Mission to Grow: A Small Business Guide to Cash, Compliance, and the War for Talent

HR Roadmap for Growth Series - Getting Serious About Compliance - Mission to Grow: A Small Business Guide to Cash, Compliance, and the War for Talent - Episode #133

Scaling to between 50 and 149 employees is a critical growth phase that brings new challenges in HR, compliance, and company culture. In this episode of MTG, Mike Vannoy, Mary Simmons, and Brian Shenker explore the essential strategies businesses need to navigate this transition successfully. From training managers and establishing structured HR processes to ensuring compliance with FMLA, ACA, and EEO reporting, they break down what it takes to maintain efficiency and legal adherence as your workforce expands. Tune in to learn how to build a strong HR foundation and prepare for the next stage of growth.  Takeaways: * As your company grows beyond 50 employees, it's essential to set up a dedicated HR function. This will ensure compliance with labor laws, streamline HR processes, and maintain productivity.  * The founder's direct influence on company culture diminishes as the company grows. It's crucial to train managers to manage both people and processes, ensuring that they maintain and propagate the established culture effectively.  * If you have 50 or more employees within a 75-mile radius, you must comply with the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA). This includes understanding eligibility, managing leave requests, and ensuring employees can return to their positions after leave. * Companies with 50 or more full-time equivalent employees must offer health coverage that meets ACA standards. Understanding how to calculate full-time equivalents is critical. * If you sponsor retirement and health plans, you may need to file Form 5500 with the IRS, especially if you have more than 100 participants. Work with your plan administrator or service provider to ensure accurate and timely filing to avoid penalties. * When your company reaches 100 employees, you are required to submit EEO-1 reports, which include demographic data. This helps in maintaining compliance with federal non-discrimination laws.  * Stay informed about changes to affirmative action requirements, especially regarding DEI practices. Recent executive orders might affect compliance requirements for federal contractors. Regularly review and update your HR policies to ensure they meet current regulations and best practices. Quote of the Show: * "If you're making a mistake in HR now, it might not just be affecting one person. It might be a whole group of employees, which exponentially increases that exposure"  Links: * Asure Software: https://www.asuresoftware.com/ [https://www.asuresoftware.com/]  * Mary’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marysimmonshrconsultant/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/marysimmonshrconsultant/]   * Brian’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-shenker-53708712/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-shenker-53708712/]   * Brian’s Company Website: http://www.jacksonlewis.com [http://www.jacksonlewis.com]  * FMLA Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7a_4r61Vm4&t=1s [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7a_4r61Vm4&t=1s]  Ways to Tune In: * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XThTdn7YC1lkAm0PgZUkj [https://open.spotify.com/show/2XThTdn7YC1lkAm0PgZUkj]   * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent/id1725890976 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent/id1725890976]  * Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/328dddd0-3c4f-4b07-a0d3-13bdcb418486/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent?refMarker=null [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/328dddd0-3c4f-4b07-a0d3-13bdcb418486/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent?refMarker=null]  * Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/Mission-to-Grow-A-Small-Business-Guide-to-Cash-Compliance-and-the-War-for-Talent-Podcast/B0CS71KQFM?qid=1706208857&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=A1ME8MBECSVZ6K4D7CNT&pageLoadId=QBtg12mqKsuZPLGY&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c [https://www.audible.com/pd/Mission-to-Grow-A-Small-Business-Guide-to-Cash-Compliance-and-the-War-for-Talent-Podcast/B0CS71KQFM?qid=1706208857&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=A1ME8MBECSVZ6K4D7CNT&pageLoadId=QBtg12mqKsuZPLGY&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c]  * Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/mission-to-grow-a-small-busine-5591006 [https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/mission-to-grow-a-small-busine-5591006]

Unlocking the Power of 401K:  What Small Business Owners Need to Know for Growth and Retention - Mission to Grow: A Small Business Guide to Cash, Compliance, and the War for Talent - Episode # 132

