#BNformed, stay informed

  It’s getting chilly out there. And that change can mean only one thing - winter weather. While we can’t stop snow, sleet, or freezing rain, we can be prepared. Making sure you are as ready as possible is vital for having a safe winter season. According to the latest information from FEMA, there are some basic steps to take before a winter storm: Add the following to your basic   emergency preparedness kit . Sand to improve traction. Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment. Sufficient heating fuel. You may become isolated in your home and regular fuel sources may be cut off.  Extra clothing and blankets. Make a  family communications plan . Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or to commercial radio or television newscasts   for the latest information, and follow instructions given by local officials. Minimize travel. Keep a disaster supplies kit in your vehicle - especially if you are in an area hit by a pandemic or riots. To learn even more, head over to  ready.gov/winter-weather . An

Written by: ​Jimmy Norton, CPCU Employees or independent contractors?  This question has confounded employers, accountants, tax collectors and regulators for years.  Each option offers benefits and challenges.  Companies often classify their workers as independent contractors (1099s) to avoid the added expense of payroll taxes, employee benefits, unemployment, and additional insurance costs.  Unfortunately, the paper classification frequently does not describe the true relationship.  This past year, several states and the Federal Government took steps to clarify the distinction between the two worker categories.  Regulators want to capture lost tax revenue and help workers regain entitlements lost due to misclassification by employers Virginia passed two laws in 2020: Effective July 1,2020, workers can sue their employers for past wages, benefits and other compensation.  Under this law,  all workers are considered employees , and employers must prove that they are independent contracto