Frequently Asked Questions

We like to be transparent with our clients from the start of our partnership, so we've compiled a list of questions that you may have thought of (and some you may not) that we get asked most frequently.

How Can We Show Employees That Their Feedback Is Heard and Valued?

If you’re like most HR professionals, you know how important it is to provide employees with an opportunity to share their feedback. After all, a workforce that feels valued and heard is often a more productive and engaged workforce. But sometimes, it can be hard to know how to show…

Navigating Payroll Deductions: What Small Businesses Should Know

Let’s delve into a topic that might not be the most exciting, but is undeniably crucial for running a small business successfully: payroll deductions. Now, I know talking about deductions might sound a bit tiresome, but understanding them can save you from headaches down the road. So, grab your coffee…

What Is a Self-Service Portal in a Payroll System and How Can It Benefit My Business?

Let’s face it, the traditional way of handling payroll tasks can be a huge pain. It usually involves stacks of paperwork, constant back-and-forth communication, and plenty of time-consuming manual processes. But what if we told you there is a way to streamline your payroll tasks and make them enjoyable? Enter…

Federal DOL Reinstates Longstanding Independent Contractor Test

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has published a final rule for independent contractor classification under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Beginning on March 11, 2024, the rule will effectively reinstate the longstanding version of the “economic reality” test the DOL previously used. This test uses a multifactor, totality-of-the-circumstances analysis…

Simplify Your Benefits Administration: The 4 Major Advantages of Using APlus Payroll

Human resource management has become increasingly complex over the years, especially when it comes to managing employee benefits. With numerous regulations and requirements to comply with, managing employee benefits can be a daunting task. However, with modern HR management solutions like APlus Payroll’s HR module, HR Directors can streamline the…

Can You Store I-9 Forms Electronically?

Beginning a New Year also starts off with creating new habits and one of those for an HR department would be to ensure that you are firstly, using the updated I-9 form which was revised on 8/1/23 (Spanish version also available). Secondly, if you weren’t sure if you could,…

The Importance of Prompt W2 Distribution: A Guide for Employers and Employees

As we enter tax season, it’s critical to understand the importance of sending out and receiving W2 forms promptly. Both employers and employees play vital roles in ensuring a seamless tax filing process, but delays can lead to missed deadlines, penalties, and potential legal issues. Why Send Out W2s Early?…

How Can I Leverage My Payroll Provider’s Expertise for Staying Updated on Regulatory Changes?

As an HR manager, you’re no stranger to the complex and ever-changing landscape of labor laws and tax regulations. Regulatory compliance isn’t just a box to tick—it’s a critical part of your role that safeguards your organization from penalties, lawsuits, and damaged reputations. But how do you stay on top…

Can We Ask Employees if They Are Taking Any Medications That May Impair Their Abilities to Do Their Job?

Employers have a responsibility to ensure workplace safety, and that includes making sure that employees are not impaired by medications that can hinder their performance on the job. However, asking employees about their medications can be a touchy subject. It’s important to approach the topic with sensitivity and respect for…

The Value of Quality Payroll Processing: A Smart Investment for Business Owners

Calling all business owners! Today, we’re going to dive into an often-overlooked aspect of running a business: payroll processing. While it might be tempting to cut corners and opt for cheaper online services, investing in quality payroll processing is a crucial component of a successful business. The Risks of Cheap Payroll…

5 Reasons Why You Should Cherish Companies That Encourage You to Talk to Their Client Support Specialists

Ah, customer service. The very sound of it makes some of us break out in hives. Nameless, faceless, bots, 1-800 numbers and voicemail jail. But what if we told you that talking to customer support is not as bad as you think? In fact, there are companies out there that actively…

HR Q&A. How Many Hours Can I Assign to a Part-Time Employee?

Assigning work hours for part-time employees is a delicate balance between legal regulations, company requirements, and employee satisfaction. When determining the right number of hours for specific job roles, consider the job’s responsibilities and the company’s operational needs. For customer service roles that require coverage during business hours, shorter shifts…

HR Q&A – Are We Required to Update Our I-9s When the Documentation Used for Them Expires?

