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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Doing Nothing in Response to a Report of Sexual Harassment Could Cost you Millions

Ignoring a sexual harassment complaint can expose employers to massive liability. Learn how even a single incident may create a hostile work environment and why delayed or inadequate responses increase damages. This guide explains employer duties, response best practices, and corrective actions beyond discipline to reduce risk, protect employees, and avoid costly lawsuits.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Owners vs. Lender's Title Insurance: What's the Difference?

Confused about owner’s vs. lender’s title insurance? Learn the key differences between protecting a homebuyer’s ownership rights and a lender’s financial interest. This guide explains why lenders require title insurance, what each policy covers, and how both work together to protect your real estate investment at closing and beyond.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

If You're Self-Employed, Look for This Special Mortgage

If you’re self-employed, a bank statement loan may be the mortgage solution you need. Designed for freelancers and gig workers without W-2s, these loans use 12–24 months of bank statements to verify income. Learn how they work, qualification requirements, credit score expectations, and why rates and down payments may be higher for non-salaried borrowers.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Employers Beware of an Extra Payday in 2026

Employers beware: 2026 brings an extra biweekly payday for businesses using a 26-pay schedule. Learn why some employers will face 27 pay periods, how this impacts salaried employees, and what payroll formulas can prevent overpayment. Discover compliance tips, communication requirements, and planning steps to avoid costly payroll errors in 2026.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Is the Trump Account a New Employee Benefit?

Could Trump Accounts become a new employee benefit? Starting July 1, 2026, employers may contribute up to $2,500 annually to government-backed, IRA-like accounts for employees’ children under a pilot program. Learn how Section 128 contributions work, eligibility rules, tax advantages, and what this benefit could mean for employers and working families.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Understanding the Threat: How Creditors can Access your Property

Worried about creditors accessing your property? Learn how New York residents can protect assets using homestead exemptions, LLCs, irrevocable trusts, insurance, and strategic titling. This guide explains what works, what doesn’t under New York law, and why timing matters. Discover practical, legal asset protection strategies—and why DIY approaches can backfire—before a claim or lawsuit arises.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

2026 Wage Updates for New York Employers

New York employers must prepare for 2026 wage updates effective January 1. Learn how minimum wage increases and higher overtime exemption salary thresholds impact NYC, Long Island, Westchester, and the rest of the state. Review key figures, compliance obligations, and practical steps employers should take now to update pay policies and avoid costly wage-and-hour violations.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Can Self-Employed Individuals Claim the Tips Deduction?

Can self-employed individuals claim the new tips deduction? Learn how the up to $25,000 no-tax-on-tips deduction works, income limits, what qualifies as a “voluntary tip,” and why only tips reported on Forms 1099-NEC, 1099-MISC, or 1099-K count. Explore eligible industries and what freelancers must know to maximize this tax benefit.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Small Business Year-End Legal Checklist: Filings, Renewals, and Compliance

Prepare your small business for a smooth new year with this Year-End Legal Checklist. Review essential tasks like business registrations, license renewals, tax and payroll compliance, contracts, and insurance. Learn the key questions every SMB should ask and actionable steps—like creating a compliance calendar—to stay organized, compliant, and ready for 2025.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Living Trust Versus Will

Confused about wills vs. trusts? This guide breaks down estate planning essentials, from probate basics to when a trust may be the better choice. Learn how to protect assets, plan for incapacity, reduce taxes, and ensure your property passes to the right people at the right time. A clear starting point for smarter estate planning.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

An Employer's Easy Guide to Reasonable Accommodation

Learn when employers must provide reasonable accommodations under the ADA, PWFA, PUMP Act, and Title VII. This easy guide explains employer obligations for disabilities, pregnancy, lactation, and religion, plus the steps to follow: create a policy, train staff, use the interactive process, and avoid undue hardship. Stay compliant and protect your workplace.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Security Wage Base for 2026

The Social Security wage base increases to $184,500 in 2026, up from $176,000 in 2025. Learn how this change affects payroll taxes for employees, employers, and self-employed individuals, what higher contributions mean for your budget, and how to plan ahead for rising FICA obligations in the upcoming tax year.

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