When you have business insurance policies you will often hear talk of your insurance binder and your certificate of insurance, but do you know the difference?

A binder is a contract of insurance. It’s called a binder because it “binds” your coverage creates an insurance contract and is used temporarily until the policy is issued.

A certificate of insurance is a form of proof of insurance warranting that you have coverage for a specific period.

Binders

An insurance binder is a brief document that serves as a temporary insurance policy. It remains in effect for a short time, typically 30 to 90 days. A binder dissolves once the policy is issued.

Binders will often be required by lenders when a business takes out a loan. For example, if you are buying a new building and taking out a loan, the lender will often require you to insure the building against physical damage under a commercial property policy and will want to see the binder as proof of that coverage.

A binder may be issued by an insurance company or by an insurance agent on the insurer’s behalf. An agent can issue a binder only if they have been afforded binding authority (the authority to initiate coverage) by the insurer.

Insurance brokers don’t have binding authority because they don’t serve as representatives of insurers. A broker may issue a binder, but the document will not be valid until it is signed by an underwriter or other authorized representative of the insurer.

A binder provides general information about your company, your insurer, and your agent. This includes:

• Your agent’s name, address, and contact information
• Your company’s name and address
• Name of your insurer
• Binder number
• Binder effective dates
• Policy number
• Description of your operations, vehicles, or property to be covered.

A binder is typically divided into sections, each applicable to a specific type of coverage, such as general liability or workers’ compensation. For each coverage you have purchased, the binder should list the limits provided, the coverage forms that will be included, and key endorsements that will be attached to your policy.

Certificate of Insurance

A certificate of insurance is a single-page document that lists active, in-force insurance policies for a business.

Certificates of insurance are often requested when one business engages the services of another and wants proof that the other business has secured the necessary coverage. 

A standard certificate will list all of your coverages, the name of the insurance company, and the policy’s effective date and expiration.

A certificate of insurance contains separate sections for different types of liability coverage listed, such as general, auto, umbrella, and workers’ compensation. “Insured” refers to the policyholder, namely the person or company who appears on the certificate as being covered by the insurance.

In addition to coverage levels, the certificate includes:

• The policyholder’s name.
• The policyholder’s mailing address.
• A description of what is insured.
• The name and address of the insurance company, as well as contact information for the insurance agent or broker or their contact person.

Having a certificate of insurance shows potential clients or business partners that your organization is insured. That means that in the event of an unforeseen scenario like an injury or property damage, there is minimal risk of out-of-pocket payouts or unpleasant and expensive litigation, for you or your customer.

BGES Group, located in Larchmont, N.Y. are New York Construction Insurance Specialists that represent 50+ companies and all the BEST general & umbrella liability programs!  We offer every coverage you need including property, builders risk, inland marine, general liability, umbrella liability, auto, bid & performance bonds, workers’ compensation, N.Y.S. disability and group health.  We are extremely responsive, responsible, trustworthy, fast, minimize your insurance headaches, we don’t charge ridiculous policy or service fees and when you call, text or email, whatever time of day, even weekends, we are there to help YOU! 

BGES Group are Workers’ Compensation Insurance Specialists for Tri-State Business Owners: Unhappy with your rates, company, being cancelled, losses causing difficulty getting coverage, in the middle of an audit dispute, payrolls misclassified, whatever your issue, we can help!  We have special programs for: Auto Service, Contractors (especially New York), Limousine Services, Logistic Companies, Manufacturers, Recyclers, Truckers, we can help ANY tri-state business owner.  We are considered “Preferred Agents” for this one program that if we can get you into their pricing is excellent, offers long-term coverage stability and can cover multi-state operations. Program takes the hassle out of doing annual audits too.

If you would like to speak with us call Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853 or click here to email or click here to visit our website.

Company: BGES Group, 216A Larchmont Acres West, Larchmont, NY 10538

e-mail: bgesgroup@gmail.com

website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

© – Copyright – 2024 – BGES Group

Forklift trucks can be dangerous if they are not operated with care, and it is essential that employees who drive them adhere to safe standards of operation.

According to the National Safety Council, forklifts were the source of 73 work-related deaths in 2022 in the U.S. and 24,960 worker days away from work.

To help you keep your forklift operators sharp, you may want to include this list of the top eight forklift accidents and how to avoid them.

Not knowing the forklift’s load capacity — Carrying a load that is too heavy is a sure-fire way of making the vehicle unstable. Operators should be aware of their forklift’s capacity before they begin to operate it by looking at the data plate found on the truck.

The plate should contain all of the relevant information and should not be tampered with in any way.

Not being aware of your route — Prior to an operator moving through a workplace that has a complex layout or a particularly dynamic environment, they should familiarize themselves with the route and any obstacles they may encounter.

In particular, they should look for any narrow passages or areas where there may be movement that could hinder their progress.

Operating with an unsecured load — Some loads are unstable. For example, a pallet is flat and quite easy to secure, whereas something with an odd or unsymmetrical shape can be more of a challenge. Operators should take extra care when moving objects that could be prone to toppling or affecting maneuverability. 

Not communicating with other workers — Warehouses can be very busy environments, and with so many people trying to accomplish their own tasks, it is important to maintain a high level of communication.

Operators should alert their co-workers in advance about what they are doing and where they plan to go.

Slipping on entry or exit from the forklift —Slips and trips are the most common cause of workplace injuries, and they can happen when entering or exiting a forklift.

Drivers should wear suitable footwear that is not slick with any substances before using the machinery.

