<span id="hs_cos_wrapper_name" class="hs_cos_wrapper hs_cos_wrapper_meta_field hs_cos_wrapper_type_text" style="" data-hs-cos-general-type="meta_field" data-hs-cos-type="text" >How to Choose the Best Employer of Record</span>

choose-employer-of-recordExpanding into the United States is both exciting and a little intimidating for most Canadian business owners. The American market has a reputation as being a tough nut to crack, but if you succeed there, you can succeed anywhere.

Canadian business owners sometimes feel a little lost when it comes to the nitty-gritty of their US operations. When you step over the border, there are many changes, ranging from tax law to minimum wages to health care. As an employer looking to hire on American workers, you may not be sure where to start.

One smart move is to work with an employer of record. An employer of record can help you navigate and succeed in an unfamiliar business landscape. There are many EORs in the US, and each of them offers something a little different. How can you be sure you’ve picked the right partner for your business?

The following tips can help. Read on to learn how to choose the best employer of record for your business needs.

Define Why You Need an Employer of Record

The first step you should take is to define your business’s needs. Since each EOR offers something a bit different, knowing what you need could help you single out the best fit for your business.

Consider what you need the most help with. Is it locating talent, or do you require more help with navigating US payroll? How familiar are you with US business taxes or employment legislation in the state you’ll be operating in?

Most Canadian employers find they need a comprehensive suite of services. Look at what each EOR specializes in. Some may be more focused on helping you find and hire talent, while others place their pride in the payroll services. At the end of the day, any EOR you hire should be ready to help you manage your US employees from end to end.

Do Some Research

The next step to finding the right EOR for your business is to research different firms. You’ll want to ask plenty of questions during this stage.

First, make sure the EOR offers the services you’re most interested in. Then, check that they serve the area you plan to operate in. You might find a great EOR, but if their service is limited to Maryland and you plan to open up shop in California, you might have a problem.

Next, compare EORs who offer the services in your new location. Do they have a specialty? Do they offer additional services that could help you as your business expands?

The final step of your research should be reaching out to some of the employers of record you’ve researched. Ask about their experience in your industry or call for a quote.

Evaluate Offers and Customer Service

With a few quotes in hand, you can begin to compare EORs and determine which one is best suited for your business needs. While getting the right services at the right price is important, you’ll also want to consider the customer service you receive.

How quickly does the EOR’s team get back to you? Can they answer your questions about payroll or workers’ compensation? You should walk away with a sense of confidence. After all, this is a partnership. You’ll be working with the EOR for some time to come, so if they’re not meeting your expectations during the research and quotation phase, you should think twice about signing on the dotted line.

Get Ready to Grow

The final matter you should think about when you’re looking for the best EOR is the future. If you partner with this EOR today, will they still be able to serve your needs a year from now? Five years from now?

The employer of record you choose should be ready to grow with you. Finding the right EOR could be just a click away.