Mission to Grow: A Small Business Guide to Cash, Compliance, and the War for Talent

Scaling to between 50 and 149 employees is a critical growth phase that brings new challenges in HR, compliance, and company culture. In this episode of MTG, Mike Vannoy, Mary Simmons, and Brian Shenker explore the essential strategies businesses need to navigate this transition successfully. From training managers and establishing structured HR processes to ensuring compliance with FMLA, ACA, and EEO reporting, they break down what it takes to maintain efficiency and legal adherence as your workforce expands. Tune in to learn how to build a strong HR foundation and prepare for the next stage of growth. 

Takeaways:

• As your company grows beyond 50 employees, it's essential to set up a dedicated HR function. This will ensure compliance with labor laws, streamline HR processes, and maintain productivity. 
• The founder's direct influence on company culture diminishes as the company grows. It's crucial to train managers to manage both people and processes, ensuring that they maintain and propagate the established culture effectively. 
• If you have 50 or more employees within a 75-mile radius, you must comply with the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA). This includes understanding eligibility, managing leave requests, and ensuring employees can return to their positions after leave.
• Companies with 50 or more full-time equivalent employees must offer health coverage that meets ACA standards. Understanding how to calculate full-time equivalents is critical.
• If you sponsor retirement and health plans, you may need to file Form 5500 with the IRS, especially if you have more than 100 participants. Work with your plan administrator or service provider to ensure accurate and timely filing to avoid penalties.
• When your company reaches 100 employees, you are required to submit EEO-1 reports, which include demographic data. This helps in maintaining compliance with federal non-discrimination laws. 
• Stay informed about changes to affirmative action requirements, especially regarding DEI practices. Recent executive orders might affect compliance requirements for federal contractors. Regularly review and update your HR policies to ensure they meet current regulations and best practices.

Quote of the Show:

• "If you're making a mistake in HR now, it might not just be affecting one person. It might be a whole group of employees, which exponentially increases that exposure" 

Links:

• Asure Software: https://www.asuresoftware.com/ 
• Mary’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marysimmonshrconsultant/  
• Brian’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-shenker-53708712/  
• Brian’s Company Website: http://www.jacksonlewis.com 
• FMLA Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7a_4r61Vm4&t=1s 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XThTdn7YC1lkAm0PgZUkj  
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent/id1725890976 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/328dddd0-3c4f-4b07-a0d3-13bdcb418486/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent?refMarker=null 
• Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/Mission-to-Grow-A-Small-Business-Guide-to-Cash-Compliance-and-the-War-for-Talent-Podcast/B0CS71KQFM?qid=1706208857&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=A1ME8MBECSVZ6K4D7CNT&pageLoadId=QBtg12mqKsuZPLGY&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/mission-to-grow-a-small-busine-5591006 

How can small businesses take advantage of Secure Act 2.0 tax credits to set up a 401k plan, attract and retain employees, and stay compliant with state mandates? In this episode, we’re diving into why 401k plans are a game-changer for small businesses. Many assume retirement plans are only for large corporations, but that’s no longer the case. With recent legislation like Secure Act 2.0 offering significant tax credits, setting up a 401k is more accessible and beneficial than ever. Joined by Charlie Cote from JP Morgan and Kevin Gaston from Vestwell, we’ll explore how small businesses can leverage these plans to attract and retain top talent, comply with evolving state mandates, and even build personal wealth as business owners. 

Takeaways:

• Take full advantage of the significant tax credits available under Secure Act 2.0 for setting up and maintaining a 401k plan. These credits can help offset costs and even match employee contributions, making the plan financially feasible for your business.
• Work with modern 401k providers that offer streamlined setup and automated processes. Look for features like payroll integration that reduce the administrative burden on your business.
• Opt for providers that offer co-fiduciary services to share the fiduciary responsibilities. This can minimize your liability and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements without overwhelming you with paperwork.
• Stay informed about state-level mandates that require businesses to offer retirement plans. Proactively setting up a 401k can help you avoid future penalties and comply with local regulations.
• Use vesting schedules and employer-matching contributions as tools to attract and retain top talent. These features not only make your benefits package more competitive but also provide incentives for employees to stay with your company longer.
• Educate your employees about the benefits of participating in a 401k plan, including tax advantages and long-term financial security. An informed workforce is more likely to engage and take advantage of the benefits offered.

