26 APR 2024 · In this episode of Benefits in Brief, Jeff Turner sits down with Brandon Walcott, an esteemed expert in IT and Owner of Techtrix, a leader in safeguarding Cyber Security attacks and IT Services, to delve into the crucial realm of cybersecurity and IT protection. Brandon brings a wealth of experience and insider knowledge to the table as he shares invaluable tips, tricks, and strategies for safeguarding your online assets in an increasingly digital world. You can find out more about Brandon and his services at www.gotechtrix.com or connect with him on LinkedIn. Visit aleragroup.com to find your local office and more resources on protecting your assets and insurance needs. Local to Sacramento, Tahoe, or Reno? Email us at info@pwadmin.com or visit us at https://pwadmin.aleragroup.com to learn more about what we can do for you and your business. Follow us on social media! Facebook: facebook.com/pwa.insurance LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/pwa-insurance-services T witter: @pwa_aleragroup

26 JUN 2023 · Are you a business owner who is looking for ways to streamline your human resources functions? Have you heard of professional employer organizations (PEOs), but aren’t quite sure what they are or if they’re right for your company?During this event, you will have the opportunity to learn from Rodney Bolton, CEO of HR Bizz, in the field of PEOs and human resources, who will provide an overview of: - Services PEOs offer - Discover PEOs advantages and disadvantages - Define the different types of PEOs and non-PEO options - Discuss the factors you should consider if choosing a PEO or leaving a PEO Whether you’re a small business owner or the head of a larger organization, this event is the perfect opportunity to learn more about PEOs and how they can help your business thrive. Join us for an engaging and informative discussion on this important topic.

8 JUN 2023 · How do you plan for the unexpected?Schools are back in session, restrictions are in place, and job security is low, and parents are running out of options to keep their kids educated and stay productive at work. Employers of all sizes are struggling with how they can be flexible in providing and planning for those who are facing some of these difficulties.Key Takeaways: - How parents can prepare for school/work scheduling demands - What are the Employers’ obligations and what can they offer - Changes to benefit plans mid-year that parents can make without qualifying life events

8 JUN 2023 · Student loan repayment assistance is a benefit in high demand. About 45 million employees have student loan debts and collectively they owe more than $1.64 trillion. The burden of these debts causes many workers to look for employers who will help them pay off their loans. Many employers that are interested in helping employees with student loans have hesitated, mainly because of tax liabilities. However, due to the CARES Act and the 2021 stimulus package, employers can make up to $5,250 in tax-free payments to each employee with student loans. Employees greatly appreciate their employers’ loan payment assistance. Even a small donation can help them pay off their loan sooner.

8 JUN 2023 · The need for Mental Health services are on the rise after two years of COVID regulations, mandates, and isolation.As more employees are leaving their jobs in search of better opportunities, employers need to do all that they can to retain and attract new talent.On this month’s Benefits in Brief podcast, we have John Troutman from Mazzitti & Sullivan EAP (mseap) discussing with us why proving Mental Health services or Employee Assistance Programs is important, affordable, and essential to employee engagement and loyalty.

1 MAY 2023 · In this podcast episode, we explore the importance of cultivating a healthy workplace culture for employees and businesses alike. The episode begins by defining what a healthy culture is, and why it matters. We delve into the benefits of fostering a positive work environment, including increased employee engagement, productivity, and retention rates. Our guest expert, Erin Shelby, PHR of Shelby HR Solutions, shares her insights on creating and maintaining a healthy workplace culture, including tips on effective communication, conflict resolution, and employee recognition. She will also discuss the role of leadership in shaping culture and the importance of modeling the desired behaviors. The episode concludes by addressing the common challenges in creating a healthy workplace culture, such as resistance to change and cultural differences, and offers practical solutions for overcoming them. Overall, this episode provides valuable insights and actionable tips for businesses and leaders looking to create a positive and healthy workplace culture that benefits everyone involved.

11 APR 2023 · Accessing Long-Term Care is changing in California!Soon the State will require employers to provide Long-Term Care coverage either through their providers or the State. We will be joined by Bob Bentley and Blake Tippett, Alera Group’s experts in Wealth Management and Compliance, who will dive deeper into Long-Term Care and what employers can do to stay in compliance with the state and save their bottom line. Learn more about what https://pwadmin.aleragroup.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/141/2023/04/StateLTCPrograms.pdf

21 DEC 2022 · This month we are joined with another local Alera Group agency leader- Dave Fear Sr., partner and consultant in the firm of Shepler & Fear, a division of Dickerson Insurance Services in Roseville, CA! If you missed our Self-Funding Panel at our Benefits Conference in May- you don’t want to miss this episode.Dave is the ultimate expert on self-funding programs- he’ll share with us: - The misconceptions of a self-funding program - Smaller premiums is not the ONLY benefit - How self-funding can help your long-term strategies and overall success

21 DEC 2022 · The price of gas is not the only one on the raise lately! The cost of specialty drugs have reached an all time high- but now is your chance to fight back with the help of PBM.Close the gap between employers and pharmacies by changing the cycle. Gain trust and feel empowered to question your doctor by verifying cost and look for alternatives.We are joined by Chasity Matthews of http://truescripts.com/ this month discussing the pros and cons of specialty costs and what to look for when searching for a Pharmacy Benefit Management (PBM) provider. In 45 minutes, attendees will leave with more information on: - The Transparency Rule and why it benefits you - Available Rebates + Clawbacks - Advice for those who are looking for a PBM or manages pharmacy benefits - Why TrueScripts is different from other PBMs

10 DEC 2022 · California Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed a new pay transparency act that will require significant changes in how employers draft job postings and how they report pay data to the state. Given the scope of the changes, many employers should begin preparing now. These are a few of the most significant provisions of the law, which could become a model for other states seeking to enhance pay transparency. We are pleased to be joined again this month with Larry Kazanjian, Partner of Palmer Kazanjian Wohl Hodson, LLP who will dive deeper into the requirements and limitations of the enhanced Transparency Rule of the California Law. Why this law was amended? and who is it for? What are the Reporting requirements and cost for employers? Job posting requirements and limitations