Employer News | September 2013

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September | VOLUME #98

Don't Miss the Employer Training Workshops

December 12 and 13 in Anchorage at the Captain Cook Hotel

Employer Workshop

All Employers and Political Subdivisions are invited to learn about the following topics:

  • Rehired Annuitants
  • Scattered Leave Without Pay
  • Federal Voluntary Compliance Program
  • Guidelines for Gaming Activities
  • Independent Contractors vs. Employees
  • New Health Care Information

Learn more and register

Have a suggestion for a topic? Submit a topic suggestion.


Are You Hiring Employees or Independent Contractors?

Division Auditors Can Help You Find the Answer

Employees

A common problem that Division auditors discover when performing employer audits is that the employer has incorrectly classified an employee as an independent contractor. Independent contractors should:

  • Perform duties that are not part of the normal work flow;
  • Perform a task that has a specific result (end date);
  • Expect to receive income from more than one source;
  • Have a business license;
  • Have a business premises; and
  • Provide services to more than one employer.  

If an auditor determines that an employee is incorrectly classified as an independent contractor, both the member and employer will have to pay any retirement contributions and taxes that are due.

Read more tips for spotting employees who are not actually independent contractors...


Same-Sex Couples Eligible for Social Security

Social Security Administration

Due to the ruling of the Supreme Court that Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act is unconstitutional, the Social Security Administration has started to process some retirement spouse claims for same-sex couples. 

More information and answers to frequently asked questions are available on the Administration's website.


Tips for Employers Who Outsource Payroll Duties

IRS

If you use a third-party to process payroll or other tax duties, it is important to monitor the third-party to ensure that you are still fulfilling your legal responsibilities for payroll taxes. The IRS has some great tips for protecting yourself. Read more...