Quote of the Show:

• " You can get wealth creation and employee retention within your 401k plan if you design it the right way." - Charlie Cote

Links:

• Charlie’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-cote-25202b20/ 
• Kevin’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevingaston/ 
• Vestwell: https://www.vestwell.com/ 
• J.P. Morgan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jpmorganassetmanagement/about/ 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XThTdn7YC1lkAm0PgZUkj  
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent/id1725890976 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/328dddd0-3c4f-4b07-a0d3-13bdcb418486/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent?refMarker=null 
• Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/Mission-to-Grow-A-Small-Business-Guide-to-Cash-Compliance-and-the-War-for-Talent-Podcast/B0CS71KQFM?qid=1706208857&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=A1ME8MBECSVZ6K4D7CNT&pageLoadId=QBtg12mqKsuZPLGY&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/mission-to-grow-a-small-busine-5591006 

What does it take to scale a small business from 16 to 50 employees while maintaining compliance, culture, and efficiency? In this week’s episode of Mission To Grow, host Mike Vannoy leads a compelling panel discussion on scaling small businesses from 16 to 50 employees. Joined by HR experts Mary Simmons, Heather James, and Chris Cooley, the episode dives into the challenges and solutions of this pivotal growth phase. Topics include the importance of consistent processes, compliance with complex HR laws, effective recruitment strategies, and the role of HR tools like HRIS systems in ensuring smooth operations. Tune in for actionable insights to help your business navigate this transformative stage with confidence. 

Takeaways:

• Scale your best practices by developing and sticking to well-defined and repeatable processes. Consistency in HR activities is crucial to successfully scaling your business.
• Utilize background checks for all employees and ensure you have policies and procedures in place to comply with adverse action laws. Keep your business safe by managing risks effectively.
• To attract and retain talent, consider offering creative, cost-effective benefits like HSAs, FSAs, and pet insurance. Even small perks can make a significant impact on employee satisfaction.
• Be proactive in understanding and complying with federal, state, and municipal laws affecting your business. Make sure you’re aware of requirements related to ADA, GINA, PDA, and COBRA, among others.
• Invest in HRIS and payroll systems to automate processes and ensure compliance. These tools are indispensable for maintaining accurate records, managing employee information, and ensuring timely tax submissions.
• Consider working with HR consultants or services to audit your HR practices and provide ongoing guidance. This external expertise can help you navigate complex compliance issues and implement best HR practices.

Quote of the Show:

• " You need people that align to your mission, your vision, your values, and that are going to help you grow your business." - Mike Vannoy

Links:

• Assure’s Website: https://www.asuresoftware.com/  
• eBook: https://offers.asuresoftware.com/hubfs/E-Books/Asure_HR_Roadmap_Guide24%20Nov%202023.pdf 
• MyHRScreens Website: http://www.myhrconcierge.com 
• Mary’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marysimmonshrconsultant/ 
• Chris’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ccooley1/ 
• Heather’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-james-4a727b16/ 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XThTdn7YC1lkAm0PgZUkj  
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent/id1725890976 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/328dddd0-3c4f-4b07-a0d3-13bdcb418486/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent?refMarker=null 
• Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/Mission-to-Grow-A-Small-Business-Guide-to-Cash-Compliance-and-the-War-for-Talent-Podcast/B0CS71KQFM?qid=1706208857&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=A1ME8MBECSVZ6K4D7CNT&pageLoadId=QBtg12mqKsuZPLGY&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/mission-to-grow-a-small-busine-5591006 

How can small businesses with 1 to 15 employees avoid costly payroll errors, attract the right talent, and ensure compliance while building a strong company culture? In this week’s episode of Mission To Grow, host Mike Vannoy leads a panel discussion on essential HR practices for small businesses with 1 to 15 employees. Featuring insights from experts Jessica Small, Scott Petersen, and Mary Simmons, the conversation covers payroll accuracy, hiring strategies, compliance, employee engagement, and the importance of leveraging the right tools and systems. Tune in for actionable advice to streamline HR processes, foster employee satisfaction, and set your business up for success.