Speeding — Speed kills, including with forklifts. And since they are heavier than the average car, they can cause plenty of damage. Moving at a speed that is improper for the forklift or environment is a common cause of accidents in the workplace.

Your drivers should be instructed to limit their speed. Consider installing a device that restricts the forklift’s speed.

Parking incorrectly — Operators should park their vehicles in authorized areas only, where other employees will expect to find stationary forklifts. Remind drivers to lower the fork to the floor, set the direction controls to neutral, lower the parking brake and turn the ignition off. 

Misuse of vehicles — Warn employees to resist any temptation to use forklift trucks for anything other than their specified purpose, no matter what the situation dictates.

BGES Group, located in Larchmont, N.Y. are New York Construction Insurance Specialists that represent 50+ companies and all the BEST general & umbrella liability programs!  We offer every coverage you need including property, builders risk, inland marine, general liability, umbrella liability, auto, bid & performance bonds, workers’ compensation, N.Y.S. disability and group health.  We are extremely responsive, responsible, trustworthy, fast, minimize your insurance headaches, we don’t charge ridiculous policy or service fees and when you call, text or email, whatever time of day, even weekends, we are there to help YOU! 

BGES Group are Workers’ Compensation Insurance Specialists for Tri-State Business Owners: Unhappy with your rates, company, being cancelled, losses causing difficulty getting coverage, in the middle of an audit dispute, payrolls misclassified, whatever your issue, we can help!  We have special programs for: Auto Service, Contractors (especially New York), Limousine Services, Logistic Companies, Manufacturers, Recyclers, Truckers, we can help ANY tri-state business owner.  We are considered “Preferred Agents” for this one program that if we can get you into their pricing is excellent, offers long-term coverage stability and can cover multi-state operations. Program takes the hassle out of doing annual audits too.

If you would like to speak with us call Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853 or click here to email or click here to visit our website.

Company: BGES Group, 216A Larchmont Acres West, Larchmont, NY 10538

e-mail: bgesgroup@gmail.com

website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

© – Copyright – 2024 – BGES Group

Running a business comes with its fair share of challenges, but for many New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut business owners, obtaining workers’ compensation coverage can feel like navigating a maze without a map. The complexities of insurance policies, coupled with the specific needs of different industries, often leave entrepreneurs feeling overwhelmed and underserved. However, there’s a beacon of hope amidst the confusion: BGES Group, one of Tri-State’s leading workers’ compensation specialists.

With a commitment to obtaining new coverage for business owners with the least amount of hassle, BGES Group stands out as a trusted partner for businesses of all sizes. Here’s why Tri-State business owners are turning to BGES Group for their workers’ compensation needs:

1.   Industries We Specialize At:

A. Auto Service

B. Contractors especially in New York

C. Limousine Services

D. Manufacturers

E. Moving & Storage Agent

F. Truckers

G. We can help any business owner                                                                                                     

2.   Multiple Options: BGES Group offers access to up to 20 workers’ compensation programs, ensuring that business owners have ample choices to find the policy that best suits their needs. Whether you’re a small startup or a large corporation, BGES Group can navigate the market to secure competitive quotes tailored to your business.                           

3.    Flexible Payment Structures: Say goodbye to hefty upfront deposits. One of BGES Group’s insurance company payment programs requires just a $200 deposit to get started, with monthly payments made on a pay-as-you-go basis. Another requires a first-year deposit then no renewal deposits. Another splits payments into 12 equal monthly installments. Our companies offer payment flexibility which allows businesses to manage their cash flow more effectively and obtain coverage with the least amount of obstacles.                                                                                                                   

4.    Integrated Payroll and Workers’ Compensation: Simplify your administrative tasks by combining payroll and workers’ compensation through one of BGES Group’s represented payroll/workers’ compensation programs. With competitive rates and seamless integration, these solutions streamline processes and reduce the burden on business owners.                                                                                                                                 

5.    Specialized Coverage for High-Risk Industries: From roofers to interior demolition to asbestos abatement contractors, BGES Group understands the unique risks faced by high-risk businesses. Their specialized programs provide comprehensive coverage tailored to the specific needs of each business owner, ensuring peace of mind for both employers and employees.                                                                                                          

6.    Comprehensive Insurance Packages: Unhappy with your Group Health insurance?  BGES Group offers programs that combine payroll, workers’ compensation, and group health insurance. This comprehensive approach not only simplifies administration but also ensures that businesses have all their insurance needs covered under one roof.                                                                                                                        

7.    Tailored Solutions for Retail and Service Industries: Retail stores, beauticians, dry cleaners—whatever your business may be, BGES Group can get you coverage. Their extensive network of insurance providers allows them to secure coverage for just about any business owner.                                                                                                      

8.    Assistance for Businesses with Claims History: Is poor claim experience causing you trouble getting new coverage?  BGES Group can help business owners with claims get new coverage. We have helped accounts with claims over one million get a new policy.                                                                                                                                                         

9.    Simplified Audits: Tired of dealing with insurance companies whose audit process is brutal?   BGES Group has programs that simplify the process, making it MUCH easier for businesses to complete their audit and avoid unnecessary headaches.                                                                                   

10. Superior Service and Support: When you work with BGES Group, you’re not just getting an insurance policy—you’re gaining a trusted partner committed to HELPING YOU and making life easier. We are known for our responsive service, quick certificate issuance, and transparent fee structures, ensuring that you always have the support you need when you need it most.                                                                                                                                    

11. Your Partner in Success: Whatever challenges you may be facing, BGES Group is here to help. With their expertise and dedication to simplifying the insurance process, they take the hassle out of finding coverage, allowing you to focus on what matters most: growing your business.                                                                                                          

If you would like to speak with us call Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853 or click here to email or click here to visit our website.

