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Yoon Suk Yeol jailed for life after leading insurrection that plunged country into political crisis View the full article

“Before The Whale, I had everything to prove. And now, to be honest, not so much,” Oscar winner Brendan Fraser, 57, told AARP The Magazine in an interview last month. The 50-and-older segment is the fastest-growing demographic in the world, according to Myechia Minter-Jordan, AARP’s CEO. And three years ago, Fraser—a Hollywood mainstay for 35 years whose career has been marked by challenges like depression and work drought—was nominated for (and won) his first Academy Award for playing the lead in director Darren Aronofsky’s prestige drama The Whale. In his acceptance speech, Fraser thanked Aronofsky “for throwing me a creative lifeline.” In the interview with AARP, he delves further into his professional journey, sharing high points and personal setbacks, as well ambitious persistence in middle age. From Encino Man and George of the Jungle to The Mummy and The Whale, Fraser has long been a leading man. But he flashes back to his first paid gig as a mascot for a storage unit company in Seattle, making $14 an hour: “I’ve never been flipped off more in my life,” he said. Eventually, he got acting gigs and moved from roles like “Sailor Number One” to becoming a Hollywood megastar and blockbuster headliner. Fraser also detailed struggling with depression after an incident in 2003, when he alleged that the president of the Foreign Press Association groped him at an event. He talked about the importance of safeguarding his mental health following the incident: “I’ve learned to check in with myself and constantly reevaluate what’s important. And you also need to ask for help when you need it. Early on, I didn’t know you could ask for help. I only saw the stigma of it. I was afraid to say, ‘I need a hand.’” Fraser said he again found himself in a dark place when, despite being a Hollywood A-lister, he ended up in a prolonged career lull for the entire 2010s (despite the fact that he never actually stopped working). The AARP The Magazine article called it a “less star-studded” period in which “he wasn’t connecting with audiences the way he once had.” “The silence in a career can be deafening,” Fraser told the magazine. He expounded on his philosophy of perseverance: “For a long time there, I felt like I disappointed people because I hadn’t met their expectations,” he said. “But I’m still here, you know? This is what I do.” This lesson in humility and gratitude can create confidence and better health. In fact, there’s research that shows gratitude’s heath perks, such as greater emotional and social well-being, improved sleep, lower depression risk, and even better heart heath markers, according to Harvard Health. “In this job, you live in a constant state of panic, and you can’t get too comfortable,” Fraser revealed. “I’ve learned to check in with myself and constantly reevaluate what’s important.” Staying true to your values and your core goals can keep you focused on your career path, too. The intersection of values, passion, and purpose can culminate across industries, whether that’s working as an actor, a software designer, an account executive, an attorney, or a small-business owner. In a Harvard Business Review article titled “Values, Passion, or Purpose—Which Should Guide Your Career?,” writer Irina Cozma summarizes the principle: “We all know following this advice isn’t as easy as it sounds,” Cozma wrote. This commitment to self-reliance is a continual and evolving commitment. Incorporating these mantras can help you build a career that is a combination of feeling successful, but also deeply fulfilling, she said. Finally, supporting each other’s mental health is crucial. Fraser touched on the importance of reaching out for help—and the same is true in professional contexts. A 2024 study by the University of New Mexico’s Anderson School of Management, published in The Journal of Social Psychology, showcases how receiving help at work can mitigate exhaustion levels for workers. “This research points to the importance of us working together. Being able to find unique and creative ways to still foster those relationships, even virtually, is extremely important,” said associate professor Andrea Hetrick, the study’s lead author, in a press release. Fraser’s most recent film, 2025’s Rental Family, has him starring as an American actor doing stand-in work for strangers for a Japanese talent agency. It’s the latest movie in his decades-long career—one marked by resilience in the face of prolonged dry spells and huge mental health roadblocks in a brutally competitive, age-conscious industry. He said he relies on therapy, as well as “reaching out to friends, getting the exercise you need, even having a bit of breakfast. They’re small things, but when you’re dealing with those feelings, they can make a monumental difference.” View the full article

Imposter syndrome happens when we have the feeling that we do not deserve what we have achieved, fearing that we’ll be discovered to be fakes or frauds. Our successes, we tell ourselves, were achieved not through our actual abilities and talents, but through some combination of luck, timing, and mistakes others made that allowed us to slip through the cracks. Nobody is immune to this feeling, and it affects all segments of the public—from leaders, artists, actors, and the people we see as high achievers. Sheryl Sandberg, Harvard grad and former Facebook COO, wrote in her 2013 book Lean In: “Every time I took a test, I was sure that it had gone badly. And every time I didn’t embarrass myself—or even excelled—I believed that I had fooled everyone yet again. One day soon, the jig would be up.” Sandberg is joined by a long list of well-known people who have readily admitted feeling this way. But emotional intelligence offers us help and direction in overcoming this pervasive yet very common problem. Commonly understood as the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our emotions, emotional intelligence gives us the ability to understand ourselves and others in ways that increase our ability to work through our unpleasant thoughts and feelings. As an author of two books on emotional intelligence, I have written extensively on the topic. When we experience imposter feelings, they provide us with guidelines and tools that will help us to release the negative impacts that come with them. Instead of experiencing self-doubt, we will move toward welcoming our success. Self-awareness, the root of emotional intelligence, is a powerful aide in determining how we relate to self-doubt and our inner voice. When we are self-aware, we learn to create space between how we are feeling and what we know to be facts. We can choose to feel fear and self-doubt without accepting them as being based in reality. This allows us to choose thoughts that support that we have genuinely earned our achievements. People with strong emotional intelligence have the ability to relate to and connect well with others. When sharing their doubts, they soon become acutely aware of how common this problem is, allowing them to normalize their feelings around the issue. This provides them with relief that what they are experiencing is nothing out of the ordinary that needs to be feared and overly stressed about. Knowing that there are many others who experience the same thing takes a lot of the sting out of our feelings that we are alone with this experience. One of the characteristics of people who struggle with imposter syndrome is that they tend to be very hard on themselves. This was true for Suzanne Smith, a college professor and the CEO of the nonprofit management company Social Impact Architects, who describes herself as a “recovering perfectionist.” As Smith tells her entrepreneurship students: “Imposter syndrome isn’t proof you’re unqualified. It’s often evidence that you’re growing.” She has spent the last decade becoming more emotionally aware of that tendency and intentionally practicing positive self-talk. And now she shares that journey with her students and clients and the readers of her weekly Substack newsletter, helping them differentiate between perception and reality in order to build healthier habits. Often, when we’re being hard on ourselves, it means that we are giving little attention to our strengths and instead are amplifying our weaknesses. Empathy, a major aspect of emotional intelligence, helps us not only to see others’ strengths more clearly but also to acknowledge our own abilities and treat ourselves with compassion when we fail to reach our goals. It helps us to recognize that we are a work in progress, and to understand that setbacks and failures are a normal part of the learning process. It allows us to see our achievements, not with arrogance, but as a result of our determination and ongoing growth. One of the skills of emotional intelligence is the ability to regulate our emotions. Imposter syndrome can bring up strong feelings of anxiety, causing us to overprepare or avoid so that we don’t have to deal with strong feelings. People who know how to regulate are able to keep thoughts and feelings from overwhelming their ability to think rationally and logically. They have developed the ability to remember times that they successfully overcame stressful times and to think of situations that ended well. Emotionally intelligent people use setbacks and failures as learning opportunities rather than taking them personally as indicators that there is something lacking in them. They understand that oftentimes, very successful people have failed multiple times. This way of thinking becomes useful once imposter syndrome takes hold. But when it does, we can look back and see that our progress indicates a persistence, determination, and ability that, over time, end up showing results—rather than internal doubts about our success. View the full article

In 2013, when Meredith O’Connor was 16, the music video for her debut single “Celebrity” went viral. Afterward, she channeled her own stardom into championing childhood mental health: As a hyperactive kid, O’Connor says she was often the subject of bullying, and when her music career gave her a platform, she was eager to use it to advocate on behalf of other victims. “I knew my fan base was younger, but I didn’t know how many people would resonate with mental health challenges,” she says. “I realized there were millions of gifted people that are being marginalized, and that’s when I really wanted to start the mental health study.” Since blowing up YouTube over a decade ago, O’Connor earned a master’s degree in mental health counseling and cofounded the Mental Health Counseling Services of Manhattan in 2024. In working closely with public schools, O’Connor says she was struck by the many ways in which standardized tests disadvantage neurodivergent students. “That observation led me to speak directly with leaders across law, advisory firms, and business about how hiring and evaluation systems might evolve in an AI economy.” O’Connor explains that the more she spoke with AmLaw 20 firms and Fortune 500 executives, the more she realized that the kinds of skills they desired from graduates were not the skills that were measured and rewarded on standardized tests. That’s especially true for those like herself with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), who have many natural advantages, but often struggle with memorization and sustaining focus. “Before age 23, the ADHD brain is gifted in many things. But one of the areas of slower development is executive function,” she says, explaining that the limitation affects short-term memory, concentration, and impulse control. “By the time [those with ADHD] are 18, you’ll have taken all these aptitude tests that are studying parts of the brain that have not developed yet.” Those with ADHD, however, often excel in areas like abstract thinking, creative problem-solving, resilience, and empathy—all of which are seeing heightened value by employers in the age of artificial intelligence. “It’s better than humans at many of the tasks that people who are neurodivergent struggle with,” O’Connor says. “Skills that are aligned with being an entrepreneur, skills that align with communication, skills that align with problem-solving—those are the things that AI can’t do better than humans yet.” People with ADHD often demonstrate certain natural strengths and challenges. By sheer coincidence, many of the challenges can now be mitigated using AI tools. And at the same time, many of the ADHD advantages—like creative problem-solving, abstract thinking, and intuition—are seen as increasingly valuable in an AI-enabled world. AI Excels Where ADHD-ers Often Fall Short Those with ADHD often struggle with routine processes, time management, and processing large volumes of information. But AI tools are proving effective in helping them overcome those gaps. Rather than sitting still and paying attention for long periods in an academic lecture or a meeting, for example, AI software can now record that information, transcribe it, and highlight key points in a more condensed format. “Traditional environments are not designed for them; they are designed for the neurotypical person. And I think AI can help level the playing field,” says Rebecca Koniahgari, the founder of Bryge AI, a tool that helps neurotypical people better communicate with ADHD-ers (or “bridge the gap,” the inspiration for the product’s name). The New York-based engineer says she developed the product to better communicate with colleagues and friends who have been diagnosed with the condition. Instead of asking people with ADHD to adapt their communication style, Bryge AI is intended to be used by those who “love, live, or work with” someone who has ADHD. “I’m neurotypical, and the burden of communication has always been on the other person [with ADHD], so let’s meet them halfway,” Koniahgari says. The online app allows users to input a message and then “translates” it into a more ADHD-friendly structure that emphasizes clarity, brevity, and emotional intelligence—flagging potential issues, such as language, that might trigger anxiety, lack clarity, or use negative framing. After launching the prototype she developed at a hackathon event hosted by AI coding platform Bolt, Koniahgari was awarded a silver medal for Bryge AI at the 2025 Stevie Awards for Women in Business. Now, Koniahgari says she’s looking to integrate the technology into other AI tools like ChatGPT or Claude AI, and eventually into workplace communication platforms like Slack, to make it even more accessible and widely available. ADHD-ers Often Excel Where AI Falls Short Just as the technology can help fill the gaps where ADHD-ers struggle the most, ADHD-ers seem well positioned to fill the gaps where the technology often struggles, like with creative problem-solving, out-of-the-box thinking, and adaptability. According to a recent study conducted by researchers at Drexel University, those with ADHD tend to solve problems using insight rather than analytical skills. Instead of working out problems in steps, their brains often make subconscious connections that result in an “aha” moment of insight. “We hypothesized that people who have stronger ADHD symptoms would solve more of these puzzles with an a-ha moment, with insight, and that turned out to be true,” explains John Kounios, a professor of psychological and brain sciences at Drexel University, and one of the paper’s coauthors. “The thing that was surprising—although, in retrospect, it makes perfect sense—is that the people who solved the most puzzles were the ones who were lowest in ADHD symptoms and [who were] highest in ADHD symptoms.” The study asked participants a series of questions that are commonly used to screen for ADHD symptoms, and only included participants who had not been diagnosed with, or weren’t taking medication for, a cognitive disorder. Kounios explains that those who demonstrate more ADHD symptoms excel at solving problems using insight, those with the fewest symptoms also tend to excel by using analytical reasoning, while those in the middle aren’t particularly good at either. “The chatbots do not do this kind of spontaneous cognition that humans do, so human creativity sets the agenda,” Kounios says. “What people who have ADHD are good at is coming up with solutions to problems that no one knew they had.” A Team Effort Between the Neurotypical, Neurodivergent, and AI Kounios warns, however, that like other technology tools, there is a fine line between assistance and distraction—and AI could pose challenges to those who are already struggling to maintain focus. “It would require the person with ADHD to have the discipline to use chatbots in [a productive] way,” he says. “Certainly, it can be a rabbit hole that people can fall into.” That is why Kounios believes that people can best leverage their unique strengths and limit their natural challenges when they solve problems using the latest AI tools alongside teammates who think differently. “There’s research literature on the benefits of having sort of diverse teams,” he says. “You want to have some people who are older and some people who are younger . . . male and female . . . all kinds of different people.” Kounios adds that similar research is proving the same for neurodiversity. “I think it’s also good to have a mixture of cognitive profiles—some people who are going to be more scattered, less focused, maybe more creative, along with people who are much more analytical, focused, and systematic.” View the full article