Takeaways:

• Ensuring accurate data entry (e.g., social security numbers, birth dates) is crucial for avoiding payroll errors. Mistakes can lead to significant issues like delayed payments, misfiled taxes, and hefty penalties. 
• Focus on defining and communicating your company's culture and values. This not only attracts the right talent but also ensures that new hires align with your vision.
• Adhering to federal and state laws is not just about avoiding penalties but also about fostering employee trust and satisfaction. Compliance with regulations ensures a fair and transparent working environment.
• A smooth and comprehensive onboarding process sets the tone for the employee experience. Use digital tools to minimize redundancy and ensure all necessary paperwork, like I-9 verification, is completed accurately and timely.
• Use integrated systems for payroll, time tracking, and HR management to save time and reduce errors. These tools not only improve efficiency but also give you access to valuable data for better decision-making.
• A well-crafted employee handbook is essential for setting clear expectations and providing a reference for both employees and employers. Consistency in policies helps avoid misunderstandings.
• Get creative with benefits to attract and retain talent, especially if you can't offer extensive health benefits. Consider flexible work hours, pay cards, or on-demand pay options.

Quote of the Show:

• " Give somebody the reason why they should work for you." - Mary Simmons

Links:

• Assure’s Website: https://www.asuresoftware.com/ 
• Hireclick’s Website: https://employers.hireclick.com/ 
• Scott’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottcpetersen/ 
• Mary’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marysimmonshrconsultant/ 
• Jessica’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-small-214720259/ 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XThTdn7YC1lkAm0PgZUkj  
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent/id1725890976 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/328dddd0-3c4f-4b07-a0d3-13bdcb418486/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent?refMarker=null 
• Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/Mission-to-Grow-A-Small-Business-Guide-to-Cash-Compliance-and-the-War-for-Talent-Podcast/B0CS71KQFM?qid=1706208857&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=A1ME8MBECSVZ6K4D7CNT&pageLoadId=QBtg12mqKsuZPLGY&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c 

Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/mission-to-grow-a-small-busine-5591006 

What are the tax advantages and compliance challenges of switching to an S Corporation, and how can business owners decide if it's the right move for their company?

This week on Mission to Grow, Mike Vannoy sits down with Jason Blumer, CEO of Blummer & Associates, for an insightful discussion on S Corporations. Together, they explore the advantages of S Corp classification, including significant tax savings, while unpacking the complexities of compliance, payroll, and legal considerations. Whether you're an entrepreneur weighing the shift from an LLC or a sole proprietorship, or a small business owner striving to optimize your tax strategy, this episode is brimming with expert advice and practical tips to help you make informed decisions. Don’t miss this deep dive into the world of S Corps!

Takeaways:

•  Assess your business profits to determine if you're consistently gaining above $80,000 to $100,000 annually. This is crucial for considering more strategic tax classifications.
• If your profits are within the suggested range, consult with your accountant to elect your business as an S Corporation (S Corp) to gain significant tax benefits.
• Establish a payroll system, ensuring you pay yourself a reasonable salary as mandated by the IRS. This action can reduce your tax burden significantly.
• Engage professional services for payroll, accounting, and tax filings. Avoid handling these complexities on your own to prevent costly mistakes and ensure compliance.
• Learn the difference between legal entity formations (LLC, corporation) and their tax classifications (S Corp, C Corp, Schedule C) to make informed decisions for your business structure. 
• Continuously monitor your business’s profitability to ensure you are optimizing your tax strategy yearly. This might involve readjusting payroll or exploring additional savings opportunities in your operations.

Quote of the Show:

• " You want to get into an entity that's actually going to be best for you and very tax efficient, and lets you think about growing from there." - Jason Blumer

Links:

• Website: https://blumercpas.com/who-we-are/jason-blumer/ 
• Jason’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonblumer/ 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XThTdn7YC1lkAm0PgZUkj  
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent/id1725890976 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/328dddd0-3c4f-4b07-a0d3-13bdcb418486/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent?refMarker=null 
• Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/Mission-to-Grow-A-Small-Business-Guide-to-Cash-Compliance-and-the-War-for-Talent-Podcast/B0CS71KQFM?qid=1706208857&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=A1ME8MBECSVZ6K4D7CNT&pageLoadId=QBtg12mqKsuZPLGY&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/mission-to-grow-a-small-busine-5591006 

As the year comes to a close, what steps can small businesses take to ensure FLSA compliance, maximize tax credits, and position themselves for growth in the new year?