Eric, SPHR, SHRM-SCP answers this week’s HR question; You would only update a Form I-9 if the expired document pertains to a limited period of employment authorization. You should never reverify U.S. citizens and, in most cases, lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders). However, if a lawful permanent resident presents…

The Power of Employee Retention: A Key to Business Success

In the dynamic world of business, a company’s workforce serves as its backbone. The strength and effectiveness of this backbone can significantly influence a company’s success, stability, and growth. One crucial factor that contributes to this strength is employee retention. The Benefits of Employee Retention Employee retention refers to an organization’s…

The SECURE Act 2.0: A Game-Changer for Small Businesses

In the constantly shifting landscape of small business laws and legislation, it’s critical to stay updated on major legislative changes that can impact you. One such change is the SECURE Act 2.0, an upgrade to the original SECURE Act, which provides more retirement plan flexibility and benefits to small businesses and…

HR Q&A – My Employees Regularly Forget to Log Out During Their Breaks and Meal Periods. I’ve Told Them Countless Times, and They Just Forget to Do It. What Can I Do?

This issue is all too common for Companies large and small, but here are some great tips from HR expert Emily, MBA, SPHR: There are a few steps you can take to help your employees remember to clock out for breaks and meal periods: Ask employees why they’re forgetting. There…

The Pros and Cons of PEOs for Payroll Management

Companies today are increasingly turning to Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs) to handle their payroll and other HR tasks. But while PEOs offer numerous benefits, they also come with limitations that can pose challenges for businesses. Unpacking PEOs A PEO is an organization that provides comprehensive HR solutions to businesses, including…

Take the Stress Out of Benefit Enrollment With APlus Payroll

With the end of year coming up sooner rather than later, managing your employee benefits are once again at the top of mind. However, with the right tools and the right team behind you, managing your employee benefits can be a breeze. Why Benefit Enrollment Systems are Crucial The process of…

What Should I Look For When Evaluating Payroll Providers?

Looking for a payroll provider? We know that choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Let us help clear things up for you! When it comes to payroll, there are two key factors that influence cost: time and quality of service. If you opt for a lower cost provider, you might…

A Comprehensive Guide to the Tax Implications of Hiring Your Child in Your Company

Hiring your child as an employee or intern in your company can be a smart business move, not only for their personal and professional growth but also for the potential tax benefits it offers. However, it is crucial to understand the tax implications and follow the proper procedures to ensure…

The Human Side of Payroll Providers – Why Having Real People On Call Is Essential For Your Business

In the realm of Payroll services, the value of human interaction cannot be overstated. While digital tools and automated processes have their merits, the sensitive, complex nature of your payroll often requires a human touch. Real people bring empathy, understanding and flexibility to the table, qualities that are irreplaceable and cannot…

HR Q&A – Can We Decrease the Number of Hours an Employee Works?

“Yes. Absent an employment contract or other legally binding agreement, you can reduce an employee’s work hours—there is no law that prevents this. Hours are typically reduced for reasons such as a decrease in business needs, the company’s productivity has decreased, job restructuring, or reorganization.” – Daniel, SHRM-SCP It’s important, however,…

Is Remote I-9 Verification Right for You?

Did you know you may still be able to verify I-9 documents remotely? But, you’ll need to use the new procedure. Learn more about it below. As we reported earlier, there’s a new I-9 form, and you should be using it for all new hires. When U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services…

Deciding When to Establish a Dedicated HR Department: A Guide for Growing Businesses

As your business expands, there comes a point where managing human resources (HR) duties becomes more complex and time-consuming. Therefore, it’s crucial to establish a dedicated HR department at the right time. However, determining when that is can be challenging. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, several factors can guide your…

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Meet Payroll Paul

Payroll Paul first joined APlus Payroll in 2008. He specializes in helping build the customer service, marketing, and culture within the company; relying on his 40+ years of 'customer delight' experiences across six countries.

Paul Devlin