When managing a business, comprehension fundamental payroll services is crucial for maintaining compliance and efficiency. Key services include effective employee time and attendance tracking, which reduces payroll errors, and payroll tax management to prevent penalties. Implementing direct deposit can improve employee satisfaction, during managing paid time off guarantees compliance with labor laws. Each of these services plays a critical role in your payroll process, and knowing how they work together can streamline your operations. Explore these services further to improve your payroll strategy. Key Takeaways Accurate employee time and attendance tracking ensures fair compensation and reduces payroll errors, integrating seamlessly with payroll services. Payroll tax management helps avoid substantial civil penalties by ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local tax regulations. Direct deposit streamlines payment processing, aligning with employee preferences and enhancing satisfaction while reducing administrative costs. Efficient management of paid time off and sick leave fosters employee satisfaction and compliance, minimizing administrative burdens on HR departments. Year-end tax form preparation, including W-2s and 1099s, is crucial for compliance and reduces stress during audits with professional support. Employee Time and Attendance Tracking Employee time and attendance tracking is critical for maintaining payroll accuracy and ensuring fair compensation for your workforce. By utilizing modern time-tracking systems such as biometric scanners or mobile apps, you can greatly improve efficiency compared to traditional methods like manual time cards. Accurate tracking not only reduces payroll errors but also mitigates compliance risks associated with labor laws, providing documented evidence of hours worked, which is essential for audits. Many small business owners spend considerable time on payroll tasks, making effective tracking important for reducing administrative burdens. When you integrate time and attendance tracking with your payroll services for small business, it streamlines operations, improves data accuracy, and in the end boosts productivity, making it an invaluable asset for any payroll company for small business. Payroll Tax Management and Compliance Managing payroll taxes and ensuring compliance with regulations is a crucial responsibility for any business owner. In 2023, tax compliance issues led to over $65.5 billion in civil penalties, underscoring the importance of effective payroll tax management. Accurate payroll services for businesses can help you avoid more than $8.5 billion in fines because of employment tax problems. By providing timely and precise payroll tax filings, these services mitigate risks from misclassifying workers or filing late. Moreover, top-tier payroll services manage all federal, state, and local year-end taxes, including W-2s, ensuring compliance. Accessing expert support during audits and tax season can relieve stress, allowing you to navigate regulations effectively as you resolve issues efficiently. Direct Deposit and Payment Distribution When you implement direct deposit for payroll, you streamline payment processing and improve employee convenience. This method allows wages to be deposited directly into bank accounts, eliminating the need for physical checks and reducing administrative tasks. Streamlined Payment Processing Streamlined payment processing is a crucial component of modern payroll services, greatly improving the efficiency of wage distribution. By implementing direct deposit, you can provide employees with electronic access to their wages, eliminating the need for physical checks and boosting security. This method not only saves you up to $3 per paycheck compared to traditional distribution but likewise aligns with the preferences of over 80% of employees who favor the convenience it offers. Automated payment distribution guarantees timely and accurate deposits that comply with federal and state regulations, reducing the risk of penalties. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8RYQj1TKyPU Furthermore, direct deposit simplifies the payment experience, improves employee satisfaction, and cultivates trust, ultimately contributing to better retention and a more engaged workforce. Enhanced Employee Convenience The convenience of direct deposit greatly improves employee satisfaction by streamlining the way wages are received. With around 82% of employees preferring direct deposit over traditional checks, this electronic payment method eliminates the hassle of paper checks and reduces the risk of lost payments. By using payroll services that provide automated direct deposit setups, you guarantee timely and accurate payments, considerably lowering administrative burdens and processing errors. Direct deposit accelerates the payroll process, helping you meet payment deadlines effortlessly, which is vital for compliance with labor laws. Furthermore, many payroll providers offer self-service portals where employees can access their pay stubs and payment history, enhancing transparency and making it easier for them to manage their financial information. Management of Paid Time Off and Sick Leave Effective management of paid time off (PTO) and sick leave is essential for businesses aiming to maintain employee satisfaction as well as adhering to labor laws. By ensuring compliance with statutory obligations regarding leave entitlements, you can avoid penalties associated with misclassification and late filings. Nonetheless, managing PTO and sick leave can take up to 10 hours a month, which can be an administrative burden for small business owners. Outsourcing this management can streamline processes and improve efficiency. Implementing self-service portals allows employees to request and track their leave easily, enhancing transparency. This not only saves time for HR but likewise boosts workforce morale by clarifying leave policies and ensuring employees feel valued and informed about their entitlements. Year-End Tax Forms and Reporting As businesses approach the end of the fiscal year, preparing year-end tax forms such as W-2s and 1099s becomes a critical task for compliance with federal tax regulations. These forms report employee earnings and independent contractor payments to the IRS, helping you avoid penalties for misclassification or incorrect filings. Utilizing payroll services can ease this administrative burden, guaranteeing accurate preparation and timely submission. Remember, you must provide employees with their W-2s by January 31st, allowing them adequate time to prepare their personal tax returns. Moreover, payroll services streamline the generation of year-end reports, offering insights into payroll expenditures, which can facilitate better financial planning for the upcoming year. Stay organized, and guarantee compliance to keep your business running smoothly. Integration With Accounting and HR Software Integrating payroll services with your accounting and HR software not merely streamlines your business operations but furthermore improves data accuracy across all platforms. When you connect payroll with accounting software, financial data automatically syncs, reducing manual entry errors and enhancing record-keeping for payroll and financial reports. Many payroll providers offer bidirectional integration, meaning updates in either system are reflected in real-time. This capability likewise extends to HR software, simplifying employee onboarding and management, guaranteeing that employee information and time tracking stay current as well as complying with labor laws. By leveraging these integrations, you can markedly increase operational efficiency, allowing your team to focus on strategic activities rather than administrative tasks. Popular accounting systems like QuickBooks guarantee consolidated financial management and easier tax filing. Access to Expert Support and Resources When you engage with payroll services, you gain access to expert guidance during audits, ensuring you’re prepared and compliant with regulations. These services furthermore provide valuable compliance and legal resources, helping you navigate the intricacies of labor laws effectively. In addition, many payroll providers offer training and development opportunities, allowing you to stay updated on best practices and improve your team’s skills. Expert Guidance During Audits Maneuvering through an audit can be intimidating, especially for small business owners who may lack the resources or expertise to handle the intricacies involved. Fortunately, expert guidance during audits can ease this burden considerably. Access to dedicated audit resources can help you navigate complex processes. Expert support minimizes potential penalties by ensuring compliance with tax regulations. Professional payroll services assist in addressing discrepancies and errors effectively. Streamlined year-end preparation includes generating necessary tax documents like W-2s and 1099s. Knowledgeable professionals clarify payroll liabilities and help maintain accurate records. Utilizing payroll providers with audit support not merely reduces stress but additionally safeguards your business against costly fines and compliance issues, allowing you to focus on growth and stability. Compliance and Legal Resources Accessing expert support and resources for compliance and legal matters is essential for businesses maneuvering the intricacies of payroll management. Top-tier payroll services provide guidance on complex labor laws and tax regulations, helping you minimize the risk of costly penalties. In 2023, companies faced over $8.5 billion in fines related to employment tax issues, underscoring the importance of accurate payroll processing. These services guarantee timely filings and correct calculations for employment taxes, which are critical for remaining compliant with federal and state regulations. Furthermore, having access to resources during audits and tax season can relieve stress and boost your confidence in handling payroll obligations. Thorough payroll services keep you updated on changing tax laws, helping you maintain continuous compliance. Training and Development Opportunities To effectively manage payroll processes, businesses benefit greatly from training and development opportunities offered by payroll service providers. These resources equip you with the knowledge needed to navigate complex payroll systems and meet compliance standards. Access to expert support during audits and tax season Training resources customized to stay updated on tax regulations Webinars and workshops covering fundamental payroll topics Personalized guidance from dedicated payroll specialists Implementation of the latest technology and processes for efficiency Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Best Payroll Service for a Small Business? When choosing the best payroll service for your small business, consider Gusto for its user-friendly interface and extensive HR features. If you manage hourly employees, Homebase offers excellent scheduling and time tracking integration. For those already using QuickBooks, QuickBooks Payroll provides seamless integration but lacks scheduling tools. Paychex Flex is ideal if you anticipate growth, offering dedicated HR support. Assess your specific needs to determine which service aligns best with your business model. What Are the Different Types of Payroll Services? There are several types of payroll services you can choose from. Full-service payroll handles everything, including tax calculations and filings. Online payroll services offer cloud-based management, perfect for remote access. Payroll processing services focus solely on calculating employee pay, whereas businesses manage tax filings. Specialized payroll services cater to unique industry needs, and integrated payroll services connect with other tools, enhancing efficiency. Each option suits different business requirements, ensuring you can find the right fit. What Are the 5 Basic Steps of Using the Payroll System? To effectively use a payroll system, you should follow five basic steps. First, gather accurate employee information and time records. Next, choose a payroll system that meets your business needs. Then, implement a time-tracking method to monitor hours worked. After that, calculate gross salary and deductions, including taxes. Finally, distribute payments to employees as you generate payroll reports to maintain compliance with tax regulations. This guarantees a smooth payroll process for your organization. What Do Employers Need for Payroll? To manage payroll effectively, you need accurate employee information, including names, addresses, tax IDs, and salary details. It’s essential to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for tax purposes and classify workers correctly as employees or independent contractors. Implement a reliable time tracking system to calculate wages accurately. Finally, make certain you understand compliance with federal, state, and local tax laws, and regularly audit your payroll records to maintain accuracy and avoid penalties. Conclusion Incorporating these seven vital payroll services can markedly improve your business’s efficiency and compliance. By effectively tracking employee time, managing payroll taxes, and providing direct deposit, you streamline operations and enhance employee satisfaction. Furthermore, handling paid time off accurately and maintaining proper year-end reporting are critical for regulatory adherence. Finally, integrating payroll with accounting software and accessing expert support guarantees your business remains up-to-date with best practices and legal requirements, ultimately promoting a more organized payroll process. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "7 Essential Payroll Services for Businesses You Need to Know" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