This week on Mission to Grow, Mike Vannoy brings together an all-star lineup of experts, including Mary Simmons, Richard Tatum, Shannon Scott, and Janel Weinke, for the Best of 2024 Compilation. In this special episode, they delve into pivotal business topics like Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) compliance, employee recruitment and retention strategies, the evolution of 401k plans, and employer tax credits. Packed with actionable insights and practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for business owners looking to enhance their operations, stay compliant, and leverage financial incentives to grow their companies. Don’t miss this invaluable discussion!

Takeaways:

• Conduct a thorough audit of your HR policies and employee classifications to ensure they are fully compliant with the Fair Labor Standards Act. This will help prevent potential legal issues and ensure that all employees are correctly classified. 
• Establish consistent hiring practices across your organization to prevent discrimination and ensure a fair process for all candidates. This consistency also fosters a positive company culture that attracts top talent.
• Explore the benefits of offering a 401k plan to your employees. Offering a 401k not only enhances your employee benefits package but also helps you attract and retain talent by providing a valuable retirement savings option for your staff.
• Take advantage of tax credits available to small businesses, such as the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC). These credits can significantly reduce your tax liabilities, providing valuable financial resources that can be reinvested into your business. 
• Regularly check for updates and new tax credit opportunities as the year-end approaches. Staying informed about the latest changes to tax laws and available credits can help you plan strategically for the next fiscal year. 

Links:

• Asure Software: https://www.asuresoftware.com/  
• Mary’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marysimmonshrconsultant/  
• Richard’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardmtatum/ 
• Shannon’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonscottceo/ 
• Janel’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janel-weinke-3113b028/ 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XThTdn7YC1lkAm0PgZUkj  
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent/id1725890976 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/328dddd0-3c4f-4b07-a0d3-13bdcb418486/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent?refMarker=null 
• Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/Mission-to-Grow-A-Small-Business-Guide-to-Cash-Compliance-and-the-War-for-Talent-Podcast/B0CS71KQFM?qid=1706208857&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=A1ME8MBECSVZ6K4D7CNT&pageLoadId=QBtg12mqKsuZPLGY&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/mission-to-grow-a-small-busine-5591006 

What are the key strategies employers can adopt to navigate employee classifications effectively while ensuring compliance with the ever-changing FLSA minimum salary rules and fostering trust?

This week on Mission to Grow, Mike Vannoy engages in an in-depth discussion with Mary Simmons and Brian Shenker on the significant implications of the 5th Circuit's ruling on the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) minimum salary rule. Mike, Mary, and Brian dissect the complexities surrounding the recent court decision that vacated the Department of Labor’s new rule, reverting it back to previous levels. Dive into this episode to understand the legal and practical ramifications for employers, strategies for handling employee classifications, maintaining compliance, and the importance of thorough job audits. It’s a crucial episode for any business owner navigating the ever-changing landscape of employment law. Don’t miss this essential conversation!

Takeaways:

• Schedule annual audits conducted by external experts to ensure compliance with FLSA and state regulations. This will help identify and correct any misclassifications or compliance issues.
• Regularly review and update job descriptions to ensure they accurately reflect the duties of each role. This helps in defending exempt and non-exempt classifications.
• Stay updated on federal, state, and local labor law changes. When changes occur, communicate clearly and transparently with your employees to maintain trust and morale.
• Include a budget line for HR and legal compliance services in your annual planning. This should be viewed as essential as tax preparation services due to the complexities of labor law.
• Utilize free resources like the Department of Labor website for guidelines, or professional organizations. Dedicate time weekly to keep updated with the latest regulations and compliance tips.
• Create a clear communication strategy for how to talk about salary and classification changes with employees. This can prevent morale issues and potential legal challenges.
• Use the process of updating job descriptions as an opportunity to identify potential organizational changes or succession planning, which can enhance overall business growth and efficiency.

