corresponding plan documents. Your plan document should include specific information about the plan, such as eligibility, funding and […]
Category: HR Q&A
Q&A: Should we include a pay range in our job postings even though we aren’t required to by law?
We generally recommend including pay ranges in job postings even if it isn’t legally required. First, since the practice has become more common, more job seekers expect it, and many won’t apply for jobs that don’t include a pay range. By not including this information, you risk missing out on top talent. Second, sharing pay […]
Q&A: We’ve decided to bring employees back into the office a few days each week and change our remote work policies. Some employees have been grumbling about this change. What should we do?
Any time you make a change like this, you can expect a certain amount of employee complaints. People aren’t inherently great with change, and the benefits of remote work can be hard to part with. Given that, instead of trying to shut down complaints (which could potentially run afoul of employees’ rights under the National […]
Q&A: What can we do to prevent employees from clocking in early?
Start by asking employees why they’re clocking in early. That information will help you determine whether the issue could be solved with a simple conversation or whether there are other factors at play you may need to address. If employees are simply unaware of your expectations, re-communicate your timekeeping policy and what the consequences will […]
Q&A: Can we ask applicants to share their pronouns on our job application?
In general, yes. There are some things to consider. First, the question should be optional and clearly stated as such on the application. Second, if you ask for pronouns on the application, screeners and interviewers should use them. Your workplace culture won’t come across as authentic or inclusive if the applicant’s stated pronouns are disregarded. […]
Q&A: What is a health flexible spending account?
A health flexible spending account (HFSA) lets employees set aside pre-tax money from their paycheck during the year, and they can use this money to pay for eligible healthcare expenses for themselves, their spouse, or their dependents. The funds in these accounts are typically “use it or lose it,” with some exceptions for carryover or […]
Q&A: We’re considering demoting an employee. What questions should we ask ourselves to ensure we are making the right decision?
Demotions, like other employment decisions, need to be handled carefully. You should ask yourself the following questions to ensure you are handling the situation fairly and legally: * Do you have an employment contract with this employee guaranteeing them a certain position or rate of pay? If so, demotion may not be feasible. * Why […]
Q&A: We’ve just hired a remote employee who will be working in a different state. Do we need to make a new employee handbook?
You probably don’t need a whole new employee handbook, but you’ll certainly want to review the one you currently have in light of the laws in the state where the remote employee is located. As you may know, you need to follow the laws in the state where the employee will be physically performing their […]
Q&A: Can we ask applicants if they have a car?
If a personal vehicle is truly necessary to do the job – for instance, if the open position is for a courier and you don’t provide a company vehicle – then yes, asking whether the applicant has access to a car would be appropriate. However, if your concern is the employee’s ability to get to […]
Q&A: How can we help our employees feel more comfortable providing feedback about their managers?
Employees are often uncomfortable providing feedback about their managers because they fear workplace tension or retaliation, they aren’t sure what to say, or they don’t believe anything will change. The following practices can help address these concerns: – Use a survey tool that will enable you to share results and feedback with managers anonymously. If […]