IRS Announces 2017 Retirement Plan Contribution Limits | Virginia Benefit Advisors

On October 27, 2016, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) released Notice 2016-62 announcing cost-of-living adjustments affecting dollar limitations for pension plans and other retirement-related items for tax year 2017. Many pension plan limitations will not change in 2017 because the increase in the cost-of-living index did not meet the statutory thresholds that trigger their adjustment. … Continued

OSHA Updates Recommended Practices for Safety and Health Programs Guidelines | VA Benefit Advisors

On October 21, 2016, the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) released a set of Recommended Practices for Safety and Health Programs to update OSHA’s 1989 guidelines. The updates reflect the countless changes in the economy, workplaces, and evolving safety and health issues since its first release 30 years ago. The Recommended Practices combine … Continued

DOL Issues Final Rule Requiring Paid Sick Leave for Some Federal Contractor Employees | VA Employee Benefits

Affirmative Action Alert, October 3, 2016 On Friday, the U.S. Department of Labor published its Final Rule to implement Executive Order 13706, Establishing Paid Sick Leave for Federal Contractors. President Obama issued the Executive Order on Labor Day 2015, and the Department of Labor issued a proposed rule in February 2016. After receiving more than 35,000 comments, the DOL made … Continued

Transitional Reinsurance (TRP) Contribution Form Due November 15 | VA Employee Benefits

On October 3, 2016, federal officials posted the 2016 Transitional Reinsurance Program Annual Enrollment Contributions Form that health insurers and self-funded plan sponsors (employers) will use to make required payments under the Transitional Reinsurance Program (TRP). The 2016 report is due no later than November 15, 2016. Background The Affordable Care Act (ACA) prohibits insurers … Continued

4 Easy Ways to Step Up Your Employee Wellness Program | Virginia Benefit Advisors

Employee Wellness Programs are a key factor in employee engagement and overall company success in today’s business world. Wellness programs are consistently evolving and changing as employee demands shift. Companies are constantly looking for new ways to engage and encourage their employees, preferably at a lower cost. Below are some effective and cost-efficient ways to … Continued

Finally, a New I-9 | Virginia Employee Benefits

Since the current version of the Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, expired on March 31, 2016, employers have been awaiting a new, updated form. On August 25, 2016, the federal Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approved a revised Form I-9. Consequently, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has 90 days to update the form … Continued