Resources

February 23, 2026
Payroll tax accuracy and benefits enrollment processes create significant employer liability when systems are not configured correctly or when processes are not followed consistently. Common issues include incorrect state withholding for remote employees, failure to stop Social Security withholding at the wage base limit, and benefits enrollment gaps that leave employees without coverage. COBRA administration remains a high risk area due to strict notice timelines and documentation requirements. Leaders should review payroll settings for remote workers, monitor wage base limits, and confirm that benefits enrollment and COBRA processes are documented and followed consistently.

February 16, 2026
Wage rates across the Southeast remain stable, with most states following the federal minimum of $7.25 per hour and Virginia maintaining $12.41 with a path to $15. Health insurance premiums are rising at 7 to 8 percent annually across the region, driven by medical costs, pharmacy expenses, and mental health parity requirements. Employers should review contribution strategies, evaluate cost sharing models, and confirm mental health parity compliance before mid year planning begins. Multi state employers face added complexity managing benefit cost consistency across locations with varying premium growth rates.

February 11, 2026
AI generated employee handbooks and policies create significant legal risk because AI tools cannot assess jurisdiction specific obligations, customize content to actual business operations, or flag discriminatory or unenforceable language. Open source AI models carry additional risk due to lack of oversight and accountability. Business owners should treat AI generated employment documentation as a rough draft only and should always have policies reviewed by an employment attorney before distribution to employees. Improper reliance on AI for legal compliance can result in costly claims and enforcement actions.

February 9, 2026
This update highlights payroll and classification risks that continue to affect employers across the Southeast. Leaders should focus on confirming payroll threshold accuracy, reviewing benefit administration practices, and ensuring worker classifications are applied consistently across locations. Action required this week is to review payroll settings for higher earners and confirm classification decisions are documented and defensible.

July 30, 2025
New laws in Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Rhode Island, and Puerto Rico are reshaping how employers handle pay transparency, sick leave, accommodations, and more. With federal deregulation also on the horizon, staying informed is key to compliance. This blog breaks down the changes and what employers should do next.

July 23, 2025
Rapid growth can strain your people operations, putting culture, compliance, and employee experience at risk. This post outlines five practical ways to scale HR intentionally—from strengthening onboarding systems to equipping managers and staying human-centered. If you're growing fast, these strategies can help you grow smart.

January 14, 2025
Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries, making AI skills essential for organizational success. Key skills like machine learning, natural language processing, and data analysis help drive innovation, while expertise in AI ethics, cloud computing, and change management ensures sustainable integration. By prioritizing these skills, businesses can leverage AI to improve efficiency, enhance decision-making, and create competitive advantages.

January 7, 2025
Quiet quitting, where employees disengage and do only the minimum required, impacts productivity and team dynamics. This blog outlines its root causes, like burnout and lack of growth opportunities, while offering actionable solutions such as wellness initiatives and career development. By fostering engagement, companies can boost morale, productivity, and retention effectively.

December 3, 2024
Workplace culture plays a critical role in driving team engagement, influencing everything from productivity to retention. In this blog, we explore how a strong culture fosters inclusivity, recognition, and purpose, creating an environment where employees thrive. Learn actionable strategies to build a culture that inspires and empowers your team.