New OSHA Hazard Communication Rules

There are changes coming to the hazard communication rules.  These changes focus on how risks associated with chemical hazards in the workplace are conveyed to employees.  The new communication standard is based on the Globally Harmonized System (GHS).  As the name indicates, GHS is meant to be universally adopted to simplify hazard communication.  These changes go into effect for employers on December 1, 2013.

 

2013 Electronic W2 | Enrollment NOW OPEN!

Get your W2 Electronically
via email as soon as it's available

HOW TO ENROLL
Log onto the IBF website.
Select "click here for E-W2 & W2 Retrieval/Login/Register."

If you have registered in the past:
Log in with user name and password.
There are links if you have forgotten your username and password.

If this is your first time registering:  
below the log in information box click "Not yet registered for E-W2 or W2 Retrieval?" -- use company code iz2435

Click on TURN ON E-W2 for 2013 Tax Year.

... and you're enrolled! You'll receive an email prompt once 2013 W2s are available to login to your account and download your W2.

Should Your Small Business Offer Health Insurance in 2014

For a good part of 2013 I have been speaking to small businesses about the Affordable Care Act (ACA).  At those speaking engagements employers have expressed concern about what should they do in 2014.  Should they provide health insurance, can they afford it or is it better to just wait and see what happens in the latter part of 2013 before making a decision?  There is no easy answer.

The answers to these questions vary depending on each small business owner’s situation.  In creating the ACA there was no stick to entice small business owners into offering health insurance but there is a carrot. 

Battle Claws: Santa vs. the Establishment

Santa Claus.

Some of us dress like him.  Many of us sit on him.  Almost all of us have seen him. 

He’s BIG.   

He also evokes a range of emotions in our diverse culture.   Some people fondly recall memories of family holiday celebrations.  Others find religious meaning.  For some, Santa Claus represents exclusion.  They may not be excluded intentionally.  It just works out that way.  It’s a numbers thing.

Federal Bonding Program

Wanting to hire an applicant but not sure if you should put them in a position of trust due to a criminal background check?  (For example, a theft conviction would normally bar employment where an employee would handle cash.) There is an option with the no cost Federal Bonding Program.  A bond is provided for 6 months at no cost.  After that period there is an option to purchase a bond from Travelers Insurance. The paperwork is minimal and bonds can be put in place for up to $25,000.