Most Popular

FMLA Substitution Rules: Not as Simple as They Seem

FMLA basics are confusing enough. And then each aspect—substitution, bonuses, holidays, etc.—seems to have its own tricky twist. Let’s let the “FMLA Bible” sort it out. Substitution Required? Notice Required Employees may choose to substitute accrued paid leave for FMLA, or the company can require it. (Many do.) However, it’s not quite as simple as […]

‘Occasionally’ Providing Meals to Employees — What Does it Mean for Employer Tax Compliance?

How can an employer best determine whether employer-provided meals qualify as de minimis fringe benefits under the federal tax code? The employer must take into account how frequently the meals or meal money are provided, either on an employee-by-employee basis, or on the basis of the work force as a whole. Then, how should an […]

Criticism

Managing Employee Monitoring

In a previous post, we discussed some survey results from a recent Blind report, which showed that 25.8% of employees feel their employers go to unreasonable lengths to monitor their online activity. Blind also cited research from SAGE, which shows that two-thirds of employers utilize some form of electronic monitoring of employees.

Dealing with mental disabilities in the workplace

by Jonathan Mook These days, the news is filled with stories of returning veterans who suffer from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other mental impairments and have problems adjusting to civilian life at home and in the workplace. The issues employers face when dealing with veterans and other employees with mental disorders were put on […]

FMLA: Does Texting Apply Under Call-In Policy?

By Steve Jones If you have an attendance policy that requires employees to follow a certain procedure to notify management of absences but you occasionally receive notice in a way that isn’t specified in the policy (e.g., a text instead of a phone call), you should make sure you’re consistent in accepting or refusing the […]