Reproductive Loss Leave: Why Employers Should Expand Their Bereavement Policies

June 11, 2024
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While bereavement leave is not federally required in the United States, many employers voluntarily offer this benefit through a bereavement policy or paid time off (PTO) policy. Despite this, fertility-related loss—including miscarriage, stillbirth, and failed fertility treatments—is often excluded from traditional bereavement policies. But it’s time to acknowledge the emotional, physical, and psychological toll of… Read More »

The 9/80 Work Schedule: A Guide for Employers

June 4, 2024
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In today’s competitive job market, offering flexible work schedules can make your business stand out. One option gaining popularity is the 9/80 work schedule, which combines flexibility with a compressed workweek. Employers can boost employee morale, increase productivity, and support work-life balance with this arrangement. However, like any change, it comes with challenges, especially when… Read More »

PTO Cashouts: Not a Free-for-All Policy!

May 28, 2024
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As a small business owner, you might be looking for ways to manage your team’s paid time off (PTO) effectively, especially when it comes to unused days. One option that may come to mind is a PTO cashout policy.  Sounds easy, right? Just pay out employees for their unused PTO, and voila! Everyone’s happy.  Except… Read More »

Here’s Why Your Company Needs an Employee Assistance Program

March 19, 2024
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Today’s workers are stressed out and anxious.  With the World Health Organization (WHO) naming stress the health epidemic of the 21st century, it’s no surprise that both personal and professional stress permeates so many corners of our lives. This is why it is so important for companies to implement Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). An EAP… Read More »

Understanding the Health Insurance Responsibility Disclosure (HIRD) Form: A Guide for Massachusetts Employers

February 27, 2024

If you’re an employer in Massachusetts, you may have heard about the Health Insurance Responsibility Disclosure (HIRD) form. This form is essential for complying with state regulations, and understanding it can help you navigate your responsibilities effectively.  In this article, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions to help you grasp the basics of the HIRD… Read More »

A Complete Guide to the MA Paid Family & Medical Leave + NEW Top Off Legislation

January 9, 2024
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By now, most employers and employees in the Bay State are familiar with the Massachusetts Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program, which provides support for employees who need to take time off for family or medical reasons. However, new “top off” legislation went into effect on November 1, 2023, allowing employees receiving PFML benefits… Read More »

Building Employee Benefits on a Budget: 6 Areas to Start

December 19, 2023

You have a small growing business and want to provide employee benefits, but between the administrative undertaking and the cost, it’s an intimidating idea. So where do you start? How do you keep it manageable and affordable while doing your best for your team?  The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average cost of… Read More »

16+ Unique Employee Benefits to Keep Your Workplace Competitive

December 5, 2023
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Do employees still care about their benefits? Yes, perhaps more than ever—it’s not just about compensation! While they’re not willing to accept the bare minimum, Forbes Advisor found that one in 10 workers say they would take a pay cut as a tradeoff for better benefits. As employers strive to remain competitive, offering unique employee… Read More »

Employer’s Guide to Short-term and Long-term Disability Insurance

August 16, 2023
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As an employer, you may have a general understanding of short-term and long-term disability insurance. But do you clearly understand these benefits and the difference between each? Disabilities can impact anyone, and having the right policies ensures your team members can receive the necessary assistance without unnecessary stress. Everyone should have some type of disability… Read More »

Maternity and Paternity Leave vs. Parental Leave: What’s Right for Your Team?

July 18, 2023
Maternity and Paternity Leave vs. Parental Leave: What’s Right for Your Team?

As employers contemplate ways to stay ahead of the competition, boost employee morale, and enhance their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, many are debating between maternity and paternity leave or parental leave policies.  America is one of the only developed countries that doesn’t offer nationwide paid parental or family leave. The Family and Medical… Read More »