With the recession going on because of the coronavirus pandemic, many companies are reducing their workforce in response to changes in operations. As a result, your organization’s unemployment claims may be increasing. If so, your experience ratings are being reevaluated, which can cause your state unemployment tax rates to increase. Therefore, you need to know how you can minimize the impact of unemployment claims on your business.
Discover five ways unemployment claims impact your company and what you can do about it.
Minimize Your Terminations and Reductions in Force
Reduce your number of terminations and reductions in force as much as possible. Some employees who lost a job could claim unemployment benefits if they were terminated due to financial cutbacks, because they weren’t a good fit for the job, or because of a minor incident. These numbers affect your state unemployment tax rates. To avoid termination or reduction, consider a furlough or temporary reduction in hours or pay.
Check Your Base Year Employer Forms
Pay close attention to the Notice to Base Year Employer forms you receive. These come when a former employee becomes separated from their next employer and files for unemployment benefits. The forms show the percentage of their unemployment you’ll be charged unless you respond within 30 days. Your response can limit the number of benefits your company ends up paying.
Your Account May Be Charged for an Employee Who Quits
Be aware that your state unemployment insurance account can be charged for an employee who quits because of reasons attributable to your company. For instance, a change in the worksite may increase the employee’s commute or difficulty of travel. Because the amount of money you pay in unemployment benefits is related to the number of former employees who collect payments after leaving your company, you want to keep this number to a minimum.
Protect Your Company with Documentation
Maintain detailed records on each employee. Clear documentation can prove the validity of your response to an unemployment benefits claim. Your records should include employment policies, job descriptions, contracts, offers, and other job-related information. Have the employee sign every document to show they reviewed and understood the information.
Manage Your Workforce with a Staffing Agency
One of the best ways to manage your fluctuating workforce needs is to partner with a staffing agency. Because the agency bears the liability for temporary and contract employees, it also is responsible for their unemployment benefits. You can blend temporary or contract employees with your full-time staff with no financial impact on your company when they leave.
Hire Accounting and Finance Professionals
Unemployment claims have a significant impact on your company’s bottom line. Implementing the above tips to reduce the expenses related to your unemployment insurance can help your company save money long-term.
When you need help reducing the amount of money your organization spends, get in touch with Casey Accounting & Finance Resources. Our staffing consultants can provide innovative and creative solutions that exceed your expectations. Get more information today.
