Business Xpress Startup Toolkit Step 6 - Employer Obligations

Summary

This video from Oregon's Secretary of State guides entrepreneurs through employer responsibilities when starting a business. It covers mandatory postings from BOLI, new hire reporting, I-9 form completion, and distinguishing between employees and independent contractors. The video also highlights anti-discrimination laws, particularly the ADA, and recommends the Employer's Guide for comprehensive hiring information.

Takeaways

• 📜 The video series is a guide for starting a business in Oregon, supplementing the Business Xpress Startup Toolkit.
• 👷‍♂️ If you don't plan to have employees, the responsibilities discussed in this video may not apply to you.
• 🏢 Employers in Oregon are responsible for maintaining a safe and positive work environment for their employees.
• 📊 The Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) mandates the posting of information on minimum wage, equal employment, workplace safety, and federal regulations.
• 🖨️ BOLI posters can be downloaded for free or purchased as an all-in-one composite poster.
• 👶 Reporting new hires to the Oregon Department of Justice Division of Child Support is mandatory for child support collection.
• 📝 Completing a federal I-9 form is required for each new employee to verify their legal right to work in the U.S.
• 🔍 Distinguishing between an employee and an independent contractor is crucial, with different federal and state laws applying to each.
• 📚 Oregon and federal websites provide information on the classification of independent contractors.
• 🚫 Businesses are prohibited from discriminating against employees, including those with disabilities, under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• 📘 The Employer's Guide is recommended for those planning to hire, covering topics from workers' compensation to federal taxes with a helpful checklist.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the Start a Business video series by the Oregon Secretary of State Corporation Division?

The video series is designed to guide individuals starting a business in Oregon through the steps involved and complements the Business Xpress Startup Toolkit found online.

Why is the Step 6 video particularly relevant for employers?

Step 6 focuses on the responsibilities of being an employer, which is important for those who will have employees, to ensure a safe and positive work environment.

Which organization requires employers to post specific workplace information?

The Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) mandates that employers post information regarding minimum wage, equal employment, workplace safety, and federal information.

Where can employers find and download the required workplace posters?

Employers can download and print the required posters free of charge from the BOLI website.

What is the purpose of reporting new hires to the Oregon Department of Justice Division of Child Support?

The new hire information is used to facilitate the collection of child support payments.

What form must be completed for each new employee to verify their legal right to work in the United States?

Employers must complete a federal I-9 form for each new employee.

What is the distinction between an employee and an independent contractor as it pertains to federal and state laws?

Federal and state laws treat employees and independent contractors differently, so it's crucial for employers to understand the distinctions under both sets of regulations.

Why is it important for businesses to understand the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)?

Businesses must be aware of the ADA to ensure they do not discriminate against prospective or current employees with disabilities.

What resource is recommended for businesses planning to hire employees in the near future?

The Employer's Guide is recommended, as it provides a comprehensive overview of hiring practices, including workers' compensation and federal taxes.

How can employers ensure they are fulfilling their responsibilities as outlined in the video?

By following the guidelines and recommendations provided in the video, such as posting required information, completing necessary forms, and understanding legal distinctions.

Where can viewers find more information on starting a business in Oregon?

Viewers can find more information by watching other videos in the Start a Business series and visiting the mentioned websites for additional resources.