How can small businesses take advantage of Secure Act 2.0 tax credits to set up a 401k plan, attract and retain employees, and stay compliant with state mandates? In this episode, we’re diving into why 401k plans are a game-changer for small businesses. Many assume retirement plans are only for large corporations, but that’s no longer the case. With recent legislation like Secure Act 2.0 offering significant tax credits, setting up a 401k is more accessible and beneficial than ever. Joined by Charlie Cote from JP Morgan and Kevin Gaston from Vestwell, we’ll explore how small businesses can leverage these plans to attract and retain top talent, comply with evolving state mandates, and even build personal wealth as business owners.  Takeaways: * Take full advantage of the significant tax credits available under Secure Act 2.0 for setting up and maintaining a 401k plan. These credits can help offset costs and even match employee contributions, making the plan financially feasible for your business. * Work with modern 401k providers that offer streamlined setup and automated processes. Look for features like payroll integration that reduce the administrative burden on your business. * Opt for providers that offer co-fiduciary services to share the fiduciary responsibilities. This can minimize your liability and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements without overwhelming you with paperwork. * Stay informed about state-level mandates that require businesses to offer retirement plans. Proactively setting up a 401k can help you avoid future penalties and comply with local regulations. * Use vesting schedules and employer-matching contributions as tools to attract and retain top talent. These features not only make your benefits package more competitive but also provide incentives for employees to stay with your company longer. * Educate your employees about the benefits of participating in a 401k plan, including tax advantages and long-term financial security. An informed workforce is more likely to engage and take advantage of the benefits offered. Quote of the Show: * " You can get wealth creation and employee retention within your 401k plan if you design it the right way." - Charlie Cote Links: * Charlie’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-cote-25202b20/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-cote-25202b20/]  * Kevin’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevingaston/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevingaston/]  * Vestwell: https://www.vestwell.com/ [https://www.vestwell.com/]  * J.P. Morgan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jpmorganassetmanagement/about/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/jpmorganassetmanagement/about/]  Ways to Tune In: * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XThTdn7YC1lkAm0PgZUkj [https://open.spotify.com/show/2XThTdn7YC1lkAm0PgZUkj]   * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent/id1725890976 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent/id1725890976]  * Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/328dddd0-3c4f-4b07-a0d3-13bdcb418486/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent?refMarker=null [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/328dddd0-3c4f-4b07-a0d3-13bdcb418486/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent?refMarker=null]  * Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/Mission-to-Grow-A-Small-Business-Guide-to-Cash-Compliance-and-the-War-for-Talent-Podcast/B0CS71KQFM?qid=1706208857&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=A1ME8MBECSVZ6K4D7CNT&pageLoadId=QBtg12mqKsuZPLGY&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c [https://www.audible.com/pd/Mission-to-Grow-A-Small-Business-Guide-to-Cash-Compliance-and-the-War-for-Talent-Podcast/B0CS71KQFM?qid=1706208857&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=A1ME8MBECSVZ6K4D7CNT&pageLoadId=QBtg12mqKsuZPLGY&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c]  * Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/mission-to-grow-a-small-busine-5591006 [https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/mission-to-grow-a-small-busine-5591006]

HR Roadmap for Growth Series: What are HR Priorities for 16-49 Employees - Mission to Grow: A Small Business Guide to Cash, Compliance, and the War for Talent - Episode #131

