Stay up to date with Keena Staffing news. http://keena.com In observance of Memorial Day, KEENA's office will be closed Monday, May 27th. If your pay day falls on Monday or Tuesday, in order to process your payroll in a timely manner and ensure direct deposit, please submit hours by 10:00 a.m. on Friday May 24th.If you have any questions, please call 518-793-9825.Have a safe and happy holiday weekend! http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=60 Please be advised that you are required to use the updated form I-9 effective May 8th. The New Hire pack and stand alone form have been updated on the forms page for your use. Please contact us with any questions! http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=59 New York State's Social Security Number Protection Law went into effect on December 12, 2012. The law provides that employers are prohibited from requiring an individual to disclose or furnish his or her Social Security number for "any purpose in connection with any activity." However, there are instances where the request will continue to be legal such as for tax compliance and verification of identity. To read more about this law click here. If you have any question, please let us know. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=57 An important training session for all owners/managers who submit payroll hours for processing. Topics covered will include: Resources available via www.keena.com How to download and use the time entry system Demonstration of online viewing of paystubs and employee information When: Tuesday March 12th - 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Where: Keena, 2 Progress Blvd., Queensbury, NY Please register no later than March 7th via e-mail to jackief@keena.com. Feel free to call with any questions. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=56 The IRS has announced that the business standard mileage rate for 2013 will increase by 1 cent to 56.5 cents per mile. The rate for moving and medical purposes will also increase by 1 cent to 24 cents, while the mileage rate for charitable purposes, which is set by law, will remain at 14 cents [Notice 2012-72]. It is important to note that you are not required to reimburse your employees at the IRS rate, you may reimburse them according to your policy. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=55 Where: Courtyard Marriott, 11 Excelsior Ave., Saratoga Springs, NY (518-226-0538) When: OSHA 10 - Tuesday, February 12, 2013, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM and Wednesday, February 13, 2013, 8:30 AM – 12:30PM OSHA 30 - Tuesday, February 12, 2013 – Friday, February 15, 20138:00 AM – 5:00PMContact: Dorsey Health and Safety Consulting at 814-571-8148, Queensbury, NY Topics covered include the following: Walking and Working Surfaces, including fall protection Exit Routes, Emergency Action Plans, Fire Prevention Plans, and Fire Protection Electrical Lock out / Tag out The New Globally Harmonized System for chemicals and Hazard Communication Hazardous Materials Materials Handling Machine Guarding Introduction to Industrial Hygiene Bloodborne Pathogens Ergonomics Respiratory Protection / PPE To register: Contact Dorsey Health and Safety Consulting at 814-571-8148 or dorseyhsc@roadrunner.com. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=54 The Postal Service is revising Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM®), to reflect changes to prices and mailing standards for the following competitive products: Express Mail®, Priority Mail®, First-Class Package Service™, Parcel Select®, Parcel Post®, Extra Services, Return Services, Mailer Services, and Recipient Services." You can read more about the change by following this link www.USPS.com http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=53 On Sept. 8, 2012, Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed a much-anticipated law that amends Section 193 of the New York State Labor Law. This new law took efect November 7, 2012 and expanded the scope of permissible deductions from an employee’s wages. The new law, subject to renewal in three years, allows employers to deduct from an employee’s wages for the employee’s preauthorized personal activities (such as gym membership dues, certain child care expenses, etc.). This law also permits employers (with the employee’s written authorization) to recapture overpayments of the employee’s wages, as well as repayments for loans or advancements the employer made to the employee.More information regarding these and other permissible wage deductions can be found via the NYS Labor Department. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=52 The American Cancer Society is marking the 37th Great American Smokeout on November 15 by encouraging smokers to use the date to make a plan to quit, or to plan in advance and quit smoking that day. By quitting — even for one day — smokers will be taking an important step towards a healthier life – one that can lead to reducing cancer risk. Tobacco use remains the single largest preventable cause of disease and premature death in the US, yet more than 45 million Americans still smoke cigarettes. However, more than half of these smokers have attempted to quit for at least one day in the past year. As of 2010, there were also 13.2 million cigar smokers in the US, and 2.2 million who smoke tobacco in pipes. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=51 The holidays are fast approaching us and it may be a good time to reflect on your alcohol policy in the workplace and your holiday parties. Did you know alcohol is by far the most widely used drug in the United States. Estimates are that 11 percent of workers have a problem with alcohol. According to the National Institutes of Health, alcohol abuse alone cost American businesses roughly $86.3 billion in lost productivity due to alcohol-related illness and death. When planning your holiday party keep the following things in mind. Alcohol at work celebrations can be well-intended but an expensive mistake. In some states, social host laws can find the company responsible if an employee drinks too much at the company social event and then injures himself or another person. Employers also need to be concerned that they may be facilitating sexual harassment. If you are planning to serve alcohol at a company sponsored event, then follow some basic rules: Check your insurance to see whether it covers third-party liquor availability. Have and enforce a drink limit. Serve