On December 11^th, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued the first emergency use authorization for the COVID-19 vaccine.   As employers decide their path forward, there are many considerations that should be taken into account such as medical and religious accommodations, workplace safety, employee morale and more.

On December 11^th, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued the first emergency use authorization for the COVID-19 vaccine.   Before employers decide whether to vaccinate or not, there are many considerations that should be taken into account such as medical and religious accommodations, workplace safety, employee morale, and more. 

Many employees are working remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic and government orders restricting travel and normal workplace operations. Because remote employees aren't clocking in and out at the employer's physical premises, it's increasingly important for employers to ensure that their timekeeping and pay practices comply with federal, state, and local requirements.

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has recently published guidance (Field Assistance Bulletin 2020-5) that addresses federal rules for paying remote workers. While the guidance doesn't carry the same weight as a regulation or law, it demonstrates how the DOL intends to enforce federal wage and hour requirements. Below are four key takeaways from the guidance.

Applicable Large Employers (ALEs), employers with an average of at least 50 full-time employees (including full-time equivalents) in the prior calendar year (2019) need to file Forms 1094-C and 1095-C with the IRS.  If you are an ALE, we recommend you review your forms immediately and acknowledge that you would like ADP TotalSource to file the forms on your behalf.

Applicable Large Employers (ALEs), employers with an average of at least 50 full-time employees (including full-time equivalents) in the prior calendar year (2019) need to file Forms 1094-C and 1095-C with the IRS.  If you are an ALE, we recommend you review your forms immediately and acknowledge that you would like ADP TotalSource to file the forms on your behalf.

Furloughs can be an effective way to cut costs during times of decreased business activity. However, employers should think through the decision carefully with special attention paid to pay, benefits, and other issues. Here are answers to frequently asked questions related to furloughs.