When managing a business, comprehension fundamental payroll services is crucial for maintaining compliance and efficiency. Key services include effective employee time and attendance tracking, which reduces payroll errors, and payroll tax management to prevent penalties. Implementing direct deposit can improve employee satisfaction, during managing paid time off guarantees compliance with labor laws. Each of these services plays a critical role in your payroll process, and knowing how they work together can streamline your operations. Explore these services further to improve your payroll strategy. Key Takeaways Accurate employee time and attendance tracking ensures fair compensation and reduces payroll errors, integrating seamlessly with payroll services. Payroll tax management helps avoid substantial civil penalties by ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local tax regulations. Direct deposit streamlines payment processing, aligning with employee preferences and enhancing satisfaction while reducing administrative costs. Efficient management of paid time off and sick leave fosters employee satisfaction and compliance, minimizing administrative burdens on HR departments. Year-end tax form preparation, including W-2s and 1099s, is crucial for compliance and reduces stress during audits with professional support. Employee Time and Attendance Tracking Employee time and attendance tracking is critical for maintaining payroll accuracy and ensuring fair compensation for your workforce. By utilizing modern time-tracking systems such as biometric scanners or mobile apps, you can greatly improve efficiency compared to traditional methods like manual time cards. Accurate tracking not only reduces payroll errors but also mitigates compliance risks associated with labor laws, providing documented evidence of hours worked, which is essential for audits. Many small business owners spend considerable time on payroll tasks, making effective tracking important for reducing administrative burdens. When you integrate time and attendance tracking with your payroll services for small business, it streamlines operations, improves data accuracy, and in the end boosts productivity, making it an invaluable asset for any payroll company for small business. Payroll Tax Management and Compliance Managing payroll taxes and ensuring compliance with regulations is a crucial responsibility for any business owner. In 2023, tax compliance issues led to over $65.5 billion in civil penalties, underscoring the importance of effective payroll tax management. Accurate payroll services for businesses can help you avoid more than $8.5 billion in fines because of employment tax problems. By providing timely and precise payroll tax filings, these services mitigate risks from misclassifying workers or filing late. Moreover, top-tier payroll services manage all federal, state, and local year-end taxes, including W-2s, ensuring compliance. Accessing expert support during audits and tax season can relieve stress, allowing you to navigate regulations effectively as you resolve issues efficiently. Direct Deposit and Payment Distribution When you implement direct deposit for payroll, you streamline payment processing and improve employee convenience. This method allows wages to be deposited directly into bank accounts, eliminating the need for physical checks and reducing administrative tasks. Streamlined Payment Processing Streamlined payment processing is a crucial component of modern payroll services, greatly improving the efficiency of wage distribution. By implementing direct deposit, you can provide employees with electronic access to their wages, eliminating the need for physical checks and boosting security. This method not only saves you up to $3 per paycheck compared to traditional distribution but likewise aligns with the preferences of over 80% of employees who favor the convenience it offers. Automated payment distribution guarantees timely and accurate deposits that comply with federal and state regulations, reducing the risk of penalties. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8RYQj1TKyPU Furthermore, direct deposit simplifies the payment experience, improves employee satisfaction, and cultivates trust, ultimately contributing to better retention and a more engaged workforce. Enhanced Employee Convenience The convenience of direct deposit greatly improves employee satisfaction by streamlining the way wages are received. With around 82% of employees preferring direct deposit over traditional checks, this electronic payment method eliminates the hassle of paper checks and reduces the risk of lost payments. By using payroll services that provide automated direct deposit setups, you guarantee timely and accurate payments, considerably lowering administrative burdens and processing errors. Direct deposit accelerates the payroll process, helping you meet payment deadlines effortlessly, which is vital for compliance with labor laws. Furthermore, many payroll providers offer self-service portals where employees can access their pay stubs and payment history, enhancing transparency and making it easier for them to manage their financial information. Management of Paid Time Off and Sick Leave Effective management of paid time off (PTO) and sick leave is essential for businesses aiming to maintain employee satisfaction as well as adhering to labor laws. By ensuring compliance with statutory obligations regarding leave entitlements, you can avoid penalties associated with misclassification and late filings. Nonetheless, managing PTO and sick leave can take up to 10 hours a month, which can be an administrative burden for small business owners. Outsourcing this management can streamline processes and improve efficiency. Implementing self-service portals allows employees to request and track their leave easily, enhancing transparency. This not only saves time for HR but likewise boosts workforce morale by clarifying leave policies and ensuring employees feel valued and informed about their entitlements. Year-End Tax Forms and Reporting As businesses approach the end of the fiscal year, preparing year-end tax forms such as W-2s and 1099s becomes a critical task for compliance with federal tax regulations. These forms report employee earnings and independent contractor payments to the IRS, helping you avoid penalties for misclassification or incorrect filings. Utilizing payroll services can ease this administrative burden, guaranteeing accurate preparation and timely submission. Remember, you must provide employees with their W-2s by January 31st, allowing them adequate time to prepare their personal tax returns. Moreover, payroll services streamline the generation of year-end reports, offering insights into payroll expenditures, which can facilitate better financial planning for the upcoming year. Stay organized, and guarantee compliance to keep your business running smoothly. Integration With Accounting and HR Software Integrating payroll services with your accounting and HR software not merely streamlines your business operations but furthermore improves data accuracy across all platforms. When you connect payroll with accounting software, financial data automatically syncs, reducing manual entry errors and enhancing record-keeping for payroll and financial reports. Many payroll providers offer bidirectional integration, meaning updates in either system are reflected in real-time. This capability likewise extends to HR software, simplifying employee onboarding and management, guaranteeing that employee information and time tracking stay current as well as complying with labor laws. By leveraging these integrations, you can markedly increase operational efficiency, allowing your team to focus on strategic activities rather than administrative tasks. Popular accounting systems like QuickBooks guarantee consolidated financial management and easier tax filing. Access to Expert Support and Resources When you engage with payroll services, you gain access to expert guidance during audits, ensuring you’re prepared and compliant with regulations. These services furthermore provide valuable compliance and legal resources, helping you navigate the intricacies of labor laws effectively. In addition, many payroll providers offer training and development opportunities, allowing you to stay updated on best practices and improve your team’s skills. Expert Guidance During Audits Maneuvering through an audit can be intimidating, especially for small business owners who may lack the resources or expertise to handle the intricacies involved. Fortunately, expert guidance during audits can ease this burden considerably. Access to dedicated audit resources can help you navigate complex processes. Expert support minimizes potential penalties by ensuring compliance with tax regulations. Professional payroll services assist in addressing discrepancies and errors effectively. Streamlined year-end preparation includes generating necessary tax documents like W-2s and 1099s. Knowledgeable professionals clarify payroll liabilities and help maintain accurate records. Utilizing payroll providers with audit support not merely reduces stress but additionally safeguards your business against costly fines and compliance issues, allowing you to focus on growth and stability. Compliance and Legal Resources Accessing expert support and resources for compliance and legal matters is essential for businesses maneuvering the intricacies of payroll management. Top-tier payroll services provide guidance on complex labor laws and tax regulations, helping you minimize the risk of costly penalties. In 2023, companies faced over $8.5 billion in fines related to employment tax issues, underscoring the importance of accurate payroll processing. These services guarantee timely filings and correct calculations for employment taxes, which are critical for remaining compliant with federal and state regulations. Furthermore, having access to resources during audits and tax season can relieve stress and boost your confidence in handling payroll obligations. Thorough payroll services keep you updated on changing tax laws, helping you maintain continuous compliance. Training and Development Opportunities To effectively manage payroll processes, businesses benefit greatly from training and development opportunities offered by payroll service providers. These resources equip you with the knowledge needed to navigate complex payroll systems and meet compliance standards. Access to expert support during audits and tax season Training resources customized to stay updated on tax regulations Webinars and workshops covering fundamental payroll topics Personalized guidance from dedicated payroll specialists Implementation of the latest technology and processes for efficiency Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Best Payroll Service for a Small Business? When choosing the best payroll service for your small business, consider Gusto for its user-friendly interface and extensive HR features. If you manage hourly employees, Homebase offers excellent scheduling and time tracking integration. For those already using QuickBooks, QuickBooks Payroll provides seamless integration but lacks scheduling tools. Paychex Flex is ideal if you anticipate growth, offering dedicated HR support. Assess your specific needs to determine which service aligns best with your business model. What Are the Different Types of Payroll Services? There are several types of payroll services you can choose from. Full-service payroll handles everything, including tax calculations and filings. Online payroll services offer cloud-based management, perfect for remote access. Payroll processing services focus solely on calculating employee pay, whereas businesses manage tax filings. Specialized payroll services cater to unique industry needs, and integrated payroll services connect with other tools, enhancing efficiency. Each option suits different business requirements, ensuring you can find the right fit. What Are the 5 Basic Steps of Using the Payroll System? To effectively use a payroll system, you should follow five basic steps. First, gather accurate employee information and time records. Next, choose a payroll system that meets your business needs. Then, implement a time-tracking method to monitor hours worked. After that, calculate gross salary and deductions, including taxes. Finally, distribute payments to employees as you generate payroll reports to maintain compliance with tax regulations. This guarantees a smooth payroll process for your organization. What Do Employers Need for Payroll? To manage payroll effectively, you need accurate employee information, including names, addresses, tax IDs, and salary details. It’s essential to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for tax purposes and classify workers correctly as employees or independent contractors. Implement a reliable time tracking system to calculate wages accurately. Finally, make certain you understand compliance with federal, state, and local tax laws, and regularly audit your payroll records to maintain accuracy and avoid penalties. Conclusion Incorporating these seven vital payroll services can markedly improve your business’s efficiency and compliance. By effectively tracking employee time, managing payroll taxes, and providing direct deposit, you streamline operations and enhance employee satisfaction. Furthermore, handling paid time off accurately and maintaining proper year-end reporting are critical for regulatory adherence. Finally, integrating payroll with accounting software and accessing expert support guarantees your business remains up-to-date with best practices and legal requirements, ultimately promoting a more organized payroll process. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "7 Essential Payroll Services for Businesses You Need to Know" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