food. Have plenty of soft drinks available. Have the party outside the office in premises with licensed servers. Ensure your employees know the alcohol policy and that it covers office parties. Consider limiting drinks to a specific number of pre-issued drink tickets. Arrange for designate drivers or free taxi rides home for any employee desiring or needing one. Holiday parties are intended to be fun and a festive event for all. By following the above suggestions they can be!! Here’s to a happy and safe holiday season for everyone! http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=50 The IRS has announced cost-of-living adjustments affecting dollar limits for defined contribution and defined benefit retirement plans, as well as other items, for tax year 2013. Below are a few key changes for defined contribution plans.Effective January 1, 2013 The elective deferral (contribution) limit for employees who participate in 401(k), 403(b) and most 457 plans, or in the federal government’s Thrift Savings Plan, increases to $17,500 from $17,000.The amount of employee compensation limit that can be considered in calculating contributions to defined contribution plans increases to $255,000 from $250,000.The catch-up contribution limit for those age 50 and older remains unchanged at $5,500. The catch-up contribution may be made beginning Jan. 1, 2013, by participants who will reach age 50 at any time during the year. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=49 The single best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated each year, but good health habits like covering your cough and washing your hands often can help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu. There also are flu antiviral drugs that can be used to treat and prevent the flu. . If you would like to learn more about the Flu you can go to www.health.ny.gov Five top tips to avoid spreading the Flu 1. Avoid close contact.Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.2. Stay home when you are sick.If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.3. Cover your mouth and nose.Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.4. Clean your hands.Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.6. Practice other good health habits.Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=48 It’s no secret that today’s employment market has become overwhelmingly competitive. Employers look for candidates that will bring the most value to their business. The question is posed, “What characteristics are employers most looking for with potential hires?” To answer this question, various studies have shown the following employee traits to be the most commonly desired amongst employers:· Dependability-can be counted on; reliable· Flexibility-willing to take on new responsibilities· Takes initiative-does not wait to have duties assigned· Positive attitude-helpful; others enjoy working with· Motivated-eager for new learningPossessing these traits will help in gaining the all-important “competitive edge.” Do you have what it takes?? http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=47 Many employees already use direct deposit. They enjoy the freedom it gives them, and find it very convenient & beneficial. Money can be directed into one or more bank accounts electronically, distributing funds as you desire. It saves time & energy and eliminates the risk of lost checks. There is also a certain percentage of the population that has been resistant to direct deposit for various reasons. Both groups, but particularly the second group, may be interested in hearing more about paycards. Paycards offer an alternative payment method. They operate similiarly to a bank card, in that it looks just like a Visa card that is funded by your paycheck. There are differences that separate them from standard bank cards. Keena is currently discussing these benefits with different vendors, and in the near future will be choosing a company that will offer the best service to our customers. Once a vendor has been chosen, we will communicate which company it is, and all the benefits they will provide. We believe they will be a great addition to our Employer Toolkit & enhance the employee's pay experience. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=46 Until further notice, employers should continue using the Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, currently available on the USCIS forms page and on www.keena.com . This current version of the form continues to be effective even after the OMB control number expiration date of August 31, 2012 has passed. We will provide updated information about the new version of the Form I-9 as it becomes available. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=45 Save Money - Go Paperless Keena is dedicated to providing cost effective payroll processing for our clients. You can save money and time by choosing from the electronic payroll option(s) listed below:Electronic Transmission of ChecksDirect deposit is a wonderful benefit to your employees who can set up an unlimited number of bank accounts or split between one or more accounts to have their check deposited each week. Employees with direct deposit will be provided a username and password where they can view their paystubs online through our payroll service using the secure Darwinet website which is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from any computer connected to the internet.Internet Payroll Reporting/InvoicingThe payroll reports that are generated once the payroll is processed can be emailed directly to you avoiding the additional expense of delivery and waiting for the mail to arrive in a timely manner.Transmit your payroll hours any day or anytime by using our electronic timesheet which is a convenient way of entering payroll while also eliminating data entry/faxing communication errors. Once completed, simply email the timesheet to us, and we will prepare your payroll as if you had called or faxed in the hours.If you are interested in any of these electronic payroll options, please contact us for further details at 518-793-9825. Thank You,Tammy Folger http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=44 The weather is warmer, the sun is out and fresh air is abundant as we ready ourselves to “swing into summer”. These are all great motivating factors toward making healthy habits a part of our daily regimen, not only at home but in the workplace, as well. It’s widely understood that good health drives good work performance. With that in mind, some quick tips to remember for practicing a healthier lifestyle while at work: · Take walks during your breaks. Involve colleagues as you can mutually motivate and support each other.