BGES Group, located in Larchmont, N.Y. are New York Construction Insurance Specialists that represent 50+ companies and all the BEST general & umbrella liability programs! 

We offer every coverage you need including property, builders risk, inland marine, general liability, umbrella liability, auto, bid & performance bonds, workers’ compensation, N.Y.S. disability, and group health. We are extremely responsive, responsible, trustworthy, and fast, minimize your insurance headaches, we don’t charge ridiculous policy or service fees and when you call, text, or email, whatever time of day, even weekends, we are there to help YOU!  

BGES Group are Workers’ Compensation Insurance Specialists for Tri-State Business Owners: Unhappy with your rates, company, being canceled, losses causing difficulty getting coverage, in the middle of an audit dispute, payrolls misclassified, or whatever your issue, we can help! We have special programs for Auto Services, Contractors (especially in New York), Limousine Services, Logistic Companies, Manufacturers, Recyclers, and Truckers, we can help ANY tri-state business owner. We are considered “Preferred Agents” for this one program that if we can get you into their pricing is excellent, offers long-term coverage stability, and can cover multi-state operations. The program takes the hassle out of doing annual audits too.

If you would like to speak with us call Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853 or click here to email or click here to visit our website.

Company: BGES Group, 216A Larchmont Acres West, Larchmont, NY 10538

e-mail: bgesgroup@gmail.com

website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

© – Copyright – 2024 – BGES Group

Has your insurance agency become so big that you no longer like the service you’re receiving?  CONTRACTOR ALERT!  Thousands of N.Y. contractors are being serviced by large, factory-like offices that cannot keep up with their workflow. Inexperienced personnel are servicing accounts.  Clients are constantly being shuffled among customer service representatives.  Renewal policies are not being properly checked. Accounts are not being remarketed as they should.  Large policy and service fees are being added.  No one answers their phone. 

What can you do?

1. Work with BGES Group who are  “New York Construction Specialists.”                           
2. If you are, STOP working with your large, factory-like office.  BGES Group offers “Mom and Pop” service.  Call, we answer, no waiting.  Email, we email you back.  Text, we text you right back. Need a certificate, we do it in minutes.  Have a problem just call between 5:30 am to 10 pm and we answer.  We are always helpful, there when you need us, easy to deal with, nice, trustworthy and make life easier not harder.  Every so often you find a “Diamond in the Rough” who is so out of the ordinary and just great to work with.   That’s us!                                                                                                          
3. Industry Secret:  There are a lot of inexperienced people working for insurance agencies. They have so much work they don’t have time to think.  They make lots of mistakes. Your account is not being properly serviced and we mean in a comprehensive type way.                                                                                                                                       BGES Group offers the opposite experience.  You deal with one person who has 43 years of experience, who constantly is in contact with you, and who knows what they are doing.

4. Would you like your account re-marketed as needed?  Would you like to work with an agency that is constantly trying to save you money and better your coverage?  Would you like to eliminate $1,000 to $5,000+ policy fees?  Would you like to work with an agency that operates like a “Mom and Pop” office and services your account the old-fashioned way, where you are just not a dollar bill but a person who becomes like family and who you can trust?  BGES Group is then who you should be working with.

5. How often does your agency make coverage recommendations?  Do they help you set up a procedure for screening subcontractor’s insurance?  Do they help with reviewing contract insurance provisions?  How about putting together a written safety manual? When you have questions do you feel your account executive knows what they are talking about?  At BGES Group you work with one person who has 43+ years experience and is not just book but street smart too.

In ending several well-known insurance companies are non-renewing all their New York Workers’ Compensation policies.  If you’ve received notice that your policy is being canceled, contact us and we will help you find new coverage.  We are great at solving issues like poor loss experience, high experience modifications and contractors that are sick of their company’s audits and want better.  We can help!

If you would like to speak with us call Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853 or click here to email or click here to visit our website.

BGES Group, located in Larchmont, N.Y. are New York Construction Insurance Specialists that represent 50+ companies and all the BEST general & umbrella liability programs!  We offer property, builders risk, inland marine, contractor general liability, umbrella liability, auto, bid & performance bonds, workers’ compensation, N.Y.S. disability, and group health.  We are extremely responsive, responsible, trustworthy, and fast, minimize your insurance headaches, we don’t charge ridiculous policy or service fees and when you call, text, or email, whatever time of day, even weekends, we are there to help! 

BGES Group are Workers’ Compensation Insurance Specialists for Tri-State Business Owners: Unhappy with your rates, company, being canceled, losses causing difficulty getting coverage, in the middle of an audit dispute, payrolls misclassified, or whatever your issue, we can help!  We have special programs for Auto Services, Contractors (especially in New York), Limousine Services, logistics companies, Manufacturers, Recyclers, and Truckers, we can help ANY tri-state business owner.  We are considered “Preferred Agents” for this one program if we can get you into their pricing is excellent, offers long-term coverage stability, and can cover multi-state operations. The program takes the hassle out of doing annual audits too.

If you would like to speak with us call Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853 or click here to email or click here to visit our website.

