Posts by Sara Curtis
Fair Credit Report Act (FCRA)
The FCRA is a federal law that regulates the collection, dissemination, and use of consumer credit information by credit reporting agencies. A form summarizing FCRA rights, as applicable.
Read MoreEquipment or Uniform Issuance Authorization
A form an employee signs to acknowledge receipt of specific items, like uniforms and equipment.
Read MoreEmployment of Minors Summary Chart
Outlines the legal restrictions and requirements for employing minors, including allowable work hours, permitted job types, and age-specific regulations.
Read MoreEmployment At-Will Acknowledgement Form
A form signed by the employee to acknowledge their at-will employment, which can be ended by either party at any time, with or without cause or advance notice.
Read MoreEmployee State Tax Withholding (DE 4)
A form that all employees must complete for the employer to withhold the correct California state income tax from an employee’s pay.
Read MoreCriminal History FAQs – (CRD) Spanish
Este documento explica las responsibilidades de los empleadores segun la Ley de Oportunidad Justa
Read MoreCriminal History FAQs – (CRD) English
This document explains employer responsibilities under the Fair Chance Act.
Read MoreCriminal History Disclosure Form
A sample form for an applicant to disclose criminal history. The form documents and certifies that the applicant’s disclosure was made after a conditional employment offer, as required by California law.
Read MoreCriminal Background Checks Fact Sheet
A fact sheet outlining restrictions on considering criminal history for employers with five or more employees, including required forms and sample notices from California’s Civil Rights Department.
Read MoreCA Child Labor Law Pamphlet
The California Department of Industrial Relation’s Child Labor Law Pamphlet, including a summary of rules for employing minors.
Read MoreImmigration Inspection Required Notice
This form must be posted for employees within 72 hours of receiving a Notice of Inspection of I-9 Forms by an immigration agency.
Read MoreImmigration Inspection Deficiency Notice – Spanish
Esta forma se utiliza para notificar a un empleado que las autoridades de inmigracion identificarion una deficienca en la documentaciion que autoriza su empleo.
Read MoreImmigration Inspection Deficiency Notice
A form to notify employees that immigration authorities have identified a deficiency in their employment authorization records.
Read MoreI-9/Employee Records Government Inspections – Fact Sheet
A fact sheet explaining California’s requirement to promptly notify employees (and their union, if applicable) of an I-9 audit and, in certain cases, share the inspection results.
Read MoreWarning – Written
A form to provide written notice of an employee’s misconduct or poor performance, document corrective action, and outline consequences of further issues.
Read MoreSeverance Agreement – Fact Sheet
A fact sheet outlining key information about severance agreements, including legal considerations, employee rights, reasons for severance, and common agreement information.
Read MoreSample Exit Interview Questions
A guide for sample exit interview questions to help employers gather feedback and identify opportunities for improvement.
Read MoreRating Scale Assessment – No Points
An evaluation template outlining how to consistently apply rating criteria to assess employee performance levels, ensuring fair and objective evaluations.
Read MoreEEO-ADA-FEHA Policy (Spanish)
Un ejemplo de politica que describe el compromiso de la empresa con la igualdad en las oprtunidades de empleo, la Ley de Estaudinidenses con Discapacidades y la Ley de Vivienda y Empleo Justo de California.
Read MoreWVPP Reminder: It’s Time for Training!
It is hard to believe that almost a year has passed since SB 553 went into effect on July 15, 2024 in California, requiring employers to develop and implement workplace violence prevention plans.
Read MorePreparing for Layoffs or RIF
A fact sheet providing instructions, best practices, and guidelines for employers implementing workforce reductions or temporary work suspensions.
Read MoreRating Scale Assessment
An evaluation template outlining how to consistently apply rating criteria to assess employee performance levels, ensuring fair and objective evaluations based on a point system.
Read MoreGoal Alignment – Performance Review (Customer Service)
A sample performance review form for a customer service position to assess employee performance, including a development plan for areas needing improvement.
Read MoreFinal Paycheck Worksheet – Nonexempt Employees
A worksheet to help calculate the final paycheck for a non-exempt employee, which must be retained with payroll records.