It’s five answers to five questions. Here we go… 1. Should I tell people at the company we just acquired what they’re in for? A few years ago, I started at a small company which within a year of me joining was acquired by a massive international company based on the opposite coast. At the time, my boss and the now (forcibly) retired owner were told that we would still be able to be largely independent, with more support for the work we do currently. It wasn’t until all the paperwork was signed, sealed, and delivered that everyone realized this couldn’t be further from the truth. Staff and offices we were promised wouldn’t be touched have been gutted. Our workload has at least doubled, but without any additional support. Corporate leadership is wildly out of touch and mismanaged, and because they decided to grow “inorganically” (aka, buying up every company in even slightly adjacent fields), the internal structure is a mess. Nothing can get done in HR or Accounting without going through the corporate office, which has extensive turnover, making simple tasks like sending out a check or updating a staff member’s insurance take at least 2-3 weeks (or it’s just forgotten about entirely). It. Is. A. MESS. Everyone is overworked, everything is disorganized, and the only solutions corporate has come up with seem to be (1) ending work from home accommodations (which almost resulted in a mutiny within the corporate office itself) and (2) ACQUIRE MORE COMPANIES! We just acquired another company of about 200 people in the same city my office is located in. Corporate basically shoved our legacy team into the newly purchased company’s office and volun-told my boss to “guide” the new team through the acquisition process since we “know the ropes.” My boss and I are at a loss. This team has been told all the same fairytales we heard when we were acquired. They do not know that their lovely support staff will likely be cut in the next 1-2 years. They do not know that corporate will make those cuts without anyone set up to take over their workload, and anyone left over will be forced to just take it on themselves. They do not know that corporate will make sweeping decisions at the drop of a hat without doing due diligence. Aside from just bailing out and finding a new job (which I have been working on), do you have any advice on how best to approach this with the new team? Do we let them figure out the worst of it on their own? For now, my boss and I have decided if we’re asked direct questions by the new team, we will be as honest as possible without sharing too much as to scare them. But this feels disingenuous and eventually the cat’s going to come tumbling out of the bag, especially since we’re supposed to be the ones “guiding” them. Oh gosh, tell them. When you do it, be honest without editorializing. So it’s not, “Corporate is a mess, this is a disaster, they are out of their gourds.” It’s, “This is what our experience has been, and the challenges have been XYZ” — with the facts delivered dryly and matter-of-factly. They’re going to be able to figure out the “this is a disaster” part on their own. 2. Interviewer didn’t ask me any questions I recently interviewed for a job. Once we started the interview, he asked me why I was leaving my current job, and after I answered, he started talking about what the job entails, the benefits, etc., but did not ask me another question till the end, asking if I had any questions for him. After that, he said he had a couple more interviews, but he would follow up in two weeks with an offer. It wasn’t until after I left that I was a little confused because this all happened in the span of 20 minutes. I haven’t done many interviews, but is this normal interview behavior? It’s the behavior of a bad interviewer — someone who doesn’t know how to evaluate candidates and instead is going based on vibe. It doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a bad place to work (although if they’ve assembled a good staff, it’ll be more by accident than intentional design) but it’s a flag to, if you get an offer, slow down and make sure you’ve asked enough to (a) determine what it would actually be like to work there and (b) weigh whether if you’d actually be good at the work you’re being offered, since the interviewer didn’t do that part himself. Related: can you ask an interviewer to stop talking so much? 3. Hard skills versus soft skills in a movie Over the weekend, I saw the new Sam Raimi movie “Send Help” with Dylan O’Brien and Rachel McAdams. Without giving away too much about the movie for those who want to see it, in an early scene that sets up the rest of the movie, Dylan’s character inherits a company after his dad’s death and, although Rachel was promised a VP spot by his father after working at the company for seven years, he gives the VP spot to his frat brother who was only at the company for six months. When she confronts him about it, he tells her that she lacks the people skills to become a VP and that the job also requires the ability to play golf. And the thing is, watching the movie, he wasn’t totally wrong? Her character was very good at her job in strategy and planning but lacks any and all soft skills. She has no friends at work, she’s awkward, she’s passive, and she doesn’t read social cues well. If his father had really felt strongly about the promotion, he should have had her boss work with her to train her in those skills. Because a VP does need those skills. Right? I felt like he was a jerk and went about it all wrong, but wasn’t totally off the mark. I don’t work in business, but I am middle management in my job and did not have soft skills naturally and had to work on them, and am still working on them (it’s hard when they are not your natural state — I just want to hide out in my office and avoid confrontation as a norm) but it can be done if you want the job enough. I was just interested in your take. With the caveat that I haven’t seen the movie and don’t know anything about it so I’m just basing this on what you’ve written here: yes. Most upper management positions require people skills, leadership positions definitely do, and anything dealing with clients definitely does. That doesn’t mean the frat brother was the right choice either (maybe he was, I have no idea) and clearly the movie sounds interested in setting up a dichotomy between “highly qualified woman without social flash” and “unqualified man who knows how to schmooze,” but it’s definitely true that in many jobs, people skills are an important piece of the qualifications, not just an optional nice-to-have bonus. 4. Job wants reference forms completed before you even interview My spouse got called for an interview for a state government job. For the interview, he’s required to bring forms completed by his references, as well as employer verification forms filled out by his former and current employers. This seems disrespectful of applicants and their contacts. My spouse hasn’t even spoken with the hiring manager yet and isn’t even certain he wants the job. Do you think it’s a bad sign? Government jobs have their own extremely rigid and often nonsensical bureaucracy. If that kind of thing is going to drive him bananas, it’s a bad sign in the sense of “this is a taste of what working with a large and rigid bureaucracy will be like,” but you shouldn’t read much more than that into it. 5. How do I tell my boss I have cancer? I’ve just been diagnosed with breast cancer. I haven’t even figured out my next steps yet, but I know that we’ll have to involve notifying my work. There’s going to be surgery, possibly follow-up treatments, the works. What is the best way to tell my boss without completely undermining myself or coming across as a liability to the company? I’d love to trust that I’ll be treated fairly, but I cannot lose my job in my health insurance now. You don’t need to share anything you’re not comfortable sharing. If you’d prefer, you can just say, “I have a medical situation that I’m going to be dealing with over the coming months and I’m going to need some time off for surgery and follow-ups. I’ll let you know the details as I get them, but wanted to give you a heads-up that it’s coming.” Your boss will probably express concern and you can respond to that with something simple like, “Thank you, I appreciate it and I’ll keep you posted.” For what it’s worth, no good company will see you as a liability for having breast cancer, and it would be illegal for them to fire you for being sick (although realistically, that does happen to people so I get why you’re worried). I would say to look at what you know of your company and your boss and how they operate as you decide what you’re comfortable sharing. Sending you good thoughts for a good outcome! The post should I tell people at the company we acquired what they’re in for, interviewer didn’t ask me any questions, and more appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