Company: BGES Group, 216A Larchmont Acres West, Larchmont, NY 10538

e-mail: bgesgroup@gmail.com

website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

© – Copyright – 2024 – BGES Group

Here’s How We Can Help You

BGES Group is one of Tri-State’s Workers’ Compensation specialists. We are VERY easy to deal with because:

• You will be dealing with the same person every time you call who will make your life easier and who knows what they are talking about
• We represent 50+ insurance companies and special programs for the industries listed below, especially New York Contractors
• Whatever issue’s you face, i.e. poor loss experience, lapse in coverage, we can help
• We answer the phone in seconds when you call
• We respond to emails in minutes
• We respond to texts immediately
• We are available to speak in the day or evening
• We get the job done when others can’t

We have programs for:
Auto Services
Contractors especially in New York – We have programs that will ensure asbestos, demolition, and roofers
Limousine Services
Manufacturers
Moving & Storage Agents
Truckers

Problems We Can Help You Solve
* Getting lower rates
* Poor loss experience causing difficulty getting new coverage
* Being canceled or non-renewed
* Sick of having to do invasive annual audits
* Payrolls misclassified
* Operating out of state and your company can’t cover you
* Having to come up with a 10% to 25% renewal deposit – We have a plan that requires just $200 to bind coverage then you pay as you go
* Takes too long to get certificates of insurance
* Sick of paying extra policy fees or service fees
* Poor agency service
* Whatever your problem we can help

Types of Plans Available
* Stand a Lone Workers’ Compensation Policy
* Combined Payroll and Workers’ Compensation Plan
* Professional Employer Organization (PEO) – These can combine Workers’ Compensation, Payroll and Group Health
* State and Assigned Risk Plans – Avoid a lot of the headaches working with government plans. Let BGES Group do the servicing

Here’s What People Think About Us:

Sarah S.

Gary is a considerate and honest guy. I have nothing but respect for him and 5 stars isn’t enough.

Nick S.

Over 20 years of excellent relationship that has met all our insurance needs.

Steve S.

My previous Workers Comp insurer was always trying to reclassify employees to put them in higher risk groups to raise the premium (despite no claims in over 5 years). Broker at the time wasn’t helping. Gary was recommended by a friend and did a phenomenal job. Found a new insurer for less money who then, a year later, further reduced premium after the audit! I’m now paying 40% less than I used to and only 1/4 of what my old insurer wanted to jack the rate to.

SANJA C.

Gary is a great, responsible, professional…someone you can rely on. I would highly recommend him.

George K.

Since I transferred my insurance policy to BGES Group I have saved a lot on the rates and the service is first class. Always get immediate responses to all my needs. It’s an A Plus from me.

Elena E.

My broker, Gary Wallach, is the BEST! He’s professional and a pleasure to deal with. Always has the answers for me and is quick to respond to my emails and phone calls. This is one reason I remain a loyal BGES Group customer. Good Rates on all my insurance needs too!

If you would like to speak with us call Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853 or click here to email or click here to visit our website.

BGES Group, located in Larchmont, N.Y. are New York Construction Insurance Specialists that represent 50+ companies and all the BEST general & umbrella liability programs! We offer every coverage you need including property, builders risk, inland marine, general liability, umbrella liability, auto, bid & performance bonds, workers’ compensation, N.Y.S. disability, and group health. We are extremely responsive, responsible, trustworthy, and fast, minimize your insurance headaches, we don’t charge ridiculous policy or service fees and when you call, text, or email, whatever time of day, even weekends, we are THERE to help YOU!

BGES Group are Workers’ Compensation Insurance Specialists for Tri-State Business Owners: Unhappy with your rates, company, being canceled, losses causing difficulty getting coverage, in the middle of an audit dispute, payrolls misclassified, or whatever your issue, we can help! We have special programs for Auto Services, Contractors (especially in New York), Limousine Services, logistics companies, Manufacturers, Recyclers, and Truckers, we can help ANY tri-state business owner. We are considered “Preferred Agents” for this one program that if we can get you into, their pricing is excellent, offers long-term coverage stability, and can cover multi-state operations. The program takes the hassle out of doing annual audits too.

If you would like to speak with us call Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853 or click here to email or click here to visit our website.

Company: BGES Group, 216A Larchmont Acres West, Larchmont, NY 10538
e-mail: bgesgroup@gmail.com
website: http://www.bgesgroup.com
© – Copyright – 2024 – BGES Group

Are you a New York business owner looking for new Workers’ Compensation insurance?

BGES Group offers programs for:

· Auto services
· Contractors including asbestos, demolition, and roofers
· Limousine services
· Manufactures
· Moving and storage agents
· Truckers
· We can help any company

BGES Group prides itself on our ability to obtain competitive rates for clients while providing coverage that is tailored to their specific needs. For example, we have a program that’s been around for 24 years that can cover a lot of New York contractors from low risk such as an electrician and plumbers to high risk such as interior demolition and roofer. Regardless of the industry you are in, we can find you a policy.

Tell us your concerns. Whether they’re finding lower rates or replacing coverage, we have 40+ insurance companies to market your account to.

By the way, when you call we answer the phone. No more dealing with answering systems, being placed on hold, with people who are nice but don’t know much about insurance. Our service is fantastic…go read our “Google Reviews” to see what others think. Call or text Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853 day or evening, whenever it’s most convenient for you!

We offer programs that:

1. Require just a $200 deposit to bind coverage.
2. Where you go online every month and report payroll and pay based on past month’s payroll. When payrolls are less you pay less, when they are more you pay more.
3. Offer policies where you pay in monthly installments.
4. Offer payroll/workers’ compensation programs that can insure contractors, limousine services, movers, truckers just about any type of company.
5. Offer payroll, workers’ compensation, and even group health coverage.
6. Offer coverage for business owners who have had a run of bad luck loss-wise. We’ve been able to obtain coverage for accounts that have had $1 million plus in losses at competitive rates.
7. Offer state and assigned risk plans that ensure no business is left without coverage.
8. Tell us what you are looking for and we can go and get it for you.

