As a benefits broker, you’re charged with the undeniably complex task of guiding your HR clients through the ever-changing world of employee benefits. Of particular concern for your clients within that realm is effectively managing the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) for their organization.
FMLA is a federal law that allows eligible employees to take unpaid, job-protected leave for specific family and medical reasons, and while this is an incredibly valuable protection for employees, it can be challenging for employers to administer it effectively.
That’s where you come in – helping your clients choose the perfect FMLA administrator is a crucial step in ensuring compliance and employee satisfaction. So let’s explore the essential factors to consider when selecting an FMLA administrator.
Why Being Experts in FMLA Regulations Matters to HR
The FMLA is a complex law with numerous rules and regulations that your clients must adhere to and which can be challenging to navigate. Therefore, the first criterion when choosing an FMLA administrator is expertise in said FMLA regulations.
Partner your clients up with FMLA experts with a deep understanding of the law’s requirements, including eligibility criteria, leave duration, and the various qualifying reasons for FMLA leave. Their knowledge will ensure that your clients remain compliant and avoid costly penalties.
The Magic of A Streamlined FMLA Administration Process
The administration process surrounding FMLA is a massive burden for HR and People teams, so when it comes to managing FMLA leave effectively, efficiency is key. A competent FMLA administrator should offer a streamlined process for employees to request and employers to approve or deny leave. This should include user-friendly online portals, clear communication channels, and timely responses to employee requests. An efficient process will reduce administrative burdens and make it easier for your clients to manage FMLA leave effectively.
Comprehensive Leave Management Software
An FMLA administration solution that’s equipped with robust leave management capabilities can simplify the entire process for your clients. Look for a platform that can manage not only FMLA, but all types of leave, such as parental, disability, or any company-specific benefits that your clients may provide their employees. Integration of these leave types into a single system can enhance efficiency and reduce errors in leave tracking and coordination.
Employee FMLA Education and Support
Paperwork is only one portion of FMLA administration, it also involves educating employees about their rights and responsibilities. Choose an FMLA solution for your clients that offers comprehensive employee education and support services. This includes providing clear guidelines on how to request leave, explaining eligibility requirements, and assisting employees with the paperwork. Educated employees are more likely to follow the proper procedures, reducing confusion and disputes.
FMLA Compliance Tracking and Reporting
The best FMLA management solution is one that makes tracking and reporting safe, secure, and simple for HR and People Ops pros, because common pitfalls like failing to properly document FMLA usage or store employee records could mean legal consequences. The ideal FMLA administrator should have robust compliance tracking and reporting capabilities for this very reason, and should have the capability to generate reports to help your clients stay in compliance and make informed decisions regarding employee leave.
Don’t Overlook FMLA Customer Support
First and foremost, an employee going on FMLA-protected leave is a human experience, both for the employee taking the leave, and your client trying to support them. The right FMLA partner for your client will have exceptional customer support for both. Your clients and their employee population should have access to knowledgeable support representatives who can assist with any questions or issues that may arise during the leave administration process. A responsive support team can help mitigate potential problems and improve overall client satisfaction.
Selecting the Right FMLA Management Solution
Selecting the perfect FMLA administrator is a critical decision for benefits brokers. Your clients rely on your expertise to guide them in choosing an administrator who will not only ensure compliance with FMLA regulations but also streamline the leave management process, enhance employee education, and provide exceptional support.
At Tilt, we have in-house FMLA experts, 1-1 dedicated human support (translation: no call centers) for both your clients and every single employee they may have needing to take a leave of absence. Tilt manages all leave types across all states, and provides a secure platform (explore it for yourself) for real-time hour tracking and documentation management.
Tilt automates the FMLA eligibility process and informs employees of their rights and responsibilities so your clients no longer have to worry about whether they’re acting in accordance with FMLA regulations. Tilt even goes a step further by educating the managers of any employee going out on leave.
Remember, a well-chosen FMLA administrator can lead to smoother operations, happier employees, and ultimately, a more satisfied client. By considering the factors above, you can guide your clients on the path to successful FMLA administration with Tilt.
About Tilt
Tilt is leading the charge in all things leave of absence management through easy-to-use tech and human touch. Since 2017, our proprietary platform and Empathy Warriors have been helping customers make leave not suck by eliminating administrative burdens, keeping companies compliant, and providing a truly positive and supportive leave of absence experience for their people.