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An HR payroll system is an essential software tool that streamlines the management of employee compensation. It automates various tasks, such as calculating wages, processing tax withholdings, and managing deductions. By integrating with timekeeping systems, it guarantees accurate tracking of hours worked. Comprehending how these systems function and their importance can greatly impact efficiency and compliance within your organization. As you explore further, you’ll discover the key features that make payroll systems indispensable in today’s workplaces. Key Takeaways An HR payroll system automates employee compensation, calculating wages, taxes, and deductions to ensure accurate and timely payments. It integrates with timekeeping systems to track hours worked, enhancing payroll accuracy and compliance with labor laws. The system automatically calculates tax withholdings, maintaining compliance with federal, state, and local regulations to avoid penalties. Employees can access pay statements and update personal information through self-service features, improving engagement and transparency. Payroll systems can be in-house, outsourced, or cloud-based, offering flexibility to fit various organizational needs and sizes. What Is an HR Payroll System? An HR payroll system is a crucial tool for managing employee compensation efficiently. This software application automates the management of wages, taxes, and deductions for each pay period, ensuring accuracy and compliance. By integrating with timekeeping and attendance systems, it accurately tracks hours worked, which is particularly important for hourly employees. With the HR payroll system, you don’t have to worry about manually withholding taxes and deductions, as it automatically handles these tasks, reducing the risk of IRS penalties. Furthermore, many businesses use an HCM platform that offers a human capital management login, giving employees access to pay statements, tax documents, and the ability to update personal information. This self-service feature improves transparency and boosts employee satisfaction. Depending on your organization’s needs, you can manage the HR payroll system in-house, outsource it to third-party providers, or opt for cloud-based solutions to fit various business sizes and intricacies. Importance of HR Payroll Systems HR payroll systems play a crucial role in ensuring you make timely payments to your employees, which is fundamental for maintaining their satisfaction and loyalty. They likewise help your organization comply with regulatory requirements, reducing the risk of penalties from inaccuracies. Furthermore, these systems improve financial recordkeeping, providing accurate data that supports effective decision-making and audits. Timely Employee Payments Timely employee payments are essential for maintaining a productive and satisfied workforce, as studies indicate that 82% of employees view prompt payroll as a key factor in their overall job satisfaction. Using an HR payroll system like HCM to Go helps guarantee employees receive accurate payments on scheduled paydays, whether weekly or monthly. These automated systems integrate time tracking with payroll processing, reducing financial stress for employees and enhancing engagement. By making timely payments, you not only enhance retention but also avoid costly penalties associated with late payments, which can accumulate to thousands annually. For more information on effective HR payroll solutions, visit the HCM to Go website and explore how HCM companies can support your payroll needs. Regulatory Compliance Assurance Ensuring regulatory compliance is crucial for any business, as failing to meet payroll tax obligations can lead to significant penalties and legal issues. HR payroll systems help you stay compliant by: Automatically calculating and withholding federal, state, and local taxes, minimizing the risk of costly penalties. Providing real-time updates on changing labor laws and payroll regulations, so you’re always informed about evolving requirements. Maintaining detailed records of employee payments and tax filings, supporting your compliance with documentation requirements set by agencies like the IRS. Enhanced Financial Recordkeeping As businesses often juggle multiple responsibilities, maintaining accurate financial records is essential for effective payroll management. An HR payroll system helps you systematically track employee wages, hours worked, and deductions, ensuring compliance with tax and labor regulations. By automating payroll tax calculations, it reduces the risk of human error, which is critical for precise financial recordkeeping. The system generates detailed reports on payroll expenses, enabling you to analyze labor costs and make informed financial decisions. Furthermore, by securely storing payroll data, it facilitates easy access during audits and compliance checks. Improved financial recordkeeping can prevent costly penalties, like the $8.5 billion in civil penalties the IRS assessed in 2023 as a result of payroll compliance issues. Key Functions of Payroll Management Software Many businesses find that payroll management software plays a crucial role in streamlining their payroll processes. This software offers several key functions that improve efficiency and accuracy: Automated Calculations: It automates the calculation of employee wages based on hours worked, salary agreements, and necessary deductions for taxes and benefits, ensuring accurate payments. Tax Processing: The software handles payroll taxes by automatically calculating and withholding federal, state, and local taxes, keeping you compliant with regulations and deadlines. Employee Access: It provides employees with pay statements and access to self-service portals, which boosts transparency and allows them to easily track their earnings and deductions. Furthermore, detailed record-keeping features maintain accurate financial records necessary for audits and compliance with labor laws. The system can likewise alert you to changes in local laws, reducing the risk of penalties associated with payroll mismanagement. How Payroll Systems Calculate Employee Wages Payroll systems play a vital role in accurately calculating employee wages, a process that hinges on precise data input and effective time tracking. For hourly employees, the system tracks the hours worked and multiplies this by the hourly rate. For salaried employees, it divides the annual salary by the number of pay periods to compute gross pay. These systems can handle various pay structures, such as commission and piece rates, providing flexibility in compensation models. Accurate input of employee data is fundamental since even minor errors can lead to significant discrepancies in wage calculations. Once gross pay is calculated, the payroll system determines the net pay by automatically deducting necessary taxes and contributions, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. This systematic approach helps maintain accuracy and efficiency in payroll processing, ultimately ensuring that employees are paid correctly and on time. Processing Payroll Taxes and Deductions Processing payroll taxes and deductions is a crucial aspect of managing employee compensation. Your payroll system automatically calculates and withholds federal, state, and local taxes from employee paychecks, ensuring you comply with tax laws. Furthermore, you need to take into account various deductions that affect net pay: Social Security and Medicare: Contributions to these programs are mandatory and help employees secure benefits in the future. Retirement Plans: Deductions for 401(k) or other retirement savings options can help your employees plan for retirement as well as reducing taxable income. Health Insurance Premiums: If you offer health benefits, these premiums are likewise deducted from paychecks, impacting take-home pay. Your payroll software generates necessary tax forms like W-2s and 1099s, ensuring they’re filed accurately and on time. Keeping track of these deductions helps maintain organized financial records and prepares you for audits or reviews. Ensuring Compliance With Regulations When you implement an HR payroll system, you’re not just streamlining payroll but additionally ensuring compliance with various regulations. This system automatically monitors tax withholding accuracy, keeping you informed of any changes in laws that could affect your business. Plus, it helps fulfill recordkeeping requirements, making audits and compliance checks much easier to manage. Regulatory Compliance Monitoring Ensuring compliance with regulations in payroll systems is vital for businesses aiming to avoid costly penalties and maintain operational integrity. By implementing regulatory compliance monitoring, you can effectively adhere to various tax laws and reduce risks. Here are three key benefits of such systems: Automated Updates: Payroll systems automatically update tax rates and labor regulations, keeping you informed of any changes that affect employee paychecks. Alerts and Reminders: Many systems offer alerts for important compliance deadlines, such as tax filing dates, helping you stay on track. Detailed Recordkeeping: Compliance monitoring tools maintain records of employee payments and tax filings, which are critical for audits and meeting legal requirements. Tax Withholding Accuracy Tax withholding accuracy is a vital aspect of payroll management, as it directly impacts compliance with various regulations at federal, state, and local levels. Incorrect withholding can lead to costly penalties; in 2023, IRS penalties totaled $8.5 billion. Your payroll system should automatically calculate and withhold the correct amounts for federal income tax, Social Security, and Medicare, ensuring adherence to the latest tax laws. Regular updates are important to reflect any changes in tax rates or regulations. Furthermore, collecting accurate W-4 information from employees is important, as it determines the correct withholding amounts. Implementing automated payroll solutions can greatly reduce human error, enhancing accuracy and protecting your business from compliance-related issues. Recordkeeping Requirements Fulfillment Accurate recordkeeping plays a crucial role in payroll management, directly supporting compliance with various federal and state regulations. To guarantee you’re meeting these requirements, your HR payroll system should maintain detailed records, including: Employee Information: Names, Social Security numbers, and hours worked. Payment Details: Wages paid, tax withholdings, and adjustments. Compliance Documentation: Automated pay statements for transparency and audit readiness. Different Approaches to Payroll Management In relation to managing payroll, businesses have several approaches to choose from, each with distinct advantages and drawbacks. You can opt for a manual payroll system using spreadsheets, but be cautious, as this method is prone to errors and inefficiency, especially in larger organizations. On the other hand, in-house payroll software automates calculations and integrates with other systems, enhancing reliability by reducing administrative burdens. If you prefer to minimize in-house tasks, outsourcing payroll to third-party providers allows you to leverage external expertise, though it may incur higher costs. A hybrid approach combines in-house software for regular payroll cycles with outsourced services for specialized needs, such as international payroll compliance. Each method has unique pros and cons, so it’s essential to evaluate your organization’s size, complexity, and growth potential when deciding the most suitable approach to payroll management for your business. Benefits of Using an HR Payroll System When considering the implementation of an HR payroll system, you’ll find that it offers numerous benefits that can greatly improve your payroll processes. Here are three key advantages: Time Efficiency: Automating wage calculations, taxes, and deductions can reduce payroll processing time by up to 80%. This allows your staff to focus on more strategic tasks. Employee Satisfaction: By ensuring accurate and timely payments, these systems can boost employee satisfaction and retention, leading to a 25% increase in engagement metrics within your organization. Compliance and Accuracy: HR payroll systems help you stay compliant with evolving tax laws and labor regulations, reducing the risk of penalties that can average $8,500 per year for small businesses. Moreover, integrating time and attendance tracking can lead to a 30% reduction in payroll errors, ensuring employees are compensated correctly for their hours worked. Challenges and Limitations of Payroll Systems In spite of the many advantages of HR payroll systems, they come with a range of challenges and limitations that can impact their effectiveness. For instance, inaccurate calculations often arise from incorrect data entry, necessitating regular double-checks to avoid costly errors. Compliance issues with changing payroll tax rates can lead to penalties if the system fails to automate updates or provide timely reminders. Furthermore, many payroll systems struggle with scalability, making it critical for you to choose solutions that can grow alongside your increasing workforce. Handling diverse pay rates and varying employment contracts can complicate payroll processing, highlighting the need for flexible systems. In addition, researching potential systems is vital; overlooking common payroll pain points can create significant administrative burdens and financial implications for your business. Addressing these challenges is fundamental for ensuring that your payroll system operates efficiently and effectively. Choosing the Right HR Payroll System When you’re choosing the right HR payroll system, start by evaluating your business requirements to identify what features you truly need. It’s additionally important to analyze how well the system integrates with your existing software, as this can streamline processes and reduce errors. Finally, consider scalability options to guarantee the system can grow alongside your business, adapting to changes in employee numbers and payroll complexity. Assess Business Requirements Choosing the right HR payroll system starts with a thorough assessment of your business requirements, as this decision can greatly impact your organization’s efficiency. To guarantee you pick the best system, consider these key factors: Organization Size and Employee Count: Analyze how many employees you have and how your business may grow to guarantee the system can scale effectively. Payroll Frequency: Determine whether you need weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly payroll, as this influences system functionality. Compliance Needs: Evaluate local, state, and federal compliance requirements, guaranteeing the system can adapt to changes in tax laws and labor regulations. Evaluate Integration Capabilities Evaluating integration capabilities is vital for selecting an HR payroll system that meets your business needs, as seamless communication between payroll software and other HR applications can greatly improve operational efficiency. A robust system should support API integrations, allowing real-time data exchange and minimizing manual entry errors. It’s important that the payroll system is compatible with your existing business software, such as ERP and accounting tools, to guarantee streamlined financial processes and accurate reporting. Furthermore, the ability to integrate with third-party applications, like tax compliance and benefits providers, improves functionality and guarantees you meet regulatory requirements. Evaluating these integration capabilities can save you time and resources, helping you avoid disruptions and inefficiencies often caused by disjointed systems. Consider Scalability Options As your organization grows, ensuring that your HR payroll system can scale accordingly is crucial for maintaining efficiency and accuracy. To choose the right system, consider the following scalability options: Modular Components: Look for systems that allow you to add functionalities as needed, such as advanced reporting or multi-currency support for international operations. Cloud-Based Solutions: These typically offer greater flexibility, enabling easy access to payroll data from anywhere, which is important for remote work environments. Vendor Track Record: Evaluate vendors’ experience in your industry and their ability to adapt to regulatory changes, ensuring long-term compliance and operational efficiency. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Payroll System in HR? The payroll system in HR automates employee compensation management, calculating wages and tax deductions. It guarantees compliance with regulations by automatically withholding federal, state, and local taxes. You can access self-service portals to view pay statements and track hours worked. Integrating with timekeeping tools improves accuracy, reducing manual entry errors. A reliable payroll system boosts employee satisfaction by guaranteeing timely payments, ultimately leading to better retention rates and reduced financial stress. How Does HR Do Payroll? To manage payroll, HR first collects and verifies employee work hours, including overtime. They use software to automate calculations of gross pay, deduct taxes, and guarantee compliance with tax laws. HR maintains organized records of compensation and tax filings, adhering to legal retention requirements. After processing payroll, they issue payments and handle necessary post-payroll tasks, such as filing tax reports, streamlining the process during reducing manual errors through self-service portals for employees. What Are the Three Types of Payroll? There are three main types of payroll systems you can choose from: in-house payroll, outsourced payroll, and hybrid payroll. In-house payroll means your internal staff handles everything, providing more control but requiring significant administrative work. Outsourced payroll shifts responsibility to a third-party provider, reducing your workload but often at a higher cost. Hybrid payroll combines in-house management for regular tasks with outsourcing for compliance or international needs, offering flexibility customized to your business. What Is an Example of an HR System? An example of an HR system is ADP Workforce Now, which combines payroll processing with human resource management. This system automates payroll calculations, tracks employee time, and manages attendance. It furthermore offers self-service portals for employees to access pay statements and tax documents. In addition, ADP Workforce Now provides compliance support to help businesses adhere to labor laws, ensuring they minimize risks associated with penalties and maintain accurate employee records. Conclusion In conclusion, an HR payroll system is vital for efficiently managing employee compensation and ensuring compliance with labor laws. By automating wage calculations, tax withholdings, and deductions, these systems streamline payroll processes and reduce errors. They furthermore provide valuable self-service features for employees, enhancing job satisfaction. Although there are challenges to take into account, choosing the right payroll system can notably improve organizational effectiveness, making it a key investment for any business focused on efficiency and accuracy in payroll management. Image via Google Gemini This article, "What Is an HR Payroll System and How Does It Work?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