To learn more about how we can help you secure the right workers’ compensation policy for your business, contact Gary Wallach today. You can reach him by calling or texting 914-806-5853, or by emailing bgesgroup@gmail.com.

BGES Group, located in Larchmont, N.Y. are New York Construction Insurance Specialists that represent 50+ companies and all the BEST general & umbrella liability programs! We offer every coverage you need including property, builders risk, inland marine, general liability, umbrella liability, auto, bid & performance bonds, workers’ compensation, N.Y.S. disability, and group health. We are extremely responsive, responsible, trustworthy, and fast, minimize your insurance headaches, we don’t charge ridiculous policy or service fees and when you call, text, or email, whatever time of day, even weekends, we are there to help YOU!

BGES Group are Workers’ Compensation Insurance Specialists for Tri-State Business Owners: Unhappy with your rates, company, being canceled, losses causing difficulty getting coverage, in the middle of an audit dispute, payrolls misclassified, or whatever your issue, we can help! We have special programs for Auto Services, Contractors (especially in New York), Limousine Services, logistics companies, Manufacturers, Recyclers, and Truckers, we can help ANY tri-state business owner. We are considered “Preferred Agents” for this one program if we can get you into their pricing is excellent, offers long-term coverage stability, and can cover multi-state operations. The program takes the hassle out of doing annual audits too.

If you would like to speak with us call Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853 or click here to email or click here to visit our website.

Company: BGES Group, 216A Larchmont Acres West, Larchmont, NY 10538
e-mail: bgesgroup@gmail.com
website: http://www.bgesgroup.com
© – Copyright – 2024 – BGES Group

The Internal Revenue Service and Department of Labor have been going after employers who misclassify employees as independent subcontractors – and the construction industry is squarely in their crosshairs.

In late 2011, the DOL and IRS entered into a formal agreement of cooperation in sharing information and data in order to enforce employment laws. If you have been improperly failing to withhold income taxes and contribute the employer portion of the Social Security and Medicare taxes, and failing to pay unemployment insurance premiums and workers compensation premiums for people functioning as employees, and one of them complains to the Department of Labor, you can expect the IRS to get wind of it, too.

Additionally, if you are using an unlicensed contractor, and closely directing their work, the Department of Labor and IRS will consider this individual to be an employee, not a contractor. If that person is injured while functioning as an employee, the employer is liable… and you had better have workers compensation insurance in place.

The distinction is especially critical in the construction industry, because of the innately hazardous nature of the workplace. Independent contractors are generally expected to provide their own insurance. Employees are not, but are covered under their employers’ plan. Failure to comply with employee classification laws risks employees falling through the cracks – and severe consequences for employers.

A Pervasive Form of Fraud

The deliberate misclassification of employees as independent contractors is an epidemic form of payroll fraud in the construction industry – and law enforcement at both the federal and state level nationwide are focusing resources on eradicating it.

Some studies indicate that as many as one worker in twenty is misclassified as a contractor when he should be considered an employee – and that companies that do misclassify workers as independent contractors do so routinely. Among employers that have been caught conducting this kind of fraud, they do so for an average of 40 percent of their workers.

This creates a substantial pricing advantage for dishonest contractors – and makes it that much more difficult for legitimate construction contractors to compete on a level playing field.

The practice also severely undercuts the industry as a whole, according to some observers and market participants. Marek Brothers Construction CEO Stan Marek maintains that as long as dishonest contractors circumvent wage and hour laws, there is no viable career path for young people who might otherwise consider going into the construction industry. “We will never attract young men and women into the construction industry until there is a career path,” he told a panel of Texas legislators and regulators. “There’s a tremendous need for skilled workers. A lot of kids don’t want to go to college. But if the construction industry is dominated by businesses that exploit workers, Texas kids aren’t going to sign up… It is a cancer that is eating the industry. It is killing us.”

Penalties for Payroll Fraud

It’s not just federal officials cracking down on employee misclassification and payroll fraud – state governments are also going after employers practicing this form of fraud, and a number of states have actually increased penalties in recent years.

Companies caught committing payroll fraud are typically charged back taxes and interest by both the IRS and state revenue officials. Companies are also fined up to hundreds of dollars per day per worker not covered by workers compensation insurance. Construction firms have also been hit with on-the-spot ‘stop work’ orders when state inspectors discover workers on site who aren’t covered by workers compensation. This can lead to cost overruns, time delays and uncomfortable conversations with customers and prime contractors upstream.

In egregious cases, people have been sentenced to prison time.  For example:

On September 6, 2012, in Richmond, Va., Mark S. Holpe, of Midlothian, Va., was sentenced to 18 months in prison and fined $40,000 for evading the payment of employment taxes on unreported cash wages he paid employees of Nature’s Way Landscaping, Inc. Holpe pleaded guilty to evading the assessment of $326,196 of employment taxes. Holpe worked for Nature’s Way, a business that did residential and commercial landscaping in the Richmond metro area. He was originally the president, but became the treasurer in 2007 when he sold a portion of the business. In entering his plea, Holpe acknowledged that the company had two groups of employees during tax years 2006 through 2009. Holpe admitted that he paid one group of approximately 30 employees $2,132,000 in cash wages during that period, without withholding social security taxes.

