Seven Protected Classes Most Likely to File a Discrimination Lawsuit

Seven Protected Classes Most Likely to File a Discrimination Lawsuit Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII) and other employment laws, there are seven main protected classes of individuals in the United States. These types of individuals are protected under federal law from employment discrimination. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces Title […]
If It’s Not Documented, It Didn’t Happen

The HR Mistake That Could Sink Your Small Business: Inadequate Documentation As a small business owner, it’s tempting to handle employee issues with a quick chat or mental note. But when it comes to HR, verbal doesn’t cut it. If you’re not documenting — you’re not protecting your business. Why HR Documentation Matters More Than […]
Can We Tell Employees Not to Talk About Their Pay? (Q&A)

Can we tell employees not to talk about their pay with each other? Generally, no. The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) grants all non-supervisory employees (not just those in unions) the right to organize and engage in “concerted activity” for the purpose of mutual aid or protection. Concerted means “in concert,” meaning more than one […]
Medical Certification for Family Leave: Stay in Touch with Employee

Medical Certification for Family Leave: Stay in Touch with Employee Our employee went on family leave on August 1 (for which she was qualified). Our outside leave administration company disallowed the claim due to the fact she didn’t get a medical certification in 15 days. She is still out, but her status is now unclear […]
What Does an HR Consultant Actually Do and Why You Might Need One

What Does an HR Consultant Actually Do (and Why You Might Need One) Many small business owners and nonprofit leaders wear too many hats—HR shouldn’t be one of them. That’s where a professional HR consultant comes in. If you’re unsure what HR consulting services actually involve or how they can benefit your organization, you’re not […]
Red Flags Point to Possible Work Comp Fraud

Red Flags Point to Possible Work Comp Fraud Earlier this year, ICW Group received a claim for a 57-year-old truck driver who was a new hire for our insured. On his fifth day of employment, the worker reported injuries from a trip and backward fall wherein he allegedly landed flat on his back. He complained […]
Hiring Your First Employee? Here’s What You Need to Know

Hiring Your First Employee? Here’s What You Need to Know Congratulations! Hiring your first employee is a huge milestone for your business. But while it’s exciting, it’s also a big responsibility. If you’re new to managing employees, it can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, you can make the process smooth and compliant. At […]
As Temps Rise, Protect Your Outdoor Workers from Heat Illness

As Temps Rise, Protect Your Outdoor Workers from Heat Illness As the first major heat wave of the season sends temperatures across California into the 100s, Cal/OSHA reminds all employers to review high temperature advisories and warnings in effect throughout the week — and to protect their outdoor workers from heat illness. Heat illness occurs […]
How to Count Months with Company for State Family Rights Act Leave

How to Count Months with Company for State Family Rights Act Leave I have a former seasonal employee who became a regular employee about nine months ago and is asking for a leave of absence to have surgery. The company has 30 employees, and I know the California Family Rights Act (CFRA) applies to us. […]
How to Track Family Leave When a Workweek Includes a Holiday

How to Track Family Leave When a Workweek Includes a Holiday We have an employee that is currently on California Family Rights Act (CFRA)/Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) leave and will be using leave during the week of a holiday. How do we count the holiday for leave tracking purposes? Anyone familiar with administering […]