What does it take to scale a small business from 16 to 50 employees while maintaining compliance, culture, and efficiency? In this week’s episode of Mission To Grow, host Mike Vannoy leads a compelling panel discussion on scaling small businesses from 16 to 50 employees. Joined by HR experts Mary Simmons, Heather James, and Chris Cooley, the episode dives into the challenges and solutions of this pivotal growth phase. Topics include the importance of consistent processes, compliance with complex HR laws, effective recruitment strategies, and the role of HR tools like HRIS systems in ensuring smooth operations. Tune in for actionable insights to help your business navigate this transformative stage with confidence.  Takeaways: * Scale your best practices by developing and sticking to well-defined and repeatable processes. Consistency in HR activities is crucial to successfully scaling your business. * Utilize background checks for all employees and ensure you have policies and procedures in place to comply with adverse action laws. Keep your business safe by managing risks effectively. * To attract and retain talent, consider offering creative, cost-effective benefits like HSAs, FSAs, and pet insurance. Even small perks can make a significant impact on employee satisfaction. * Be proactive in understanding and complying with federal, state, and municipal laws affecting your business. Make sure you’re aware of requirements related to ADA, GINA, PDA, and COBRA, among others. * Invest in HRIS and payroll systems to automate processes and ensure compliance. These tools are indispensable for maintaining accurate records, managing employee information, and ensuring timely tax submissions. * Consider working with HR consultants or services to audit your HR practices and provide ongoing guidance. This external expertise can help you navigate complex compliance issues and implement best HR practices. Quote of the Show: * " You need people that align to your mission, your vision, your values, and that are going to help you grow your business." - Mike Vannoy Links: * Assure’s Website: https://www.asuresoftware.com/ [https://www.asuresoftware.com/]   * eBook: https://offers.asuresoftware.com/hubfs/E-Books/Asure_HR_Roadmap_Guide24%20Nov%202023.pdf  [https://offers.asuresoftware.com/hubfs/E-Books/Asure_HR_Roadmap_Guide24%20Nov%202023.pdf] * MyHRScreens Website: http://www.myhrconcierge.com [http://www.myhrconcierge.com]  * Mary’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marysimmonshrconsultant/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/marysimmonshrconsultant/]  * Chris’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ccooley1/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/ccooley1/]  * Heather’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-james-4a727b16/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-james-4a727b16/]  Ways to Tune In: * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XThTdn7YC1lkAm0PgZUkj [https://open.spotify.com/show/2XThTdn7YC1lkAm0PgZUkj]   * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent/id1725890976 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent/id1725890976]  * Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/328dddd0-3c4f-4b07-a0d3-13bdcb418486/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent?refMarker=null [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/328dddd0-3c4f-4b07-a0d3-13bdcb418486/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent?refMarker=null]  * Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/Mission-to-Grow-A-Small-Business-Guide-to-Cash-Compliance-and-the-War-for-Talent-Podcast/B0CS71KQFM?qid=1706208857&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=A1ME8MBECSVZ6K4D7CNT&pageLoadId=QBtg12mqKsuZPLGY&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c [https://www.audible.com/pd/Mission-to-Grow-A-Small-Business-Guide-to-Cash-Compliance-and-the-War-for-Talent-Podcast/B0CS71KQFM?qid=1706208857&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=A1ME8MBECSVZ6K4D7CNT&pageLoadId=QBtg12mqKsuZPLGY&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c]  * Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/mission-to-grow-a-small-busine-5591006 [https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/mission-to-grow-a-small-busine-5591006]

HR Roadmap for Growth Series: Getting Hiring & Payroll Right for 1-15 Employees - Mission to Grow: A Small Business Guide to Cash, Compliance, and the War for Talent - Episode #130

How can small businesses with 1 to 15 employees avoid costly payroll errors, attract the right talent, and ensure compliance while building a strong company culture? In this week’s episode of Mission To Grow, host Mike Vannoy leads a panel discussion on essential HR practices for small businesses with 1 to 15 employees. Featuring insights from experts Jessica Small, Scott Petersen, and Mary Simmons, the conversation covers payroll accuracy, hiring strategies, compliance, employee engagement, and the importance of leveraging the right tools and systems. Tune in for actionable advice to streamline HR processes, foster employee satisfaction, and set your business up for success. Takeaways: * Ensuring accurate data entry (e.g., social security numbers, birth dates) is crucial for avoiding payroll errors. Mistakes can lead to significant issues like delayed payments, misfiled taxes, and hefty penalties.  * Focus on defining and communicating your company's culture and values. This not only attracts the right talent but also ensures that new hires align with your vision. * Adhering to federal and state laws is not just about avoiding penalties but also about fostering employee trust and satisfaction. Compliance with regulations ensures a fair and transparent working environment. * A smooth and comprehensive onboarding process sets the tone for the employee experience. Use digital tools to minimize redundancy and ensure all necessary paperwork, like I-9 verification, is completed accurately and timely. * Use integrated systems for payroll, time tracking, and HR management to save time and reduce errors. These tools not only improve efficiency but also give you access to valuable data for better decision-making. * A well-crafted employee handbook is essential for setting clear expectations and providing a reference for both employees and employers. Consistency in policies helps avoid misunderstandings. * Get creative with benefits to attract and retain talent, especially if you can't offer extensive health benefits. Consider flexible work hours, pay cards, or on-demand pay options. Quote of the Show: * " Give somebody the reason why they should work for you." - Mary Simmons Links: * Assure’s Website: https://www.asuresoftware.com/ [https://www.asuresoftware.com/]  * Hireclick’s Website: https://employers.hireclick.com/ [https://employers.hireclick.com/]  * Scott’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottcpetersen/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottcpetersen/]  * Mary’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marysimmonshrconsultant/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/marysimmonshrconsultant/]  * Jessica’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-small-214720259/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-small-214720259/]  Ways to Tune In: * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XThTdn7YC1lkAm0PgZUkj [https://open.spotify.com/show/2XThTdn7YC1lkAm0PgZUkj]   * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent/id1725890976 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent/id1725890976]  * Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/328dddd0-3c4f-4b07-a0d3-13bdcb418486/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent?refMarker=null [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/328dddd0-3c4f-4b07-a0d3-13bdcb418486/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent?refMarker=null]  * Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/Mission-to-Grow-A-Small-Business-Guide-to-Cash-Compliance-and-the-War-for-Talent-Podcast/B0CS71KQFM?qid=1706208857&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=A1ME8MBECSVZ6K4D7CNT&pageLoadId=QBtg12mqKsuZPLGY&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c [https://www.audible.com/pd/Mission-to-Grow-A-Small-Business-Guide-to-Cash-Compliance-and-the-War-for-Talent-Podcast/B0CS71KQFM?qid=1706208857&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=A1ME8MBECSVZ6K4D7CNT&pageLoadId=QBtg12mqKsuZPLGY&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c]  Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/mission-to-grow-a-small-busine-5591006 [https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/mission-to-grow-a-small-busine-5591006]

