Employee

A circle of healthcare professionals piling hands photographed from the bottom up.

Guide to Rising ACA Employer Mandate Penalties in 2026

Many small businesses operate under the assumption that they do not have enough workers to worry about the “play-or-pay” provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). However, as a business expands, these rules can apply much sooner than expected.

A common misconception contributes to this blind spot: the belief that the repeal of the individual mandate penalty under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act applied to businesses as well. While the individual mandate penalty for citizens was eliminated, the employer shared responsibility rules remain fully in effect and heavily enforced.

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Seasonal Workers and the Healthcare Law

Many businesses rely on seasonal or part-time workers during peak periods — whether for the holidays, harvest season, commercial fishing, or special events. But how do these temporary workers affect your obligations under the Affordable Care Act (ACA)?

Here’s what employers and business owners need to know.

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A row of employees in front of the manager, all dressed in work clothes. One confident-looking worker looking at us.

Hiring Independent Contractors? Make Sure You’re Doing It Right

Many businesses turn to independent contractors to help manage costs, especially during times of staffing shortages and inflation. If you’re among them, ensuring these workers are properly classified for federal tax purposes is crucial. Misclassifying employees as independent contractors can result in expensive consequences if the IRS steps in and reclassifies them. It could lead to audits, back taxes, penalties, and even lawsuits.

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Are Your Employees Suffering From Retirement Plan Leakage?

Today’s small to midsize businesses are often urged to help employees improve their financial wellness. And for good reason: Financially struggling workers tend to have higher stress and anxiety levels. They may be less productive and more prone to errors. Some might even decide to commit fraud.

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5 Steps to Creating a Pay Transparency Strategy

Today’s job seekers and employees have grown accustomed to having an incredible amount of information at their fingertips. As a result, many businesses find that failing to adequately disclose certain things negatively impacts their relationships with these parties.

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A hand checking off boxes.

Is Your Business Required to Report Employee Health Coverage?

Employee health coverage is a significant part of many companies’ benefits packages. However, the administrative responsibilities that accompany offering health insurance can be complex. One crucial aspect is understanding the reporting requirements of federal agencies such as the IRS. Does your business have to comply, and if so, what must you do? Here are some answers to questions you may have.

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Hiring? How to Benefit from the Work Opportunity Tax Credit

If you’re a business owner or manager seeking to hire, you should be aware of the details of a valuable tax credit for hiring individuals from one or more targeted groups. Employers can qualify for the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), which is worth as much as $2,400 for most eligible employees (higher or lower for certain employees). The credit is limited to eligible employees who begin work for an employer before January 1, 2026.

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