Staying out of Trouble

It is true that there is substantial gray area in defining who is an employee vs. who is an independent contractor. The IRS has published a 20-point series of tests to help determine how a worker should be properly categorized. In the construction industry, a lot of it comes back to who is holding the license: If you hire an unlicensed contractor, and you are directing their work and telling them what to do on a daily basis, and they are operating under your license, this is clearly an employee.

If that worker is injured, the employer is liable, and if workers compensation insurance is not in place, the medical costs could potentially push an employer into bankruptcy – even before back taxes, penalties and possible criminal prosecution is taken into account.

By way of further examples, your independent contractor may legally be an employee if any of the following factors apply:

1. You provide tools, training and/or materials for the job.
2. You are closely directing what time the worker or workers must show up on the job.
3. You are ‘counseling’ workers in writing about tardiness or other disciplinary issues.
4. You are dictating methods. Contractors don’t tell subcontractors how a job is to be done – they just define the scope of work and leave it to the subcontractor how best to complete it. If you tell someone how to do a job, rather than just describing the end state, chances are you could be turning them into a legal employee.
5. You expect any kind of exclusivity.
6. Do you require any kind of company-provided training?
7. Do you pay transportation expenses or provide transportation for these workers?
8. Do you reserve the right to terminate the worker at will?

The complete IRS 20-factor test can be viewed here.

Note that not all 20 factors need apply for the IRS, Department of Labor or state officials to determine that an employment relationship exists. Officials can and have determined that an employment relationship exists even when just a few of the 20 factors apply. Meanwhile, if there is any doubt or gray area, it’s important to address it immediately – and maintain legally required workers compensation, medical and other coverage until you are certain you are engaged in a bona fide contractor-to-contractor relationship, rather than an employer/employee relationship.

BGES Group, located in Larchmont, N.Y. are New York Construction Insurance Specialists that represent 50+ companies and all the BEST general & umbrella liability programs!  We offer every coverage you need including property, builders risk, inland marine, general liability, umbrella liability, auto, bid & performance bonds, workers’ compensation, N.Y.S. disability and group health.  We are extremely responsive, responsible, trustworthy, fast, minimize your insurance headaches, we don’t charge ridiculous policy or service fees and when you call, text or email, whatever time of day, even weekends, we are there to help YOU! 

BGES Group are Workers’ Compensation Insurance Specialists for Tri-State Business Owners: Unhappy with your rates, company, being cancelled, losses causing difficulty getting coverage, in the middle of an audit dispute, payrolls misclassified, whatever your issue, we can help!  We have special programs for: Auto Service, Contractors (especially New York), Limousine Services, Logistic Companies, Manufacturers, Recyclers, Truckers, we can help ANY tri-state business owner.  We are considered “Preferred Agents” for this one program that if we can get you into their pricing is excellent, offers long-term coverage stability and can cover multi-state operations. Program takes the hassle out of doing annual audits too.

If you would like to speak with us call Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853 or click here to email or click here to visit our website.

Company: BGES Group, 216A Larchmont Acres West, Larchmont, NY 10538

e-mail: bgesgroup@gmail.com

website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

© – Copyright – 2024 – BGES Group

As more and more people are returning to work in offices after working remotely for a few years since the COVID-19 pandemic arrived, bullying and other workplace misconduct is increasing, according to a new study.

The study by Fama Technologies, a maker of applicant screening software, found increases in misconduct growing across industry sectors, putting employee morale, retention and productivity at risk for affected companies. If pervasive enough, it can turn into a legal liability for an employer as well as a blot on its corporate reputation.

It’s crucial for employers to understand the problem of employee misconduct and take steps to eliminate it.

Fama Technologies notes that one bad apple out of 20 in the workplace can have a significant effect on morale, productivity, engagement and retention. According to Fama: “This is known as the 5% rule — and is the foundational benchmark for this research.”

Employee misconduct is defined in the report as behavior that violates employer policies or breaks the law, and which negatively affects a company and its employees. Misconduct can be committed by rank-and-file workers, supervisors, managers and even in the C-suite.

There is a wide range of misconduct, including:

• Tardiness
• Drug use
• Bullying and abusiveness
• Harassment
• Sexual misconduct
• Intolerance
• Threats and violence.*

*Nearly 2 million U.S. workers are victims of workplace violence each year, according to OSHA.

Fama’s “State of Misconduct at Work” report found that:

• 10% of job candidates were found to have misconduct issues in 2023.
• Content with misconduct increased 40% year over year.
• Eight out of nine industries failed to successfully mitigate misconduct below the 5% threshold.
• Industries with the most misconduct were consumer services, media and entertainment, and education.
• The most common forms of misconduct were harassment, sexual misconduct and intolerance.

What employers can do

Putting in place a system for preventing misconduct requires input from a number of company individuals, including rank-and file employees, HR and IT. Focus on the following:

Create and implement unambiguous policies. Include a clear and concise worker code of conduct in your employee handbook. Specify exactly what types of behavior are considered inappropriate, as well consequences for non-compliance.

The policy should outline the consequences for various types of misconduct. Consider including a social media policy in the code as errant employees increasingly turn to those sources to vent and harass.

Set up a safe-reporting mechanism. Put in place a mechanism for employees to report misconduct with the promise of anonymity and without fear of reprisal. Identify who they should turn to and how to file a complaint.

After someone files a report, it’s incumbent on the employer to conduct an investigation to verify the complaint. That can include surveillance, interviewing other employees, and more.