Entity Classification: Exploring the Benefits and Risks of S Corps - Mission to Grow: A Small Business Guide to Cash, Compliance, and the War for Talent - Episode # 129

What are the tax advantages and compliance challenges of switching to an S Corporation, and how can business owners decide if it's the right move for their company? This week on Mission to Grow, Mike Vannoy sits down with Jason Blumer, CEO of Blummer & Associates, for an insightful discussion on S Corporations. Together, they explore the advantages of S Corp classification, including significant tax savings, while unpacking the complexities of compliance, payroll, and legal considerations. Whether you're an entrepreneur weighing the shift from an LLC or a sole proprietorship, or a small business owner striving to optimize your tax strategy, this episode is brimming with expert advice and practical tips to help you make informed decisions. Don’t miss this deep dive into the world of S Corps! Takeaways: *  Assess your business profits to determine if you're consistently gaining above $80,000 to $100,000 annually. This is crucial for considering more strategic tax classifications. * If your profits are within the suggested range, consult with your accountant to elect your business as an S Corporation (S Corp) to gain significant tax benefits. * Establish a payroll system, ensuring you pay yourself a reasonable salary as mandated by the IRS. This action can reduce your tax burden significantly. * Engage professional services for payroll, accounting, and tax filings. Avoid handling these complexities on your own to prevent costly mistakes and ensure compliance. * Learn the difference between legal entity formations (LLC, corporation) and their tax classifications (S Corp, C Corp, Schedule C) to make informed decisions for your business structure.  * Continuously monitor your business’s profitability to ensure you are optimizing your tax strategy yearly. This might involve readjusting payroll or exploring additional savings opportunities in your operations. Quote of the Show: * " You want to get into an entity that's actually going to be best for you and very tax efficient, and lets you think about growing from there." - Jason Blumer Links: * Website: https://blumercpas.com/who-we-are/jason-blumer/ [https://blumercpas.com/who-we-are/jason-blumer/]  * Jason’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonblumer/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonblumer/]  Ways to Tune In: * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XThTdn7YC1lkAm0PgZUkj [https://open.spotify.com/show/2XThTdn7YC1lkAm0PgZUkj]   * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent/id1725890976 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent/id1725890976]  * Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/328dddd0-3c4f-4b07-a0d3-13bdcb418486/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent?refMarker=null [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/328dddd0-3c4f-4b07-a0d3-13bdcb418486/mission-to-grow-a-small-business-guide-to-cash-compliance-and-the-war-for-talent?refMarker=null]  * Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/Mission-to-Grow-A-Small-Business-Guide-to-Cash-Compliance-and-the-War-for-Talent-Podcast/B0CS71KQFM?qid=1706208857&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=A1ME8MBECSVZ6K4D7CNT&pageLoadId=QBtg12mqKsuZPLGY&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c [https://www.audible.com/pd/Mission-to-Grow-A-Small-Business-Guide-to-Cash-Compliance-and-the-War-for-Talent-Podcast/B0CS71KQFM?qid=1706208857&sr=1-1&ref_pageloadid=not_applicable&ref=a_search_c3_lProduct_1_1&pf_rd_p=83218cca-c308-412f-bfcf-90198b687a2f&pf_rd_r=A1ME8MBECSVZ6K4D7CNT&pageLoadId=QBtg12mqKsuZPLGY&creativeId=0d6f6720-f41c-457e-a42b-8c8dceb62f2c]  * Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/mission-to-grow-a-small-busine-5591006 [https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/mission-to-grow-a-small-busine-5591006]