An HR payroll system is an essential software tool that streamlines the management of employee compensation. It automates various tasks, such as calculating wages, processing tax withholdings, and managing deductions. By integrating with timekeeping systems, it guarantees accurate tracking of hours worked. Comprehending how these systems function and their importance can greatly impact efficiency and compliance within your organization. As you explore further, you’ll discover the key features that make payroll systems indispensable in today’s workplaces. Key Takeaways An HR payroll system automates employee compensation, calculating wages, taxes, and deductions to ensure accurate and timely payments. It integrates with timekeeping systems to track hours worked, enhancing payroll accuracy and compliance with labor laws. The system automatically calculates tax withholdings, maintaining compliance with federal, state, and local regulations to avoid penalties. Employees can access pay statements and update personal information through self-service features, improving engagement and transparency. Payroll systems can be in-house, outsourced, or cloud-based, offering flexibility to fit various organizational needs and sizes. What Is an HR Payroll System? An HR payroll system is a crucial tool for managing employee compensation efficiently. This software application automates the management of wages, taxes, and deductions for each pay period, ensuring accuracy and compliance. By integrating with timekeeping and attendance systems, it accurately tracks hours worked, which is particularly important for hourly employees. With the HR payroll system, you don’t have to worry about manually withholding taxes and deductions, as it automatically handles these tasks, reducing the risk of IRS penalties. Furthermore, many businesses use an HCM platform that offers a human capital management login, giving employees access to pay statements, tax documents, and the ability to update personal information. This self-service feature improves transparency and boosts employee satisfaction. Depending on your organization’s needs, you can manage the HR payroll system in-house, outsource it to third-party providers, or opt for cloud-based solutions to fit various business sizes and intricacies. Importance of HR Payroll Systems HR payroll systems play a crucial role in ensuring you make timely payments to your employees, which is fundamental for maintaining their satisfaction and loyalty. They likewise help your organization comply with regulatory requirements, reducing the risk of penalties from inaccuracies. Furthermore, these systems improve financial recordkeeping, providing accurate data that supports effective decision-making and audits. Timely Employee Payments Timely employee payments are essential for maintaining a productive and satisfied workforce, as studies indicate that 82% of employees view prompt payroll as a key factor in their overall job satisfaction. Using an HR payroll system like HCM to Go helps guarantee employees receive accurate payments on scheduled paydays, whether weekly or monthly. These automated systems integrate time tracking with payroll processing, reducing financial stress for employees and enhancing engagement. By making timely payments, you not only enhance retention but also avoid costly penalties associated with late payments, which can accumulate to thousands annually. For more information on effective HR payroll solutions, visit the HCM to Go website and explore how HCM companies can support your payroll needs. Regulatory Compliance Assurance Ensuring regulatory compliance is crucial for any business, as failing to meet payroll tax obligations can lead to significant penalties and legal issues. HR payroll systems help you stay compliant by: Automatically calculating and withholding federal, state, and local taxes, minimizing the risk of costly penalties. Providing real-time updates on changing labor laws and payroll regulations, so you’re always informed about evolving requirements. Maintaining detailed records of employee payments and tax filings, supporting your compliance with documentation requirements set by agencies like the IRS. Enhanced Financial Recordkeeping As businesses often juggle multiple responsibilities, maintaining accurate financial records is essential for effective payroll management. An HR payroll system helps you systematically track employee wages, hours worked, and deductions, ensuring compliance with tax and labor regulations. By automating payroll tax calculations, it reduces the risk of human error, which is critical for precise financial recordkeeping. The system generates detailed reports on payroll expenses, enabling you to analyze labor costs and make informed financial decisions. Furthermore, by securely storing payroll data, it facilitates easy access during audits and compliance checks. Improved financial recordkeeping can prevent costly penalties, like the $8.5 billion in civil penalties the IRS assessed in 2023 as a result of payroll compliance issues. Key Functions of Payroll Management Software Many businesses find that payroll management software plays a crucial role in streamlining their payroll processes. This software offers several key functions that improve efficiency and accuracy: Automated Calculations: It automates the calculation of employee wages based on hours worked, salary agreements, and necessary deductions for taxes and benefits, ensuring accurate payments. Tax Processing: The software handles payroll taxes by automatically calculating and withholding federal, state, and local taxes, keeping you compliant with regulations and deadlines. Employee Access: It provides employees with pay statements and access to self-service portals, which boosts transparency and allows them to easily track their earnings and deductions. Furthermore, detailed record-keeping features maintain accurate financial records necessary for audits and compliance with labor laws. The system can likewise alert you to changes in local laws, reducing the risk of penalties associated with payroll mismanagement. How Payroll Systems Calculate Employee Wages Payroll systems play a vital role in accurately calculating employee wages, a process that hinges on precise data input and effective time tracking. For hourly employees, the system tracks the hours worked and multiplies this by the hourly rate. For salaried employees, it divides the annual salary by the number of pay periods to compute gross pay. These systems can handle various pay structures, such as commission and piece rates, providing flexibility in compensation models. Accurate input of employee data is fundamental since even minor errors can lead to significant discrepancies in wage calculations. Once gross pay is calculated, the payroll system determines the net pay by automatically deducting necessary taxes and contributions, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. This systematic approach helps maintain accuracy and efficiency in payroll processing, ultimately ensuring that employees are paid correctly and on time. Processing Payroll Taxes and Deductions Processing payroll taxes and deductions is a crucial aspect of managing employee compensation. Your payroll system automatically calculates and withholds federal, state, and local taxes from employee paychecks, ensuring you comply with tax laws. Furthermore, you need to take into account various deductions that affect net pay: Social Security and Medicare: Contributions to these programs are mandatory and help employees secure benefits in the future. Retirement Plans: Deductions for 401(k) or other retirement savings options can help your employees plan for retirement as well as reducing taxable income. Health Insurance Premiums: If you offer health benefits, these premiums are likewise deducted from paychecks, impacting take-home pay. Your payroll software generates necessary tax forms like W-2s and 1099s, ensuring they’re filed accurately and on time. Keeping track of these deductions helps maintain organized financial records and prepares you for audits or reviews. Ensuring Compliance With Regulations When you implement an HR payroll system, you’re not just streamlining payroll but additionally ensuring compliance with various regulations. This system automatically monitors tax withholding accuracy, keeping you informed of any changes in laws that could affect your business. Plus, it helps fulfill recordkeeping requirements, making audits and compliance checks much easier to manage. Regulatory Compliance Monitoring Ensuring compliance with regulations in payroll systems is vital for businesses aiming to avoid costly penalties and maintain operational integrity. By implementing regulatory compliance monitoring, you can effectively adhere to various tax laws and reduce risks. Here are three key benefits of such systems: Automated Updates: Payroll systems automatically update tax rates and labor regulations, keeping you informed of any changes that affect employee paychecks. Alerts and Reminders: Many systems offer alerts for important compliance deadlines, such as tax filing dates, helping you stay on track. Detailed Recordkeeping: Compliance monitoring tools maintain records of employee payments and tax filings, which are critical for audits and meeting legal requirements. Tax Withholding Accuracy Tax withholding accuracy is a vital aspect of payroll management, as it directly impacts compliance with various regulations at federal, state, and local levels. Incorrect withholding can lead to costly penalties; in 2023, IRS penalties totaled $8.5 billion. Your payroll system should automatically calculate and withhold the correct amounts for federal income tax, Social Security, and Medicare, ensuring adherence to the latest tax laws. Regular updates are important to reflect any changes in tax rates or regulations. Furthermore, collecting accurate W-4 information from employees is important, as it determines the correct withholding amounts. Implementing automated payroll solutions can greatly reduce human error, enhancing accuracy and protecting your business from compliance-related issues. Recordkeeping Requirements Fulfillment Accurate recordkeeping plays a crucial role in payroll management, directly supporting compliance with various federal and state regulations. To guarantee you’re meeting these requirements, your HR payroll system should maintain detailed records, including: Employee Information: Names, Social Security numbers, and hours worked. Payment Details: Wages paid, tax withholdings, and adjustments. Compliance Documentation: Automated pay statements for transparency and audit readiness. Different Approaches to Payroll Management In relation to managing payroll, businesses have several approaches to choose from, each with distinct advantages and drawbacks. You can opt for a manual payroll system using spreadsheets, but be cautious, as this method is prone to errors and inefficiency, especially in larger organizations. On the other hand, in-house payroll software automates calculations and integrates with other systems, enhancing reliability by reducing administrative burdens. If you prefer to minimize in-house tasks, outsourcing payroll to third-party providers allows you to leverage external expertise, though it may incur higher costs. A hybrid approach combines in-house software for regular payroll cycles with outsourced services for specialized needs, such as international payroll compliance. Each method has unique pros and cons, so it’s essential to evaluate your organization’s size, complexity, and growth potential when deciding the most suitable approach to payroll management for your business. Benefits of Using an HR Payroll System When considering the implementation of an HR payroll system, you’ll find that it offers numerous benefits that can greatly improve your payroll processes. Here are three key advantages: Time Efficiency: Automating wage calculations, taxes, and deductions can reduce payroll processing time by up to 80%. This allows your staff to focus on more strategic tasks. Employee Satisfaction: By ensuring accurate and timely payments, these systems can boost employee satisfaction and retention, leading to a 25% increase in engagement metrics within your organization. Compliance and Accuracy: HR payroll systems help you stay compliant with evolving tax laws and labor regulations, reducing the risk of penalties that can average $8,500 per year for small businesses. Moreover, integrating time and attendance tracking can lead to a 30% reduction in payroll errors, ensuring employees are compensated correctly for their hours worked. Challenges and Limitations of Payroll Systems In spite of the many advantages of HR payroll systems, they come with a range of challenges and limitations that can impact their effectiveness. For instance, inaccurate calculations often arise from incorrect data entry, necessitating regular double-checks to avoid costly errors. Compliance issues with changing payroll tax rates can lead to penalties if the system fails to automate updates or provide timely reminders. Furthermore, many payroll systems struggle with scalability, making it critical for you to choose solutions that can grow alongside your increasing workforce. Handling diverse pay rates and varying employment contracts can complicate payroll processing, highlighting the need for flexible systems. In addition, researching potential systems is vital; overlooking common payroll pain points can create significant administrative burdens and financial implications for your business. Addressing these challenges is fundamental for ensuring that your payroll system operates efficiently and effectively. Choosing the Right HR Payroll System When you’re choosing the right HR payroll system, start by evaluating your business requirements to identify what features you truly need. It’s additionally important to analyze how well the system integrates with your existing software, as this can streamline processes and reduce errors. Finally, consider scalability options to guarantee the system can grow alongside your business, adapting to changes in employee numbers and payroll complexity. Assess Business Requirements Choosing the right HR payroll system starts with a thorough assessment of your business requirements, as this decision can greatly impact your organization’s efficiency. To guarantee you pick the best system, consider these key factors: Organization Size and Employee Count: Analyze how many employees you have and how your business may grow to guarantee the system can scale effectively. Payroll Frequency: Determine whether you need weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly payroll, as this influences system functionality. Compliance Needs: Evaluate local, state, and federal compliance requirements, guaranteeing the system can adapt to changes in tax laws and labor regulations. Evaluate Integration Capabilities Evaluating integration capabilities is vital for selecting an HR payroll system that meets your business needs, as seamless communication between payroll software and other HR applications can greatly improve operational efficiency. A robust system should support API integrations, allowing real-time data exchange and minimizing manual entry errors. It’s important that the payroll system is compatible with your existing business software, such as ERP and accounting tools, to guarantee streamlined financial processes and accurate reporting. Furthermore, the ability to integrate with third-party applications, like tax compliance and benefits providers, improves functionality and guarantees you meet regulatory requirements. Evaluating these integration capabilities can save you time and resources, helping you avoid disruptions and inefficiencies often caused by disjointed systems. Consider Scalability Options As your organization grows, ensuring that your HR payroll system can scale accordingly is crucial for maintaining efficiency and accuracy. To choose the right system, consider the following scalability options: Modular Components: Look for systems that allow you to add functionalities as needed, such as advanced reporting or multi-currency support for international operations. Cloud-Based Solutions: These typically offer greater flexibility, enabling easy access to payroll data from anywhere, which is important for remote work environments. Vendor Track Record: Evaluate vendors’ experience in your industry and their ability to adapt to regulatory changes, ensuring long-term compliance and operational efficiency. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Payroll System in HR? The payroll system in HR automates employee compensation management, calculating wages and tax deductions. It guarantees compliance with regulations by automatically withholding federal, state, and local taxes. You can access self-service portals to view pay statements and track hours worked. Integrating with timekeeping tools improves accuracy, reducing manual entry errors. A reliable payroll system boosts employee satisfaction by guaranteeing timely payments, ultimately leading to better retention rates and reduced financial stress. How Does HR Do Payroll? To manage payroll, HR first collects and verifies employee work hours, including overtime. They use software to automate calculations of gross pay, deduct taxes, and guarantee compliance with tax laws. HR maintains organized records of compensation and tax filings, adhering to legal retention requirements. After processing payroll, they issue payments and handle necessary post-payroll tasks, such as filing tax reports, streamlining the process during reducing manual errors through self-service portals for employees. What Are the Three Types of Payroll? There are three main types of payroll systems you can choose from: in-house payroll, outsourced payroll, and hybrid payroll. In-house payroll means your internal staff handles everything, providing more control but requiring significant administrative work. Outsourced payroll shifts responsibility to a third-party provider, reducing your workload but often at a higher cost. Hybrid payroll combines in-house management for regular tasks with outsourcing for compliance or international needs, offering flexibility customized to your business. What Is an Example of an HR System? An example of an HR system is ADP Workforce Now, which combines payroll processing with human resource management. This system automates payroll calculations, tracks employee time, and manages attendance. It furthermore offers self-service portals for employees to access pay statements and tax documents. In addition, ADP Workforce Now provides compliance support to help businesses adhere to labor laws, ensuring they minimize risks associated with penalties and maintain accurate employee records. Conclusion In conclusion, an HR payroll system is vital for efficiently managing employee compensation and ensuring compliance with labor laws. By automating wage calculations, tax withholdings, and deductions, these systems streamline payroll processes and reduce errors. They furthermore provide valuable self-service features for employees, enhancing job satisfaction. Although there are challenges to take into account, choosing the right payroll system can notably improve organizational effectiveness, making it a key investment for any business focused on efficiency and accuracy in payroll management. Image via Google Gemini This article, "What Is an HR Payroll System and How Does It Work?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

