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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

New York Employers Beware: Credit Checks are Being Banned Statewide

Beginning April 18, 2026, New York State will ban most employment-related credit checks, expanding New York City’s longstanding law statewide. Employers must avoid requesting or using consumer credit history, including third-party vendor reports, or risk civil liability, damages, and penalties. Review hiring policies, job postings, and interview practices now to ensure compliance.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

IRS Releases 2026 Retirement Contribution Limits: What to Know

The IRS has announced updated retirement contribution limits for 2026. Learn about higher IRA and Roth IRA limits, expanded income phase-out ranges, increased 401(k), 403(b), 457 plan caps, and new SIMPLE account thresholds. Review these changes to maximize tax-advantaged savings and adjust your retirement planning strategy for the year ahead.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Preparing for the New Year: A Guide for New York Employers as we Enter 2026

Prepare your New York business for 2026 with this employer compliance guide. Learn about minimum wage and salary threshold increases, new leave requirements, discrimination rules, Secure Choice savings, training reimbursement bans, and enforcement changes. We also review key 2025 laws now in effect and emerging proposals on non-competes, pay equity reporting, and future wage hikes.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Becoming a Parent in New York: The Current State of Parental Leave

Becoming a parent in New York means navigating multiple parental leave laws, including FMLA, Paid Family Leave, Paid Sick Leave, and Paid Prenatal Leave. This guide breaks down eligibility, employer coverage, paid versus unpaid leave, job protection, and benefits—helping New York employees and employers understand their rights and obligations when welcoming a new child.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Probate

Learn what probate is in New York, when it’s required, and how Surrogate’s Court works. This guide explains probate vs. administration, which estates can avoid probate, key steps in the process, executor duties, and common mistakes that cause delays - offering clear, compassionate guidance for families navigating probate in NYC neighborhoods like Flushing and Sheepshead Bay.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

5 Self-Employment Tax Mistakes You Want to Avoid

Learn the top self-employment tax mistakes that can cost business owners money, penalties, and retirement benefits. This guide explains SE tax basics, the 15.3% rate, common missteps with gig income, LLCs, retirement plans, optional methods, and estimated taxes - plus practical tips to stay compliant and avoid costly surprises before filing or paying quarterly taxes as required.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Reviewing Estate Planning Basics

Review estate planning basics this fall to ensure your will, trusts, beneficiaries, and powers of attorney reflect major life changes. Learn when to update your estate plan, how to protect digital assets, and which tools—like trusts, gifting strategies, and regular legal reviews—can strengthen your plan and protect your family’s future.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

What Employers Need to Know about New York State's Trapped at Work Act

New York State’s Trapped at Work Act limits when employers can require workers to repay advances, stipends, or reimbursements. Learn which employers are covered, what repayment agreements are prohibited, key exceptions, potential fines, and practical steps New York employers should take now to review policies and stay compliant.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Applying for Medicaid

Applying for Medicaid requires meticulous financial documentation. Learn why creating a strong paper trail—including five years of bank statements, property records, tax returns, and gift history—is critical to approval. This guide explains what documents caseworkers request, how to prepare in advance, and how proper recordkeeping can prevent delays, denials, and costly complications during the Medicaid application process.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

What to do about Employees with Disabilities

Learn what employers must do to support employees with disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This guide covers inclusive workplace policies, reasonable accommodations, low-cost solutions, documentation best practices, insurance considerations, and available tax credits and deductions to stay compliant, reduce risk, and create a more accessible, equitable workplace.

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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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