It's Not Too Late For 2008 Retirement Plans

Just because 2008 is over you can still impact your 2008 tax situation with retirement plan contributions. Check out the tidbits below you may not be aware of. They could be helpful to you or to someone you love.        More...

Eight Annuity Myths Exposed!

A new report reveals annuity critics are often biased and incorrect in their perceptions of annuities. While annuities have played a crucial role in retirement planning throughout most of the last century,  this latest account reveals that the average consumer is now ten times more likely to be fed information designed to discourage annuity purchase rather than encourage it. Unlike other investments, annuities are designed to provide a reasonable rate of growth while preventing the loss of principal.     More...

Bad Economy Makes Business Owners Targets of Employee Lawsuits

It’s no surprise that when the economy takes a nose dive, people get extremely anxious about money.  And what do we do in this country when we are low on cash?  That’s right, WE SUE! All of a sudden seemingly normal people start paying closer attention to all those lawyer ads on TV.  After all, somebody must be responsible for this.   Since most lawyers know that suing the government is a big waste of time (and money), who is the most logical choice?  Why employers, of course.

The Top 6 Workers Comp Insider Secrets

For most organizations, employee related costs are one of the biggest drains on the bottom line.  And workers compensation insurance is often the main drain. Unlike the price of gas, however, understanding these six workers compensation insurance industry secrets can help owners and managers aggressively control these costs.  So what are they?    More...

The Not So Independant Contractor

Employers who willfully choose not to carry workers comp on their employees are subject to both criminal and civil penalties.  The employer also loses its immunity from employee initiated lawsuits.  All in all, the downside of non-compliance is generally unpleasant enough to get most organizations to comply.   More...

Using “Illegal” Subcontractors Makes You a Target for Prosecution

Of all the employment issues we advise our clients on, the subject of proper hiring practices is becoming more and more critical.  Just the other day in Des Moines, Iowa, 390 people were arrested for immigration violations at a meatpacking plant.   According to ICE (US Immigration and Customs Enforcement) this was the largest workplace raid in US history.  The Associated Press reports that the raid was aimed at seeking evidence of identity theft, stolen Social Security numbers, and people who are in the country illegally.   More...