New York investment group backtracks from earlier plan to reopen to withdrawals View the full article

Running a background check on yourself can be a smart move, especially if you’re preparing for a new job or simply want to know what information is out there. Start by gathering your personal information, like your full name and Social Security number, which is essential for accuracy. Next, you’ll need to choose a reliable background check service. Each step is important, and the results can reveal surprises that you might want to address. Key Takeaways Gather your full legal name, SSN, previous addresses, date of birth, and employment history for verification purposes. Choose a reliable, FCRA-compliant background check service that offers thorough checks and has positive customer reviews. Submit your personal information accurately through the chosen background check service’s online form. Review the background check results carefully, focusing on identity verification, criminal history, and employment details for discrepancies. Address any inaccuracies by gathering supporting documentation and contacting the provider to dispute errors promptly. Gather Your Personal Information To effectively run a background check on yourself, start by gathering vital personal information. First, collect your full legal name, including any past names or aliases, to guarantee accurate results. Next, you’ll need your Social Security number (SSN) for identity verification and tracing address history. Compile a list of all your previous addresses from the past seven years, as this information is often required for thorough checks. Prepare your date of birth, which is fundamental for verifying your identity and accessing public records. If you’ve had a job, include details about your employment history, such as job titles and employment dates, to facilitate accurate verification. By organizing this information, you’ll not just understand how to run a background check on yourself but additionally know how to check your background check for free later on. Taking these steps will guarantee a smooth background check process. Choose a Background Check Service Choosing the right background check service is crucial, as it can greatly impact the accuracy and completeness of the information you’re able to gather about yourself. Start by prioritizing FCRA-compliant providers to guarantee they adhere to legal standards and protect your rights. Look for services that offer thorough checks, including criminal history, employment verification, education verification, and social media assessments, for a well-rounded view of your background. When evaluating options, consider the speed and cost of the service. Basic checks usually range from $20 to $50, whereas more extensive options might exceed $100. Don’t forget to read customer reviews and ratings to gauge reliability and accuracy. Guarantee there’s a clear dispute process for inaccuracies. Check for detailed reporting on your background. Look for user-friendly interfaces. Verify turnaround times. Compare pricing against features offered. Submit Your Information Submitting your information for a background check requires careful attention to detail. First, provide your full legal name, including any previous names, along with your date of birth and Social Security number. This guarantees the results are accurate and relevant. Choose a reliable, FCRA-compliant background check service, such as Checkr or iprospectcheck, to protect your privacy and rights throughout the process. When filling out the online form, make certain all information is complete and accurate. Discrepancies can lead to incorrect results or delays in processing. After submitting, you’ll typically receive the background check results electronically, allowing you to review them quickly. Be prepared to take action if any discrepancies arise; gather evidence to correct or dispute inaccuracies found in the report. This proactive approach helps you maintain an accurate personal record and addresses any potential issues swiftly. Review the Background Check Results Once you’ve submitted your information and received your background check results, it’s important to carefully review every detail in the report. Focus on sections like identity verification, criminal history, and employment verification to guarantee everything is accurate and up-to-date. Pay close attention to discrepancies between the report and your personal records—incorrect addresses or employment dates can raise concerns for potential employers. Check for any criminal records, making sure no felonies or misdemeanors that aren’t yours are listed, as these can greatly impact your job prospects. Evaluate public records, like court documents or driving records, to verify they accurately reflect your history. If you notice any inaccuracies, act quickly to dispute the findings with the background check provider. Your future job prospects depend on it. Wrong information can lead to missed opportunities. Peace of mind is crucial. Accuracy shapes your professional image. Stay proactive to protect yourself. Address Any Discrepancies or Errors When reviewing your background check report, it’s crucial to identify any discrepancies or errors that could impact your professional opportunities. Look for outdated information that doesn’t align with your records. Type of Discrepancy Action to Take Employment Inaccuracies Gather pay stubs or employment letters Education Errors Collect transcripts or diplomas Identity Theft Concerns Consider a fraud alert or credit freeze General Inaccuracies Contact the background check provider If you find inaccuracies, contact the background check provider with supporting documentation to dispute errors. Furthermore, monitor your credit report regularly. You can access a free copy annually through the FCRA to check for mistakes. If you suspect identity theft, placing a fraud alert or credit freeze can prevent unauthorized access to your information. Taking these steps guarantees you maintain accurate and reliable records, safeguarding your professional prospects. Frequently Asked Questions How Do You Run a Basic Background Check? To run a basic background check, start by gathering your full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Next, choose a reputable background check service that provides thorough searches, including criminal records and employment verification. Request a national criminal records search to uncover any past convictions. After receiving your report, carefully review it for discrepancies. If you find inaccuracies, quickly dispute them with the provider to confirm your record is accurate. How to Run Your Own Background Check on Yourself? To run your own background check, start by collecting crucial personal information, like your full legal name and Social Security number. Next, select a reputable background check service that follows FCRA regulations. After obtaining your report, review it carefully to identify any inaccuracies or outdated details. If you find errors, contact the service to dispute them. Familiarize yourself with your rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act to guarantee you can access and correct your information. Can a Regular Person Run a Background Check? Yes, a regular person can run a background check on themselves. You can access various online services that provide detailed reports, including criminal records and employment history. Many reputable platforms, such as Checkr and iprospectcheck, offer simple processes for requesting your own report. Furthermore, comprehending your rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is essential, as it allows you to dispute inaccuracies that could impact your reputation. What Is the Quickest Way to Get a Background Check? The quickest way to get a background check is to use a professional background check service like Checkr or iprospectcheck. These services often deliver results within 1 to 5 business days. To speed up the process, provide accurate personal information, including your full name, Social Security number, and past addresses. Make certain you choose a provider compliant with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) for accurate and lawful information. You’ll access your report easily online. Conclusion Running a background check on yourself is a practical way to guarantee your personal information is accurate. By following the five steps outlined, you can gather necessary information, choose a reliable service, and review your results methodically. Addressing any discrepancies swiftly is essential for maintaining your credibility. Regularly checking your background can likewise help you stay informed about what others might find. Taking these steps will empower you to manage your personal information effectively. Image via Google Gemini This article, "How to Run a Background Check on Yourself in 5 Simple Steps" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Running a background check on yourself can be a smart move, especially if you’re preparing for a new job or simply want to know what information is out there. Start by gathering your personal information, like your full name and Social Security number, which is essential for accuracy. Next, you’ll need to choose a reliable background check service. Each step is important, and the results can reveal surprises that you might want to address. Key Takeaways Gather your full legal name, SSN, previous addresses, date of birth, and employment history for verification purposes. Choose a reliable, FCRA-compliant background check service that offers thorough checks and has positive customer reviews. Submit your personal information accurately through the chosen background check service’s online form. Review the background check results carefully, focusing on identity verification, criminal history, and employment details for discrepancies. Address any inaccuracies by gathering supporting documentation and contacting the provider to dispute errors promptly. Gather Your Personal Information To effectively run a background check on yourself, start by gathering vital personal information. First, collect your full legal name, including any past names or aliases, to guarantee accurate results. Next, you’ll need your Social Security number (SSN) for identity verification and tracing address history. Compile a list of all your previous addresses from the past seven years, as this information is often required for thorough checks. Prepare your date of birth, which is fundamental for verifying your identity and accessing public records. If you’ve had a job, include details about your employment history, such as job titles and employment dates, to facilitate accurate verification. By organizing this information, you’ll not just understand how to run a background check on yourself but additionally know how to check your background check for free later on. Taking these steps will guarantee a smooth background check process. Choose a Background Check Service Choosing the right background check service is crucial, as it can greatly impact the accuracy and completeness of the information you’re able to gather about yourself. Start by prioritizing FCRA-compliant providers to guarantee they adhere to legal standards and protect your rights. Look for services that offer thorough checks, including criminal history, employment verification, education verification, and social media assessments, for a well-rounded view of your background. When evaluating options, consider the speed and cost of the service. Basic checks usually range from $20 to $50, whereas more extensive options might exceed $100. Don’t forget to read customer reviews and ratings to gauge reliability and accuracy. Guarantee there’s a clear dispute process for inaccuracies. Check for detailed reporting on your background. Look for user-friendly interfaces. Verify turnaround times. Compare pricing against features offered. Submit Your Information Submitting your information for a background check requires careful attention to detail. First, provide your full legal name, including any previous names, along with your date of birth and Social Security number. This guarantees the results are accurate and relevant. Choose a reliable, FCRA-compliant background check service, such as Checkr or iprospectcheck, to protect your privacy and rights throughout the process. When filling out the online form, make certain all information is complete and accurate. Discrepancies can lead to incorrect results or delays in processing. After submitting, you’ll typically receive the background check results electronically, allowing you to review them quickly. Be prepared to take action if any discrepancies arise; gather evidence to correct or dispute inaccuracies found in the report. This proactive approach helps you maintain an accurate personal record and addresses any potential issues swiftly. Review the Background Check Results Once you’ve submitted your information and received your background check results, it’s important to carefully review every detail in the report. Focus on sections like identity verification, criminal history, and employment verification to guarantee everything is accurate and up-to-date. Pay close attention to discrepancies between the report and your personal records—incorrect addresses or employment dates can raise concerns for potential employers. Check for any criminal records, making sure no felonies or misdemeanors that aren’t yours are listed, as these can greatly impact your job prospects. Evaluate public records, like court documents or driving records, to verify they accurately reflect your history. If you notice any inaccuracies, act quickly to dispute the findings with the background check provider. Your future job prospects depend on it. Wrong information can lead to missed opportunities. Peace of mind is crucial. Accuracy shapes your professional image. Stay proactive to protect yourself. Address Any Discrepancies or Errors When reviewing your background check report, it’s crucial to identify any discrepancies or errors that could impact your professional opportunities. Look for outdated information that doesn’t align with your records. Type of Discrepancy Action to Take Employment Inaccuracies Gather pay stubs or employment letters Education Errors Collect transcripts or diplomas Identity Theft Concerns Consider a fraud alert or credit freeze General Inaccuracies Contact the background check provider If you find inaccuracies, contact the background check provider with supporting documentation to dispute errors. Furthermore, monitor your credit report regularly. You can access a free copy annually through the FCRA to check for mistakes. If you suspect identity theft, placing a fraud alert or credit freeze can prevent unauthorized access to your information. Taking these steps guarantees you maintain accurate and reliable records, safeguarding your professional prospects. Frequently Asked Questions How Do You Run a Basic Background Check? To run a basic background check, start by gathering your full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Next, choose a reputable background check service that provides thorough searches, including criminal records and employment verification. Request a national criminal records search to uncover any past convictions. After receiving your report, carefully review it for discrepancies. If you find inaccuracies, quickly dispute them with the provider to confirm your record is accurate. How to Run Your Own Background Check on Yourself? To run your own background check, start by collecting crucial personal information, like your full legal name and Social Security number. Next, select a reputable background check service that follows FCRA regulations. After obtaining your report, review it carefully to identify any inaccuracies or outdated details. If you find errors, contact the service to dispute them. Familiarize yourself with your rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act to guarantee you can access and correct your information. Can a Regular Person Run a Background Check? Yes, a regular person can run a background check on themselves. You can access various online services that provide detailed reports, including criminal records and employment history. Many reputable platforms, such as Checkr and iprospectcheck, offer simple processes for requesting your own report. Furthermore, comprehending your rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is essential, as it allows you to dispute inaccuracies that could impact your reputation. What Is the Quickest Way to Get a Background Check? The quickest way to get a background check is to use a professional background check service like Checkr or iprospectcheck. These services often deliver results within 1 to 5 business days. To speed up the process, provide accurate personal information, including your full name, Social Security number, and past addresses. Make certain you choose a provider compliant with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) for accurate and lawful information. You’ll access your report easily online. Conclusion Running a background check on yourself is a practical way to guarantee your personal information is accurate. By following the five steps outlined, you can gather necessary information, choose a reliable service, and review your results methodically. Addressing any discrepancies swiftly is essential for maintaining your credibility. Regularly checking your background can likewise help you stay informed about what others might find. Taking these steps will empower you to manage your personal information effectively. Image via Google Gemini This article, "How to Run a Background Check on Yourself in 5 Simple Steps" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

