We’ve known for a year now that there are going to be changes to the employee deductions that businesses will have to implement in 2023.
The two big programs are the Family & Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) program and the Colorado Secure Savings program.
In 2021, voters approved the FAMLI program to create a fund from which, starting in 2024, employees throughout Colorado can draw from when taking FAMLI leave for situations such as a new baby or a serious health condition. The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) will be administering this program. The collection starts January 2023. Are you ready? In a nutshell, the deduction will be split between the employer and the employee.
Businesses with nine or fewer employees do not have to contribute; however, they do need to remit their employee’s share of 0.45% of the premium each quarter. Typically, payment will be done through a payroll deduction which most businesses have through their payroll calculation program.
Make sure you or your accountant or bookkeeper has uploaded the latest version of your payroll program. All employers, regardless of size, MUST still register with the FAMLI Division before your first premium payment for the 1st quarter of 2023. The CDLE has a great toolkit for employers on their website, https://famli.colorado.gov/employers.
The Colorado Secure Savings Program is another new program that does NOT require employers to deduct from payroll UNLESS the employee wishes to participate. However, again, the employer MUST register with the state. This program is regulated by the Colorado Dept. of the Treasury. This program encourages employees to easily create a savings account for their future through a payroll deduction plan. This program also has criteria that the employer must adhere to even if their employees do not participate in the program.
Employers who have 5 or more employees, have been in business more than 2 years and do not offer a retirement savings program need to offer this program to their employees. If you already offer a retirement savings program, you simply need to certify your exemption using your access code when the program fully launches. The program is completely voluntary for employees. They can choose to enroll and cancel later, choose not to participate or find out more about the program and the investment.
This program is also available to self-employed or gig workers through the same reporting program. Many people do not plan for the future, and this new state option is an easy, convenient and flexible way for employees to save for their future. While the Chamber has been offering webinars and information about the upcoming plan, interest has been minimal.
Are you ready to speak to your employees about these new programs? The Department of the Treasury also has great information about the program. Go to https://coloradosecuresavings.com/ to find out more about the program.
The Chamber’s website, www.pagosachamber.com has more information and quick links to the various programs on our website. We want to make sure that our business community is informed and can speak intelligently about these new programs that are starting in January 2023.
Each of these program sites has FAQ information pages and many other resources. Contact the Chamber if you have additional questions.