Read MoreFinal Paycheck Worksheet – Exempt Employees
A worksheet to calculate the final paycheck for an exempt employee, which must be retained with payroll records.
Read MoreFinal Pay Mail Check or Direct Deposit Form – Spanish
La ley de California exige el estricto cumplimmiento de las normas de pago del salario final. Los empleados deben completar un nuevo formulario de autorizacion si desean que su salario final se deposite directamenta. Este formulario puede utilizarse para cumplir con estos requisitos.
Read MoreFinal Pay Mail Check or Direct Deposit Form
California law requires strict compliance with final wage payment rules. Employees must complete a new authorization form if they want their final wages direct deposited. This form may be used to satisfy these requirements.
Read MoreEDD For Your Benefit Pamphlet (DE2320)
EDD packet on California’s unemployment insurance program. Employer must provide to any employee who is being laid off, terminated, or placed on a leave of absence, by their last day of employment.
Read MoreDisciplinary Notice
A customizable form to document and notify employees of disciplinary action, including the type of action (verbal, written, etc.) and the specific policy violation.
Read MoreCreating a Performance Review Process Checklist
A helpful checklist for supervisors to keep track of the performance review process, including who needs to be reviewed, how the review will take place, as well as frequency.
Read MoreCoaching Discussion
A form used to document coaching discussions in addition to any formal disciplinary action, ensuring all performance conversations are recorded in the employee’s personnel file.
Read MoreAttendance Policy Template
A downloadable and customizable sample attendance policy designed to help employers establish consistent guidelines for managing attendance issues. It provides multiple program options.
Read MoreRemote Work Fact Sheet
A fact sheet and checklist of items to consider in creating a remote work policy.
Read MoreRegular Rate of Pay Fact Sheet
A fact sheet explaining how to calculate the “regular rate” of pay for non-exempt employees, which is used to determine overtime, sick leave, meal and rest break premiums, and reporting time pay. It outlines the types of payments that must be included or excluded from the regular rate and provides sample calculations.
Read MorePiece Rate Pay Fact Sheet
A fact sheet explaining California’s wage requirements for piece-rate employees, covering pay for non-productive time, rest and recovery periods, overtime calculations, and industry-specific limitations.
Read MorePaydays, Overtime & Wage Statements Fact Sheet
A fact sheet describing California’s timing requirements for regular paydays and overtime, as well as detailed wage statements.
Read MoreMeal and Rest Period Acknowledgement
A form for employees to acknowledge their understanding of meal and rest break rights and the employer’s obligations under wage and hour laws.
Read MoreMeal Rest Periods Fact Sheet
A fact sheet outlining California’s meal and rest break requirements, including employee rights and employer responsibilities.
Read MoreMake-Up Time Request
Make-Up Time Request Please verify your membership credentials: Email Password Log In Members get instant, full access, PLUS: Unlimited HR phone and email support Members-only training and discounts …and more! Become a Member A form for non-exempt employees to request time off for personal obligations and make up the missed hours within the same workweek…
Read MoreCalculating Overtime Two Pay Rates Sample
A spreadsheet to help calculate overtime when an employee earns two different rates of pay for the same employer.
Read MoreBonuses Fact Sheet
A fact sheet outlining discretionary vs. non-discretionary bonuses including wage and hour and tax implications.
Read MoreAlternative Workweek: Request to Substitute Days
This form allows an employee working under an Alternative Workweek Schedule to request a one-time substitution of a scheduled workday without affecting overtime pay requirements.
Read MoreAlternative Workweek: Proposal to Adopt Schedule
This form allows employers to propose an Alternative Workweek Schedule to employees. It must be provided at least 14 days before the employee vote and after holding at least one meeting to discuss the proposal.
Read MoreUSERRA Fact Sheet
This USERRA fact sheet
explains the federal law protecting service members’ job rights after military leave, including eligibility, leave duration, benefits, and reemployment protections.
Leave of Absence Application
Form for employees to request a leave, including for pregnancy, medical, family, or personal reasons.
Read MoreCalifornia Leave Laws Guide
A guide outlining California leave laws, including which organizations must provide time off, employee eligibility requirements, and leave duration and protections.
Read MoreBone Marrow Organ Donation Leave Certification
This form is used for employees to request time off for bone marrow or organ donation, including questions for the employee and certification from their health care provider.