Be vigilant. Employee theft and fraud is also misconduct. Be vigilant of employees that may be first to arrive and last to leave every day. Require that everyone take time off from work and use at least some of their vacation. It’s easier to detect fraud when the perpetrator is not at work for some time.

At the same time, requiring your staff to take time off can also help reduce their life stress and force them to unplug from work for a while.

Insurance

One final step is to ensure that you have in place an employment practices liability insurance policy, which can help cover the costs of employee lawsuits, jury awards or settlements.

It can protect you if your organization is sued for a covered event like harassment or discrimination.

BGES Group, located in Larchmont, N.Y. are New York Construction Insurance Specialists that represent 50+ companies and all the BEST general & umbrella liability programs!  We offer every coverage you need including property, builders risk, inland marine, general liability, umbrella liability, auto, bid & performance bonds, workers’ compensation, N.Y.S. disability and group health.  We are extremely responsive, responsible, trustworthy, fast, minimize your insurance headaches, we don’t charge ridiculous policy or service fees and when you call, text or email, whatever time of day, even weekends, we are there to help YOU! 

BGES Group are Workers’ Compensation Insurance Specialists for Tri-State Business Owners: Unhappy with your rates, company, being cancelled, losses causing difficulty getting coverage, in the middle of an audit dispute, payrolls misclassified, whatever your issue, we can help!  We have special programs for: Auto Service, Contractors (especially New York), Limousine Services, Logistic Companies, Manufacturers, Recyclers, Truckers, we can help ANY tri-state business owner.  We are considered “Preferred Agents” for this one program that if we can get you into their pricing is excellent, offers long-term coverage stability and can cover multi-state operations. Program takes the hassle out of doing annual audits too.

If you would like to speak with us call Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853 or click here to email or click here to visit our website.

Company: BGES Group, 216A Larchmont Acres West, Larchmont, NY 10538

e-mail: bgesgroup@gmail.com

website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

© – Copyright – 2024 – BGES Group

We Have Programs for:

• Auto Service Stations
• Contractors – From Electricians (Low Risk) To Demolition and Roofing (High Risk)
• Distributors
• Limousine Services
• Manufacturers
• Truckers
• Wholesalers

Plans Offer:

• Rates savings up to 40%
• Protection while working in multiple states.  Please note state and assigned risk plan policies cover you based on that state’s wc benefit laws.  If you work out of state, weeks at a time, an employee gets injured, files claim out of state, you could be out of pocket tens, hundreds of thousands of dollars.  Our plans offer “The Right Protection.”
• Low first year deposit, no renewal deposit
• Monthly premium based on previous month’s payroll.  This has been a life savor to many of our client’s during these times.
• We DO NOT charge $500-$2,500 policy fees, 10% service fees, $25-$100 for certificates.  You can issue your own certificates on-line or we will issue them for you.  You never have to wait.
• If you are a contractor from the start we allow you to split field payrolls by trade.  Payrolls are NOT thrown into the highest rated class codes.
• Do you have a high Experience Modification factor or poor loss experience?  We can help you lower your rates
• Are your company’s auditors difficult to deal with?  When there are issues do they give you the benefit of the doubt?  Ours are very fair, reasonable, usually take no more than 15-30 minutes, easy to work with and accommodating.
• Looking for a new payroll company that can do your Workers’ Comp, payroll, W-2’s, direct deposits, NYS-45s, 941s and more?   How about a company that owns their own workers comp carrier.  That provides long-term coverage stability and whose rates are fiercely competitive?  We have such a plan.
• Do you have to wait on hold for 5-25 minutes before someone answers your call?  Certificates, does it take hours to get one?  Filing a claim, does your broker assist you?  Reviewing your coverage, does anyone do so? Our company offers FIRST CLASS service.  You will NEVER have to wait for ANYTHING and We DO NOT charge ridiculous policy or 10% service fees!

Problems We are Seeing:

1. Various well known insurance companies are non renewing their New York construction workers compensation policies.

2. New York Contractors Experience Modification Factors are having big swings. One contractor we are working on has a 1.43 experience mod. Another 1.46. Another .62. This is affecting getting work.

3. New York contractors are being asked for a ton of paperwork when it comes to their audits. It is taking up a lot of time and a large portion of the audits are incorrect when processed.

4. We are seeing missing credit(s) which could contractors thousands if not tens of thousands of dollars.

We Can Help You Address all These Problems.

If you would like to speak with us call Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853 or click here to email or click here to visit our website.

Testimonials

Maria P

We have worked with them for years. BGES is a great company to work with. Gary is always a pleasure to deal with. They are thorough and detailed and very prompt! I would highly recommend them!

Zbigniew J

We have worked with BGES for many years. Extremely helpful and always on top of the game! Gary is the kind of a broker who provides ” 24/7 customer service” whenever needed. We could not recommend his services enough !

Al Mri

Very very satisfied, great customer service, great rates compare to other insurance companies. Mr. Wallach is a very reliable & knowledgeable broker.

James K

I have been purchasing our Workman’s Comp insurance from Garry Wallach at BGES Group since 2013. Gary has always given My company excellent service and rates that no competitor can come close to. …More

Frank R

Gary is a solution based agent and very knowledgeable in the world of commercial insurance. I am very impressed with his approach and attention to detail. I will recommend him to my colleagues.

BGES Group’s office, located in Larchmont, NY is a full service insurance agency offering, Property, Liability, Umbrella Liability, Business Auto, Bid & Performance Bonds, Inland Marine, Worker’s Compensation, New York State Disability, Group Health, Life insurance, Personal lines.

