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Many employers refer to independent contractors as "1099" workers and employees as "W-2" workers after the IRS forms used for federal reporting purposes. However, simply providing a worker a 1099 Form doesn't make them an independent contractor. The classification must always be made on the basis of whether the worker meets federal and state tests for independent contractor status. Different tests are used to determine whether a worker is covered by a particular law or benefit. The following is an overview of some of these tests.

New York enacted legislation (Assembly Bill A8947C), which added workplace violence prevention requirements for employers. New York has also enacted legislation (Senate Bill S740), to help clarify these requirements. The laws’ workplace violence prevention policy and training requirements take effect on June 2, 2025 and the silence response button (SRB) requirements take effect on Jan. 1, 2027.

On Jan. 15, 2025, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issued guidance via Revenue Ruling 2025-4 (RR 2025-4) on the federal income and employment tax treatment of contributions and benefits paid in certain situations under a state paid family and medical leave program (SPFML), as well as the related reporting requirements. RR 2025-4 provides guidance to the District of Columbia and states that have mandatory paid family and medical leave programs, and for employees working in and employers operating in those states.

One of the most difficult aspects of being an employer is terminating an employee. At times, it's a necessary decision for the best interests of the business, but it requires special care. When faced with an employee termination, consider using a checklist, such as the one provided here, to help you manage the employee termination process.

Michigan has enacted a law that requires employers to display a notice about resources available to veterans. The new poster requirement takes effect April 2, 2025.

Nevada enacted legislation (Assembly Bill 259), which phases out the ability for employers to pay a subminimum wage to employees with disabilities in the state. The goal of the law is to eliminate the use of the subminimum wage in Nevada by Jan. 1, 2028.