Read MoreBereavement Leave Request Form
This form allows employees to request bereavement leave, with questions to help employers determine eligibility.
Read MoreBereavement Leave Fact Sheet
A fact sheet outlining California’s bereavement leave requirements, including the rights and obligations of both employers and employees.
Read MoreReasonable Suspicion Checklist
A checklist for supervisors to document observable signs of an employee being under the influence of drugs or alcohol at work, ensuring decisions about testing are based on objective, consistent, and legally defensible observations.
Read MoreManagement Drug Testing Policy & Procedure
A sample policy outlining pre-employment and reasonable suspicion drug testing, including documentation guidance and steps for supervisors when an employee is suspected of being under the influence and sent for testing.
Read MoreEmployee Consent to Testing
A form to document reasonable suspicion that an employee is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. It includes a section for the employee to sign, accepting or declining drug/alcohol testing.
Read MorePolicy Against Discrimination, Harassment & Retaliation (Spanish)
Una política de muestra que describe el compromiso de la empresa con un lugar de trabajo respetuoso e inclusivo al prohibir la discriminación y el acoso ilegales, establecer procedimientos de denuncia y proteger a los empleados de represalias.
Read MorePolicy Against Discrimination, Harassment & Retaliation
A sample policy outlining the company’s commitment to a respectful and inclusive workplace by prohibiting unlawful discrimination and harassment, establishing reporting procedures, and protecting employees from retaliation.
Read MoreNotice of Investigation Closure – Witness
After an investigation, the employer can use this form to notify witnesses of the conclusion and reaffirm their protection from retaliation.
Read MoreEEO-ADA-FEHA Policy
A sample policy outlining the company’s commitment to equality in employment opportunities, the Americans with Disabilities Act and California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act.
Read MoreAssistive Animals – Sample Policy
A sample policy for employers outlining how requests for assistive animals as a disability accommodation will be handled under California law. It covers eligible animal types, certification requirements, and employee responsibilities, if approved.
Read MoreOvertime FAQs
Answers to commonly asked questions about California’s overtime requirements and calculations.
Read MoreItemized Pay Stub Sample
A sample itemized wage statement (pay stub) following California’s requirements.
Read MoreIndustrial Welfare Commission Wage Orders
A link to California’s Department of Industrial Relations website providing the current minimum wage order and all current industry wage orders for download.
Read MoreState Disability Insurance Pamphlet (DE 2515)
EDD brochure explaining State Disability Insurance (SDI), a tax-funded program providing partial wage replacement for non-work-related disabilities. Employers must provide it at the time of hire and when leave for a qualifying disability is needed.
Read MoreReproductive Loss Leave Rights – Fact Sheet (CRD) – Spanish
Hoja informativa del Departamento de Derechos Civiles de California que explica los derechos de licencia por perdida reproductiva, las obligaciones del empleador y las interacciones con otras licencias aplicables.
Read MoreReproductive Loss Leave Rights – Fact Sheet (CRD)
California Civil Rights Department fact sheet explaining reproductive loss leave rights, employer obligations, and interactions other applicable leaves.
Read MoreReasonable Accommodation Request/Non-FMLA Leave (CRD) – Spanish
Paquete del departamento de Derechos Civiles de California para ayudar a los empleadores a documentar el proceso interactivo y cumplir con los requisitos de adaptacion. Incluye un formulario de solicitud para empleados, la certificacion del proveedor de atencion medica y herramientas para dar seguimiento a las conversaciones, las adaptaciones propuestas y los resultados.
Read MorePaid Family Leave Brochure (DE 2511)
The EDD’s Paid Family Leave Brochure informs employees about wage replacement benefits for missing work due to a family member’s health condition, bonding with a new child, or qualifying military-related exigencies. Provide this form at time of hire and for leaves of absence, when applicable.
Read MoreTraining Sign-In Sheet (editable)
This downloadable training sign-in sheet is used to track attendance for California’s mandatory harassment prevention training requirements.
Read MoreExempt Analysis Worksheet – Computer Professional
This worksheet helps determine whether a computer professional position is exempt or non-exempt. Employers use it to describe the role’s intellectual or creative work and how the employee regularly exercises discretion and independent judgment.