Quote of the Show:

• "When things are not communicated well to employees, even if it was arguably legal, they might go to an attorney because they're not trusting what the employer does." - Brian Shenker

Links:

• Brian’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-shenker-53708712/  
• Brian’s Company Website: http://www.jacksonlewis.com 
• Mary’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marysimmonshrconsultant/  
• Asure Software: https://www.asuresoftware.com/ 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XThTdn7YC1lkAm0PgZUkj  
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent/id1725890976 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/328dddd0-3c4f-4b07-a0d3-13bdcb418486/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent?refMarker=null 
• Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/Mission-to-Grow-A-Small-Business-Guide-to-Cash-Compliance-and-the-War-for-Talent-Podcast/B0CS71KQFM?qid=1706208857&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=A1ME8MBECSVZ6K4D7CNT&pageLoadId=QBtg12mqKsuZPLGY&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/mission-to-grow-a-small-busine-5591006 

In this episode, we dive into the latest updates in employment law and their implications for both business owners and employees in 2025. Our guest, Mary Simmons, explores how these changes will affect HR practices, including immigration enforcement, FLSA changes, the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, I-9 updates, minimum wage increases, and evolving sick leave policies. We discuss the proactive steps business owners must take to stay compliant, such as conducting audits, updating handbooks, and training managers. The conversation also highlights the importance of clear communication and strategic planning in navigating these legal changes and maintaining a competitive edge in the labor market.

Takeaways:

• Be aware of the upcoming HR law changes in 2025. These changes could affect various aspects of your business operations and employee management, including compliance with new legal standards.
• Be deliberate with your training. While certain areas of HR law, like I-9 compliance, may seem straightforward, they require deliberate attention and proper training to ensure compliance and avoid penalties
• Conduct periodic audits, especially of I-9 forms and classification of employees. Ensuring compliance through self-audits can help mitigate the risk of costly fines and legal issues if inspected by government agencies.
• Be prepared for increased government inspections and audits, especially regarding topics like immigration and I-9 compliance, as enforcement is expected to rise.
• Regularly update your employee handbook to reflect new laws and policies. This ensures that both you and your employees are aware of their rights and responsibilities, helping to maintain compliance and a clear understanding of workplace rules.
• Implement open and honest communication with your employees, especially when it comes to changes in policies like minimum wage or paid leave. Keeping employees informed and engaged helps in maintaining a positive workplace culture and can improve retention.

Quote of the Show:

• “Some laws have a threshold of a certain amount of employees that it affects, but it really affects everyone. If your competitors have to offer that new benefit, and you're not offering it, you're not going to be able to win that talent." - Mary Simmons

Links:

• LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/marysimmonshrconsultant/ 
• Company Website: https://www.asuresoftware.com/ 
• Navigating Accommodations Under the PWFA: Insights for Employers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rx9UGDdLc9g&list=PLn0y0cxOWrJi97JI1u1aMHSK9ySSXaEQ8&index=8 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XThTdn7YC1lkAm0PgZUkj  
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent/id1725890976 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/328dddd0-3c4f-4b07-a0d3-13bdcb418486/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent?refMarker=null 
• Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/Mission-to-Grow-A-Small-Business-Guide-to-Cash-Compliance-and-the-War-for-Talent-Podcast/B0CS71KQFM?qid=1706208857&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=A1ME8MBECSVZ6K4D7CNT&pageLoadId=QBtg12mqKsuZPLGY&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/mission-to-grow-a-small-busine-5591006 
• Transistor: https://missiontogrow.asuresoftware.com/ 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AsureSoftware 

How can employers leverage the benefits of offering earned wage access to not only enhance recruitment and retention but also to significantly improve employee productivity and engagement? In this episode, we delve into the transformative shift from traditional payday loans to on-demand pay models. We explore how digital advancements have led to new, cost-effective solutions that empower employees to access their earned wages without stigma or significant fees. This shift is facilitated by innovative banking models leveraging merchant fees to create a seamless and free experience for employees. We also discuss the profound benefits for employers, such as improved recruitment, retention, and productivity, driven by offering financial wellness tools.