· If your workplace is located on an upper floor, take the stairs instead of the elevator.· Pack healthy snacks (fruits, vegetables) instead of purchasing chips, candy, etc.· Drink water as it not only keeps you hydrated but also helps to control your cravings.· If your workplace offers an on-site fitness area with fitness equipment available for use, definitely partake in it. Start today and enjoy a healthier lifestyle! http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=43 Attention contractors! We wanted to make you aware of the upcoming OSHA 10 Hour and OSHA 30 Hour training classes coming soon in Saratoga offered by Dorsey Health and Safety Consulting. Please see the information below, and register directly with Dorsey by calling 814-571-8148. OSHA 10 HourWhere: Courtyard Marriott, 11 Excelsior Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NYWhen: Monday, July 16th 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Tuesday, July 17th 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.Tuition: $150.00 per person, includes lunch on Monday and OSHA course materials (group discounts available)OSHA 30 HourWhere: Courtyard Marriott, 11 Excelsior Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NYWhen: Monday, August 13th through Friday August 17th Tuition: $599.00 per person, includes lunch on Monday and OSHA course materials (group discounts available) http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=42 Having an Emergency Plan enables your organization to evaluate its risks and prepare for unexpected occurrences that could harm workers, damage facilities or disrupt operations.A well designed emergency plan covers the following: Assesses likely emergencies, their causes and means of prevention Minimizes injury and loss of life Defines a chain of command during emergencies Maintains proper communications throughout the crisis Preserves rapid return to normal operation Prevents a total irretrievable lossFor more information on creating an emergency plan for your business please visit http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/evacuation/eap.html. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=41 Now that the spring season is here, many businesses will likely be hiring/rehiring teenagers to work, during this busy seasonal time. Please make sure you have current working papers for any minors working for you and keep them onsite at all times. Below are some general guidelines to help your teens obtain working papers. · Working papers are required for all students under 18. · Teens must go to their school guidance office to obtain and or update their working papers. They will need to complete an application and have a parent or guardian sign the application.· Working papers are divided into age groups. The 14-15 yr old working papers are blue (non factory work) and the 16-17 yr olds working papers are green (allowed to work in factory).If you have any questions or concerns regarding this topic, please contact our office. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=40 As we prepare for the busy summer season, please keep in mind that most J1 Visa foreign seasonal employees start employment before they have a social security number. Although they will be provided proof that they have applied for a SSN, their number will most likely not be issued until after they have started working. This is a friendly reminder to make sure you follow up with your J1 Visa employees to get the social security number from them and provide it to us as soon as they receive it. It causes a lot of issues if the employee leaves & we never get the SSN. If you have any questions, please let us know. To learn more please visit the official website of the U.S. Social Security Administration at http://www.ssa.gov/. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=39 National Nutrition Month is a nutrition education and information campaign created annually in March by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The campaign focuses attention on the importance of Making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits. For more information you can link on their website at www.eatright.org. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=38 As you are aware, state law currently requires that all New York employers provide all of their employees with annual written notice concerning their pay by February 1 of each year. They are also mandated to obtain employees' signatures on the notice and retain copies of the same for six years. Failure to comply with these requirements subjects employers to a penalty of $50 per employee.Proponents of the repeal are now one step closer to rescinding the annual notice provision. On February 29, 2012, the New York State Senate, with bi-partisan support, passed a bill repealing this provision. The State Assembly will now consider the bill.Proponents of the new bill argue that private sector employers are already required to provide employees with the very same detailed wage information on each paystub, rendering the WTPA’s wage notice duplicative and unnecessary. They also argue that because only a small percentage of employers have wage compliance issues, this annual notice should be reserved for those who fail to comply with the law. Unfortunately, this legislation comes too late for employers who have sent out their first round of annual wage notices but perhaps there will be relief next year. We will continue to update you on this important change. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=37 If you incorporate, add a shareholder, create an LLC, or make any change in your business structure or ownership please let us know. We can help ensure that all necessary notifications are sent to the appropriate agencies including insurance carriers and government entities. If you have any questions please contact us or stop by. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=36 In January Assemblyman Democrat Sheldon Silver introduced new legislation to increase New York State's minimum wage. The proposed law will increase the current $7.25 an hour to $8.50 an hour, a 17% increase. The bill also calls for the minimum wage to be adjusted each year for inflation. According to the National Employment Law Project, had minimum wage kept up with inflation, the standard should be at $10.39. Supporters say that a minimum wage increase could help bring low-income families out of poverty, stimulate economic growth and spur job creation. But opponents say it could hurt low-income earners and small businesses, by raising the cost of doing business, which could lead to layoffs. We will keep you posted on future developments with this proposed legislation. To be continued...... http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=35 Did you know the average American today is working about 2000 hours a year? This can lead to a lot of stress and a lack of motivation to perform well. Exercise along with a healthy diet gives employees the energy they need to get through the work day. It is been statistically proven that getting at least 30 minutes of continuous exercise during the day improves a person's mental and physical well being. Encourage your employees to exercise knowing they will perform their given responsibilities better! If you would like more information about this, here’s a good link to share with your employees: http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/features/exercise-at-your-desk http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=34 By a vote of 60 to 36, the Senate passed a bill earlier today to keep the Social Security payroll tax at its lower 4.2 percent rate through 2012 and President Barack Obama has promised to sign the legislation as soon as it reaches his desk. For example, a worker making $50,000 a year would pay $2,100 in Social Security taxes this year, instead of $3,100 if the tax were at its normal 6.2 percent level. Had the extension not been passed, employees would have seen a tax increase beginning in March. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=33 A Workers' Compensation audit is a mandatory, time-sensitive process that is becoming increasingly more detailed. Its primary purpose is for your business’ insurance carrier to adjust your workers' comp premium based on how closely your estimated payroll at the start of the policy period adequately reflects actual payroll by the end of the policy period. Employee records, payroll records, business operations records and certificates of insurance are just a few examples of resources requested during the audit process. It is imperative that upon receiving a Notice of Audit, your business contacts Keena as soon as possible. Keena will then be able to work on your behalf coordinating the request and reviewing the data prior to the scheduled audit date. Prior to any policy renewals, Keena will continue to contact their client companies to review any possible options that may better suit and reflect their specific business needs, taking into account factors of reduced premium, increased cash flow, or policy management. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=32 In today’s business world, many companies and organizations have come to rely on employment firms such as Keena to provide staffing in support of workplace variables that include internal growth, special projects, seasonal needs and leaves of absence. Keena offers an array of staffing services specifically tailored to your organization’s needs. These services include Temporary Staffing, Temp to Hire Staffing and Direct Hire Staffing. Some benefits in utilizing temporary staff initially include lower compensation-related costs, time efficiencies and financial savings toward your recruitment process and the opportunity to evaluate candidates’ performances prior to making any permanent employment commitments. For additional information regarding staffing solutions offered through Keena , please contact Dave Bodak, Staffing Specialist at 793-9825 or daveb@keena.com. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=31 In observance of President’s Day on Monday, February 20, 2012 most banks and the US Post Office will be closed. Keena will be open regular business hours 8 am – 5 pm. If your payday falls on a Tuesday or Wednesday, in order to process and mail your payroll in a timely manner and ensure direct deposit some deadlines have been changed. Please submit the hour’s by10:00 am Friday, February 17, 2012. Thank you for your cooperation in this matter. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to call (518) 793-9825. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=30 401(k) and 403(b) $17,000 401(k) and 403(b) contribution limit $5,500 401(k) and 403(b) 50+ catch-up limit Health Savings Account Single Plan Family Plan Max Contribution Limit $3,100 $6,250 Catch-up Contribution (55+) $1,000 $1,000 http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=29 In observance of Christmas Day & New Year's Day, Keena, along with most Banks & the US Post Office will be closed Monday December 26th and Monday January 2nd. In order to process your payroll in a timely manner and ensure direct deposit, some deadlines have been changed. If your payday falls on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday please submit hours by Thursday, December 22, 2011 for Christmas week and Thursday December 29, 2011 for New Year's week payroll. If you have any questions, please call (518) 793-9825. We wish you a safe and happy holiday season! http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=28 Ergonomics is the science of designing equipment, the workplace and even the job to best “fit” the worker. The five main principles of ergonomics are: safety, comfort, productivity & performance, ease of use and aesthetics. Proper ergonomics practiced in the workplace can reduce the potential for accidents, injury and ill health and improve productivity and heighten performance. Ergonomic problems can be indentified through a myriad of means, from simple observation to a thorough risk assessment. It’s important to consult with a qualified ergonomics expert to assist with the solution toward any ergonomics concern. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=24 Please be sure to provide us with the last day worked for your seasonal employees. It is especially important to pass along their forwarding addresses so that we have them for W-2s. Feel free to use our Employee Termination Form, and Employee Change Form to notify us of these changes.As always, please contact us if you have any questions. