When Was Your Last HR Audit?

The only constant is change. That’s true in life, business, and Human Resources. So, how does the modern small business owner keep up with modern business? Ollie and Associates recommend starting with an HR audit.

An HR audit can save you thousands of dollars in the long run by preventing your business from violating employment law and racking up hefty fines.

When we perform an HR audit for your business, we look for any potential violations that can lead to fines or other trouble for your business down the line. We know what the various government agencies expect, and use our trained eye and years of experience to protect your Roanoke business.

HR Audit Components

When Ollie & Associates does an HR Audit, we’ll talk to you about what your business does and what your goals are.That helps us ensure everything you’re doing on paper matches what you’re doing in practice.

It also allows us to see if there are any ways you can better serve yourself and your employees.

Here’s what an HR audit looks like:

Handbooks

Like we’ve said, laws change. So a policy that used to be ok 2 years ago might land you in trouble today. Likewise, a handbook written 5 years ago may not address the employee needs of 2025.

We’ll audit your handbooks to ensure they are not only legally compliant but also suitable for the current stage of company and employee growth.

Employment Law

Ollie and Associates are experts at employment law, so you don’t have to be.

It’s easy to make mistakes with hiring and payment practices. Some employers will classify employees as 1099 contractors when they should be employees or exempt when they should be non-exempt.

Sometimes employers make honest mistakes or try to save money. Regardless, violations can result in hefty fines, and an HR audit helps you avoid them.

File Audits

Do you have everything on file that the law legally requires you to have?

Every employer in the US needs an I-9 for each employee to prove that the employee can legally work in the United States. Similarly, other professions have specific forms that an employer must have on file.

Do you have all the paperwork you need? Is it accessible and easy to find?

We’ll take a close look during your HR Audit.

What Government Agencies Care About Your HR, Taxes, and Paperwork

Several government agencies, both state and federal, have a vested interest in how you operate your business. And many of those agencies communicate with one another, so if you violate the law for one, they may also tip off another.

VEC

The Virginia Employment Commission ensures that all Virginia businesses are treating and paying their workers fairly. One of its major functions is overseeing unemployment, including ensuring that businesses properly pay into it.

US Department of Labor

Similarly to the VEC, the USDL monitors employee payment and leave for the entire country (among other duties). One common area where small businesses run afoul is the Family Medical Leave Act, which “entitles eligible employees of covered employers to take unpaid, job-protected leave for specified family and medical reasons with continuation of group health insurance coverage under the same terms and conditions as if the employee had not taken leave.”

EEOC

The US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission ensures a discrimination-free workplace. IT monitors hiring practices and how existing employees are treated.

IRS

Finally, we all know what the Internal Revenue Service does – it ensures companies and individuals are properly paying their taxes.

While it can be a burden to ensure your business is properly falling in line with the complex and ever-changing web of business regulations, these agencies work together to ensure the fair treatment of workers.

Luckily, you don’t have to navigate it on your own. Ollie and Associates is here to offer you affordable HR services, and one of the most cost-effective places to start is an HR audit!