Read MoreExempt Analysis Worksheet – Administrative
This worksheet helps determine whether an administrative position is exempt or non-exempt. Employers use it to describe the role’s duties and how the employee regularly exercises discretion and independent judgment.
Read MoreNotice of Rights – Crime Victims (Spanish)
Este cartel de la Oficina del Comisionado Laboral informa a los empleados sobre sus derechos como victimas de crimenes en California. Debe ser proporcionado al ser contratado y a solicitud del personal.
Read MoreNotice of Rights – Crime Victims
This poster from the Labor Commissioner’s Office informs employees of their rights and protections as crime victims in California. It must be provided at hire and upon request.
Read MoreEEOC Investigation Questions for Complainant
Sample interview questions for employers to use when interviewing the complainant in a workplace harassment investigation.
Read MoreCompliance Couch: Top 3 Tips for Creating a Positive Company Culture
Compliance Couch: Top 3 Tips for Creating a Positive Company Culture Posted by Jessica Rivera, MBA, PHR, SHRM-CP, Vice President of Human Resources on May 8, 2025 Tags: Compliance Welcome to Compliance Couch from the California Employers Association, where we make California HR simple! This month, we are joined by Jessica Rivera, Vice President of…
Read MoreImportant Pay Data Reporting Deadlines
California law requires private employers of 100 or more employees and/or 100 or more workers hired through labor contractors to annually report pay, demographic, and other workforce data to the Civil Rights Department.
Read MoreEEOC Investigation Questions for Accused
Sample interview questions for employers to use when interviewing the accused in a workplace harassment investigation.
Read MoreEEOC and DOJ Issue Guidance on DEI-Related Discrimination
On March 19, 2025, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) issued joint guidance on illegal and discriminatory diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) practices. The EEOC also issued frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding DEI-related discrimination. The guidance provides some clarity as to the agencies’ position on what may constitute illegal DEI and offers steps employees may take to report violations.
Read MoreDebate Heats Up on Fast Food Wage Increases
It’s been a year, and California fast food workers may soon see another gift coming their way, as the debate heats up on fast food wage increases. As a reminder, for the first time ever, a separate fast food minimum wage of $20/hour was established for fast food workers at chains with over 60 locations nationally as of April 1, 2024.
Read MoreUnderstanding the Pros and Cons of Split Shifts
Are you thinking of reducing labor costs by having hourly (non-exempt) employees clock out during non-peak hours? While a split-shift may be one way to cut expenses, other factors may not actually result in any savings.
Read MoreCalifornia Court Addresses Extended Leave Requests
A difficult issue, that employers often face, occurs when an employee has exhausted all protected leave time (such as CFRA/FMLA), and then requests an extension of unpaid leave as an ADA/FEHA reasonable accommodation.
Read MoreMay 2025
May 2025 Kim’s Message: Pardon Our Dust! WVPP Reminder: It’s Time for Training! California Leave Laws Pop Quiz CA Court on Extended Leave Requests The Pros & Cons of Split Shifts New Form I-9 and E-Verify Updates Guidance on DEI-Related Discrimination Variable Pay & Compensation Mark Your Calendar: May & June Events!
Read MoreKim’s Message: Pardon Our Dust…Exciting Changes Ahead!
As we step into May, we’re excited to share some updates that will enhance your membership experience and reinforce our commitment to supporting your HR needs.
Read MoreWhy Variable Pay is a Part of Competitive Compensation Programs
Despite the economic uncertainty in the U.S. right now, organizations are still pushing forward with including variable pay as part of their overall compensation strategy and compensation programs to retain top talent.
Read MoreIs Ignorance Really Bliss?
Ignorance is bliss. The popular proverb shares the notion that not knowing something is often more comfortable than knowing it. But when it comes to running a business, not knowing something doesn’t protect you from liability. Perhaps Knowledge is Power should be the saying business owners follow.
Read MoreNew Form I-9 and E-Verify Updates
On April 2, 2025 U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced some minor changes to Form I-9 and E-Verify. The previous update to the I-9 form was released in August 2023 and marked a drastic departure from previous versions.