BGES Group are Worker’s Compensation Specialists for the States of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut – Issues we address: 1) Lowering pricing – we have specialty programs that can save you up to 40%; 2) Finding a new company; 3) Being cancelled or non renewed; 4) Audit disputes; 5) Company creating fictitious payroll at audit time; 6) Lowering high experience modifications factors; 7) Misclassification of payrolls; 8) Lowering or eliminating renewal deposits;   9) Getting coverage when you’ve been without for a few months; 10) Covering multiple states under one policy; 11) Eliminating 10% service or policy fees; 12) Timely issuance of certificates; 13) Always being able to get someone on the phone or by email when you need to.

Special Contractor Insurance Programs (NY, NJ, CT) – We we have 50+ insurance companies to market your general liability, umbrella liability, business auto, workers compensation, bid & performance bonds and group health coverages.  We help contractors set up proper risk transfer mechanisms.  If you’re a contractor we offer extensive information about insurance markets, coverages, risk transfer mechanisms, subcontractor screening, ways to lower your insurance costs that lower them.

If you would like to speak with us call Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853 or click here to email or click here to visit our website.

Company: BGES Group, 216A Larchmont Acres West, Larchmont, NY 10538

e-mail: bgesgroup@gmail.com

website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

© – Copyright – 2024 – BGES Group

Businesses are increasingly using smartphones and tablets to manage their risks and improve their workplace safety.

An increasing number of applications for these devices — matched with other technologies — can help companies prevent losses, reduce the chances of workplace accidents and manage risk.

There are also a number of innovative apps that allow businesses to identify, report and address safety issues, security risks and other problems remotely.

This technology can make life easier for a company’s risk manager or human resource officers, adding another layer of protection.

Onsite systems

Mobile devices can now connect to business security and utilities systems. Many security equipment vendors offer apps that give business owners instant information when they’re away from the premises.

For example, the system may send a text alert to a smartphone if a security camera picks up sudden movements. Other systems communicate via apps that will send alerts to you on your phone in similar situations.

Other products may stream videos from multiple security cameras to a smartphone app, enabling the owner or personnel to keep an eye on the premises during off hours. This real-time information can help business owners limit the size of losses.

For example, a system might send a text alert when it detects a leak in the building’s plumbing system. Once alerted, the building owner can shut off the water remotely or in person, thus limiting the extent of the damage.

Video from cameras that monitor the premises can also be saved and used in helping businesses and police recover stolen property. A coffee manufacturer in Portland, Oregon, implemented a system like this.

Weeks after installation, the company recorded video of a burglar stealing thousands of dollars in equipment. The owners downloaded the video, sent it to the local police and posted it on social media channels. The video produced a full criminal investigation, arrest and conviction.

Risk management apps

There are several noteworthy applications on the market that businesses can use to manage their risks and workplace safety. The apps make it easy for employees to communicate with management about possible hazards that could lead to injuries in the workplace, particularly for employers with multiple locations or far-flung operations.

All of the following are available for both the iPhone and Android operating systems.

RiskReporter — This app is designed to help risk managers keep track of their organization’s potential risks. Users can record risk-related events as they occur and e-mail them to supervisors, all the while noting suggested risk-control measures and action plans.

Origami Mobile — The app enables risk professionals, employees and contractors to conduct job site audits and inspections and report incidents from locations nationwide even in instances where Wi-Fi is unavailable.

Users are able to detect and report workplace operational hazards and behavior trends, monitor effectiveness of safety programs, gather and leverage real-time incident data and provide coaching and training services to workers.

Kizeo Forms —This app allows users to customize components of the app specifically to their workplace. Its main function is the ability to report incidents from remote locations. Features include geolocation and the ability to fill out data from remote customer locations without internet.

The app also includes features like:

• Remote near-miss reporting
• Remote security log
• Remote risk assessment
• Remote check of personal protective equipment
• Ergonomics inspection.

Risk Assessor —This app lets you create detailed safety reports from your phone or tablet. You can brand up the reports with your company details and create a bespoke hazard and control list to suit your business.

BGES Group, located in Larchmont, N.Y. are New York Construction Insurance Specialists that represent 50+ companies and all the BEST general & umbrella liability programs!  We offer every coverage you need including property, builders risk, inland marine, general liability, umbrella liability, auto, bid & performance bonds, workers’ compensation, N.Y.S. disability and group health.  We are extremely responsive, responsible, trustworthy, fast, minimize your insurance headaches, we don’t charge ridiculous policy or service fees and when you call, text or email, whatever time of day, even weekends, we are there to help YOU! 

BGES Group are Workers’ Compensation Insurance Specialists for Tri-State Business Owners: Unhappy with your rates, company, being cancelled, losses causing difficulty getting coverage, in the middle of an audit dispute, payrolls misclassified, whatever your issue, we can help!  We have special programs for: Auto Service, Contractors (especially New York), Limousine Services, Logistic Companies, Manufacturers, Recyclers, Truckers, we can help ANY tri-state business owner.  We are considered “Preferred Agents” for this one program that if we can get you into their pricing is excellent, offers long-term coverage stability and can cover multi-state operations. Program takes the hassle out of doing annual audits too.

If you would like to speak with us call Gary Wallach at 914-806-5853 or click here to email or click here to visit our website.

Company: BGES Group, 216A Larchmont Acres West, Larchmont, NY 10538

e-mail: bgesgroup@gmail.com

website: http://www.bgesgroup.com

© – Copyright – 2024 – BGES Group