International concerns have mounted over the impact of the country’s economic policiesView the full article

Ministers warn platforms could have their services blocked in Britain if they fail to actView the full article

David Nemecek moves after private capital groups pushed back against his tacticsView the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. Google is releasing their budget a-series version of the Pixel 10 on March 5, a whole month earlier than the 9a was released in 2025. There is not much dividing the 10a from the 9a, but there are a few software updates that can make it worth it for some people. Throw in a $100 Amazon gift card, and it's hard to say no. Google has the pre-orders for the Google 10a out already, going for $499, plus the gift card. Alternatively, you can get their Pixel Buds 2a instead of the $100 gift card for the same $499 price. Google Pixel 10a - Obsidian - 128 GB with Pixel Buds 2a Bundle $499.00 at Amazon $628.00 Save $129.00 Get Deal Get Deal $499.00 at Amazon $628.00 Save $129.00 Google Pixel 10a 128GB 6.3" Unlocked Smartphone + $100 Gift Card $499.00 at Amazon $599.00 Save $100.00 Get Deal Get Deal $499.00 at Amazon $599.00 Save $100.00 SEE -1 MORE Lifehacker's Associate Tech Editor Michelle Ehrhardt actually got her hands on the Pixel 10a during a recent Google demo event. As she pointed out, the specs on the Pixel 10a are not like the Pixel 10. It's more similar to the 9 instead. It has a Tensor G4 processor, 8GB of RAM, and up to 256GB of storage, as well as the same camera system, with a 48MP main lens, a 13MP ultrawide lens, and a 13MP selfie camera. The battery life is the same 30+ hours, too, and the MagSafe-like Pixelsnap feature is gone. The main upgrade here is a brighter 3,000 nits screen, a thinner bezel, and an improved Corning Gorilla Glass 7i cover glass. But the value might be in the software and AI. There are two AI camera features that debuted with the Pixel 10. One is Auto Best Take, which takes 150 frames in one click, chooses the best picture, and automatically deletes the rest (or stitches together elements from multiple shots to make a new "best" image). And Camera Coach, which guides you with AI on how to take the best picture. Google also brought Satellite SOS for the first time to an a-series phone. It lets you connect to a Satellite and ping emergency services for help if you have no cell signal. If you're thinking of upgrading from a Pixel 9a or later, there's not much here to make it worth it. However, if you have anything older than a Pixel 9 or are switching to Pixel for the first time, this is a great opportunity and phone to do so. Our Best Editor-Vetted Tech Deals Right Now Apple AirPods 4 Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds — $158.00 (List Price $179.00) Apple iPad 11" 128GB A16 WiFi Tablet (Blue, 2025) — $329.00 (List Price $349.00) Apple Watch Series 11 [GPS 46mm] Smartwatch with Jet Black Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band - M/L. Sleep Score, Fitness Tracker, Health Monitoring, Always-On Display, Water Resistant — $329.00 (List Price $429.00) Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus — $29.99 (List Price $49.99) Bose QuietComfort Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones — $229.00 (List Price $349.00) Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 64GB Wi-Fi 11" Tablet (Silver) — $159.99 (List Price $219.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

Peec AI analyzed fan-out queries from 10M+ ChatGPT prompts and found 43% of background searches ran in English, even for non-English prompts. The post ChatGPT Search Often Switches To English In Fan-Out Queries: Report appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

When Apple released the first beta for iOS 26.4 this week, testers immediately got to work looking for each and every new feature and change. To their credit, there's more new here than in iOS 26.3, including an AI playlist generator for Apple Music and support for end-to-end encryption with RCS (finally). But one update slipped under the radar, since it's not actually available to test in this first beta: CarPlay support for AI assistants like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini. AI assistants are coming to CarPlay in iOS 26.4As spotted by MacRumors, CarPlay's Developer Guide spills the beans on this upcoming integration. On page 13, the entitlement "CarPlay voice-based conversational app" is listed with a minimum iOS version of iOS 26.4. While it doesn't specifically mention integrations with ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini, the documentation does suggest that voice-based conversational apps are a supported app type in iOS 26.4. As such, MacRumors is reporting that companies that make chatbots (i.e. OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google) will need to update their apps to work with CarPlay. According to MacRumors, drivers will be able to ask apps like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini questions while on the road, but they won't be able to control functions of the car or the driver's iPhone. You also won't be able to use a "wake word" to activate the assistant (e.g. "Hey ChatGPT," or "OK, Gemini"), so you'll need to tap on the app itself to talk to the assistant. Apple is issuing guidance to developers on how to implement these assistants in CarPlay starting with this latest update. On page seven, Apple notes that voice-based conversational apps must only work when voice features are actively being used, and avoid showing text or imagery when responding to queries. It's the first time Apple is allowing developers of "voice-based conversational" apps to develop for CarPlay. While the company has allowed other developers to make apps for its in-car experience, it has obviously put limitations on what types of apps can get through. It makes sense for Google to develop a Google Maps CarPlay app, but TikTok has no business offering drivers a CarPlay-version of its algorithm. Install the iOS 26.4 at your own riskThis addition is coming to iOS 26.4, but likely in a future beta. Don't install the beta at this time expecting to try this feature out—though, you should think twice before installing the beta at all. Betas like iOS 26.4 are temperamental, as Apple is currently testing the software for bugs and stability issues. By installing it early, you risk dealing with those issues, which could impact how you use your iPhone, or even result in data loss. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. A new software update for recent Garmin watches adds “glances” for types of data that weren’t previously viewable from the watch face. These include battery usage stats, lifestyle logging, sleep alignment, and even a few extras like sports scores. The update also includes features other than glances, including, notably, fitness coaching. The features I’m writing about are now available in the Forerunner 570, Forerunner 970, and Vivoactive 6, as well as the Fenix 8 series, Venu 4, and X1. (The watch in my photos here is a Forerunner 570.) New glances for Garmin watches Credit: Beth Skwarecki Glances are those little strips of data that you can see when you scroll up (or down) from the main watch face—things like the weather and your training status, for example. Garmin’s newest stable update for the Forerunner 570 and 970 is numbered 16.28, and has been rolling out slowly over the past week. (I just got it on my 570.) Here are my favorite new glances: Battery usage: The new battery widget has the charge level, of course, but tapping it shows you a graph of your battery life, including its long-term history, and a list of which apps or functions have been using the most battery. Lifestyle logging: If you’ve been using the new Lifestyle Logging feature in the Garmin Connect app, you can now do it from your wrist. This is where you select a few health-related habits to track every day. The glance will tell you how many items you’ve logged today, and you can quickly answer these yes or no questions without opening your phone. Sleep alignment: The sleep glance has been around a while, but it now includes more data, including your optimal sleep window and whether you’re aligned with it. Sports scores: You can select a handful of your favorite teams to receive up to date scores on your wrist. This was surprisingly easy to set up without even unlocking my phone: You just choose a league (MLB, NFL, NCAA men’s or women’s, to name a few) and then scroll until you find the city name for your favorite team. Alphabetizing by city rather than team name is smart, especially if you’re going through the menus picking all your hometown teams. This widget seems to show the next upcoming game if your chosen team hasn’t played a recent game. Weight tracking: From this glance you can see your current body weight, and tap through to see trends and history. Other new features Garmin added in its latest update Credit: Beth Skwarecki Besides the glances, Garmin added a bunch of other features to its watches. According to the release notes, Garmin says that pace readings (presumably during runs) have been improved to be more responsive. I look forward to trying that out. There are also color filters—instead of just turning on a red shift for nighttime, you can choose other colors as well. Training plans also get more capabilities. In addition to the usual running and cycling plans, there’s now a fitness coach, similar to what launched on the Venu 4. This lets you set up a plan that gives you a mix of cardio and strength workouts, though I found that the coach's endurance workouts don’t actually specify the activity. Typically, when selecting my “basic endurance” workout that’s planned for today, the watch prompts me to select from my usual list of endurance activities: run, trail run, treadmill run, indoor bike, and so on. The coach, however, will simply tell you to do "endurance" or "cardio" for 20 minutes. You could choose to run, but you could also hike or use the elliptical, for instance. For the strength workouts, I told the coach that I have access to a full gym, so my next strength workout will include deadlifts and squats. It looks like a pretty solid plan for somebody who wants well-rounded fitness without committing to running a race. View the full article