Read MoreCompliance Couch: Top 3 Tips for Effective Hiring
Welcome to Compliance Couch from the California Employers Association, where we make California HR simple! In this episode, we are joined by Eli Nuñez, Human Resources Director, to learn the Top 3 Tips for Effective Hiring. Careful planning of your company’s recruiting and hiring strategy will help you stay compliant with state & federal laws, attract qualified candidates, and implement comprehensive onboarding systems. Employee retention starts with smart hiring!
Read MoreHot Training Topics for April & May
In addition to important compliance topics like Mandated Reporter, Wage & Hour and Employee Handbooks, and Leaves of Absences in California, there are a few recently added trainings addressing hot-button issues in the news.
Read MoreDon’t Skip Steps: PAGA “Reasonable Steps” That Is
Ensuring compliance with the California Labor Code must remain a top priority—particularly in light of the recent reforms to the Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA). These changes present a critical opportunity for employers to take proactive measures.
Read MoreUnderstanding Employee Expense Reimbursements
Do you have employees? If so, you likely need to provide expense reimbursements. Simply put, employers should never pass on their operating costs to employees. But what about less common expenses?
Read MoreDeadline for California 2024 Pay Data Reporting is May 14
California’s annual pay data reporting portal opened for employers to begin submitting their 2024 reports on February 3, 2025. California employers with 100 or more employees have until May 14, 2025 to complete their reporting requirements.
Read MoreTime to Spring Clean Your Employee Files? Read This First…
Before you shred anything or push the delete key, keep in mind that California employers are required to retain employee records for a specific period of time to ensure compliance with state and federal laws.
Read MoreStaying Cool Outdoors and Indoors: California’s Heat Illness Prevention Requirements
With Spring here, soon some parts of California will begin to see temperatures soar. California employers will need to turn their attention to a critical workplace safety concern—Heat Illness Prevention. Cal/OSHA’s requirements apply broadly to both outdoor and indoor places of employment.
Read MoreNon-Exempt Employee Scheduling: What California Employers Need to Know About Reporting Time Pay
Scheduling employees to ensure the right amount of coverage to meet business needs without overstaffing can be challenging. Despite careful planning, needs can change quickly, prompting employers to send non-exempt employees home early.
Read MoreThe Spring Training Schedule is in Full Bloom
In addition to important compliance topics there are two new 4-part series available in April. A new session of HR 101: HR Compliance Essentials Certification Series begins on April 3.
Read MoreEmployee Talent Wars: Staying Ahead of the Curve
As we transition into 2025 and gear up for new recruiting and hiring efforts, it’s the perfect time to reflect on key insights from last year. We are also giving you a sneak peek for expected trends to watch out for in 2025 to stay ahead of the curve!
Read More2025 Salary Increase Predictions
As we start 2025, employers are keeping a close eye on salary trends to determine what this year might bring in terms of pay increases. With high increases over the last few years, will this year remain elevated?
Read MoreSpring Training for Your Supervisors!
Spring training is in full swing, which for many baseball fans means that our favorite teams have gathered to practice for the start of the regular season. It’s also a great time to make sure your company is compliant with all required training for your employees.
Read MoreFive Pro Tips for Managing Family and Medical Leave Requests
CFRA and FMLA are both highly technical laws, that can make administering these common leaves seem like a full-time job. Here are five big picture tips to keep leave administration running smoothly.
Read MoreKim’s Message: CEA is on the Road
As we move toward spring and warmer weather, I’m excited to hit the road with our CEA team twice this month to present at two events!
Read MoreWhen ICE Shows Up at Your California Business
Recently signed executive orders are aimed at implementing an aggressive immigration enforcement agenda including mass deportations. Employers in California and other sanctuary states are likely to see an uptick in immigration enforcement.
Read MoreKim’s Message: How Will You Thrive in 2025?
For the first time in many years, I didn’t make any New Year’s Resolutions for the year ahead. Apparently I wasn’t alone, as I recently read that the majority of people who make resolutions fail to follow through on them because they often require us to change something we do naturally.
Read MoreMember Benefit Highlight + Upcoming Events
If you have read the other articles in this month’s newsletter or scanned through a recent blog article, you are probably familiar with out HR forms page. This important page of the CEA website includes hundreds of forms on topics
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