The 2026 HR Compliance Checklist
A working checklist of federal and multi-state compliance items HR teams should confirm before year-end.
Compliance · 7 min read · Published August 19, 2026
This isn't a complete legal compliance audit — requirements vary by state, headcount and industry, and this list is not a substitute for advice from employment counsel. It's the set of items our consulting team confirms first when reviewing a client's HR compliance posture, organized by category so you can work through the ones that apply to you.
Pay & classification
- Employee classifications (exempt/non-exempt) reviewed against current job duties, not job titles
- Independent contractor classifications reviewed against current federal and state tests
- Pay transparency requirements confirmed for every state you post jobs or employ people in
- Minimum wage and overtime rates updated for every jurisdiction where you have employees
Policies & documentation
- Employee handbook reflects current leave laws in every state you operate in
- Harassment and discrimination policies reference current reporting channels
- I-9 and work authorization records complete and stored separately from personnel files
- Job descriptions reflect actual current duties, particularly for exempt roles
Benefits & leave
- ACA reporting requirements confirmed for your current headcount
- State-mandated paid sick leave and family leave policies documented and communicated
- COBRA notice procedures tested for accuracy and timing
Training & recordkeeping
- Required harassment prevention training completed and documented for all applicable employees
- Workplace safety training current for any regulated roles
- Personnel file retention periods confirmed against state requirements
Need a formal compliance audit rather than a checklist? Our HR Consulting team can run one against your specific states and headcount.