As 2025 in underway, it’s the perfect time for private companies to reflect on recent accomplishments and focus on setting the stage for an even brighter year ahead. Starting the year strong often begins with a comprehensive HR checklist to ensure nothing is overlooked and to lay the foundation for growth. Here are some essential steps to position your organization for success in 2025.

Compensation, Payroll, and Benefits

Compensation benchmarking and required payroll administration changes are among the most important year-end tasks to consider.

• Keep Payroll Books Open – Many payroll providers will allow you to “keep the books open” after your final scheduled pay run to allow for last-minute payroll runs or corrections. This is particularly important if you are waiting for pay statements from third-party disability providers, for example.
• Send Updated Tax Rates – Review your tax notices and notify your payroll provider of any changes in unemployment tax rates or other contribution changes for the upcoming year.
• Consider Compensation Benchmarking – Look into compensation benchmarking to ensure the company is staying competitive against industry standards.

Compliance and Reporting

Compliance tasks are a critical year-end activity for Human Resources. Keep in mind these can vary based on your organization’s size, industry, and location(s), so be sure to do your research to compile a complete list.

• Review Employee Handbook and Update Employment Notices – Update your employee handbook to reflect any new laws or internal changes, many changes happen at the beginning of the year. Review compliance posters as well as any federal, state, and local changes.
• Gather ACA Records – Ensure records and data are ready for the required ACA reports (if applicable) ensuring that forms 1094-C and 1095-C will be prepared correctly in the new year.

Planning and Strategy

Developing strategies for the new year sets a strong foundation. Take this time to reflect on the current year and plan for the upcoming year, identifying HR goals that align with company goals and objectives.

• Perform Staffing Analysis – Analyze staffing needs and forecast hiring requirements to guide your recruitment goals. Be sure your human resources objectives focus on employee retention, engagement, training, and continuous improvement while keeping in line with company goals.
• Plan the Calendar – Get your calendar ready! Schedule your upcoming employee engagement initiatives and training and development programs. Planning now will ensure the costs associated are included in this year’s budget.

The HR checklist above should get you well on your way to a fantastic new year. Reflect and plan ahead for 2025 – and let us help you achieve success.