Takeaways:

• Evolution from Payday Loans to Digital Earned Wage Access: Employees once reliant on high-interest payday loans now benefit from digital earned wage access with low fees and reduced friction.
• Merchant-Funded Access: The innovative model relies on merchant fees from debit card transactions, allowing services to be offered at no cost to both employees and employers.
• Employer-Centric Benefits: Companies that offer earned wage access see stronger recruitment appeal and improved retention, as employees value immediate access to their earnings.
• Financial Well-Being and Productivity: Enhanced financial wellness reduces stress, giving employees more focus at work and improving overall productivity.
• Reduced Absenteeism: Access to earned wages helps employees manage unexpected expenses promptly, leading to fewer absences.
• Increased Employee Engagement: When financial worries are minimized, employees show greater involvement and commitment to their work.
• Support for Lower-Income Workers: This model particularly benefits those in lower-income brackets who are most affected by financial instability.

Quote of the Show:

• "I think the key thing with earned wage access versus historical products that were paycheck advances or payday loans is the lending is done only against wages that are earned, not against the paycheck overall." - Shirish Lal

Links:

• Website: https://gritfinancial.org/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shirishlal/

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XThTdn7YC1lkAm0PgZUkj  
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent/id1725890976 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/328dddd0-3c4f-4b07-a0d3-13bdcb418486/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent?refMarker=null 
• Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/Mission-to-Grow-A-Small-Business-Guide-to-Cash-Compliance-and-the-War-for-Talent-Podcast/B0CS71KQFM?qid=1706208857&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=A1ME8MBECSVZ6K4D7CNT&pageLoadId=QBtg12mqKsuZPLGY&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/mission-to-grow-a-small-busine-5591006 
• Transistor: https://missiontogrow.asuresoftware.com/ 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AsureSoftware 

In this episode, we dive into the complexities surrounding garnishments in the workplace, including the differences between wage garnishments and wage assignments, how employers should handle multiple garnishments and the legal implications of terminating an employee due to garnishment. Our guest Brian Shenker shares expert advice on how to navigate these situations while ensuring compliance with federal and state laws.

Takeaways:

• Employers must follow the garnishment order carefully to avoid legal consequences, including paying off an employee's judgment if done incorrectly.
• Federal and state laws: Employers need to be aware of both federal guidelines and state-specific laws, which can vary.
• Garnishment calculation:
  • Maximum garnishment: The CCPA caps garnishments at the lesser of 25% of disposable income or the amount by which weekly disposable income exceeds 30 times the federal minimum wage.
  • Disposable income: Defined as earnings after legally required deductions (like taxes, Social Security), not after voluntary deductions like health insurance or retirement contributions.
  • Garnishments are not allowed for employees with disposable earnings of $217 or less per week.
  • For earnings above that threshold, only a portion (25%) of the disposable income is subject to garnishment.
• Commissions and bonuses: These also fall under the garnishment rules. Commission-based employees are subject to garnishment just like salaried workers, but their earnings can vary, making the calculation more complex.
• Fringe benefits: Generally, fringe benefits like free daycare are not considered part of the garnishable income.
• Independent contractors: The CCPA typically applies to employees, but some states extend garnishment protections to independent contractors as well. Employers should not ignore garnishment orders for independent contractors, even if state laws vary on this issue.

Quote of the Show:

• “What the CCPA wants to do is make sure that not too much is being taken out from a debtor's paycheck each week, because that then just results in more financial issues and more strains.” - Brian Shenker

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-shenker-53708712/ 
• Company Website: http://www.jacksonlewis.com 

Ways to Tune In:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XThTdn7YC1lkAm0PgZUkj  
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent/id1725890976 
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/328dddd0-3c4f-4b07-a0d3-13bdcb418486/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent?refMarker=null 
• Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/Mission-to-Grow-A-Small-Business-Guide-to-Cash-Compliance-and-the-War-for-Talent-Podcast/B0CS71KQFM?qid=1706208857&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=A1ME8MBECSVZ6K4D7CNT&pageLoadId=QBtg12mqKsuZPLGY&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c 
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/mission-to-grow-a-small-busine-5591006 
• Transistor: https://missiontogrow.asuresoftware.com/ 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AsureSoftware