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=23 Please be advised - Your workers' compensation policy audit will add payments made to the cleaning person, the person that mows the lawn, fixes a clogged toilet, or puts on a magic show – if the vendor doesn’t have their own workers compensation policy. Although many are sole proprietors and are not required to have a policy, once they are providing a service for you they become your liability. So make sure you request a workers’ compensation certificate with your company name listed as the certificate holder from any 1099 vendor that comes to your place of business and performs a service, or budget for their inclusion in your audit.If you have any questions, please contact Mike Regan. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=22 The Fall season is upon us and Keena’s Placement Division is currently busy assisting some of the area’s leading companies with their staffing needs. There are not many activities that require as much time and resources as finding that right person for the job. Our Placement Division is ready to work with you and your business to help relieve those concerns. Staffing options offered through Keena include short and long-term temporary placement, temporary to permanent placement and direct permanent placement. For further information, contact Dave Bodak, Staffing Specialist at Keena. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=21 New York State has experienced record high levels of unemployed workers receiving unemployment benefits in recent years. This has forced the State to borrow money to pay these unemployment wages. In order to recover the interest cost on this borrowing, NYS has created the Interest Assessment Surcharge (IAS) of .25% on total taxable wages (about $21.25 per employee). This IAS is due to the state by August 15th. If you have any questions regarding the IAS assessment, please call Brian Lamos, CPP at 793-9825. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=19 Keena's online service allows employees to review paystubs as well as other payroll related information. Secure access to this service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days week from any computer connected to the internet. Please go to the top right hand corner of page and select employee login and type in user ID and Password. If you need your user ID and password or have questions or need additional information or help, please feel free to contact us. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=18 Did you know that a single workers’ compensation claim can negatively impact your policy for years after and incident? In most cases the best offense is a good defense; whether it is maintaining good housekeeping in an office environment or wearing proper safety protection at all times out in the field. A safety policy is only effective if owners, managers, or supervisors walk the talk. Allowing employees to relax rules to save time or letting them ignore a safety measure “just this time” can have a long-term impact on the employee’s health and cost the company thousands. If you do not have safety measures in place, please contact us for information on implementing a safety plan. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=17 Brian Lamos recently attended a conference sponsored by our payroll software. There he saw many exciting advancements that will be taking place over the coming months including Reporting Enhancements, Divisional Invoicing, Electronic Submission Of Child Support Payments, etc. As these advancements become available, we will highlight them individually along with how they can be used to increase our service to your company. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=16 Safety problems are common during hot weather. Heat tends to promote accidents due to the slipperiness of sweaty palms, dizziness, or the fogging of safety glasses. Heat also lowers the mental alertness and physical performance of an individual. Increased body temperature and physical discomfort promote irritability, anger, and other emotional states which sometimes cause workers to overlook safety procedures or to divert attention from hazardous tasks. To read more and learn the signs of heat stroke and heat exhaustion and how to protect yourself, please click here. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=15 New York State is serious about Workers' Compensation Audits! Please be prepared to provide all the data requested for your annual WC audit. While some information requests seem a little invasive, your cooperation goes a long way to completing an accurate audit with few complications. And remember, providing the requested information in a timely manner will help keep your premium down.If you have any questions about your WC audit, please contact us. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=13 After a number of years of relatively stable rates, workers' compensation rates in New York State are on the rise. The increases are largely due to the rapid rise in weekly workers compensation benefits and, unfortunately, the Workers' Compensation Board's lack of implementation of legislative reforms passed in 2007 (when rates dropped considerably). While the average rate increase is 4.5% the trades have seen increases of close to 30%. Remember that careful claims management is important in controlling your rates. Please complete an Accident/Incident Form and contact Keena as soon as possible after a work site accident or injury so that we can help you. Lastly, you can avoid "uninsured subcontractor" charges by getting a certificate from ALL sub contractors that you do business with. If you have any questions, please give us a call. http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=12 New York State's Wage Theft Prevention Act is now in effect. We have been busy here preparing for the changes required by this law. Starting this week, your employees may notice small changes to their pay stub. This new law is very specific about what information needs to be included. For the complete list of requirements, please visit the DOL website. The other change involves the pay notice required at hiring. While we have been using a DOL created form since late 2009 to meet this requirement, they have updated their forms and are allowing employers to use their own versions. You will see that we have updated the last page of our Employee Information Packet to meet the new requirements, while trying to make compliance as easy as possible.If you have any questions about either of these changes, please let us know! http://keena.com/news/index.asp?w=news&q=detail&nid=11