November Compliance Steps to Stay Ahead of Year-End


News November 17, 2025

November Compliance Highlights for Employers

As November approaches, Massachusetts employers face several key HR compliance deadlines. Here’s what organizations with 6+ employees should prioritize:

  • 2026 New DFML Posters & Notices Now Available: 
    All Massachusetts employers (including employers with private or self-insured benefits plans) are required to distribute certain information to their employees under the PFML law.
  • HIRD Filing (Nov. 15–Dec. 15): Submit your annual Health Insurance Responsibility Disclosure electronically to stay compliant.
  • Annual Harassment Policy Distribution: Required each year, with best practice including employee acknowledgments.
  • W-2 Preparation: Confirm employee mailing addresses and personal details now to avoid delays and reissues.
  • Year-End Handbook Review: Ensure policies reflect current laws. AIM HR Solutions offers handbook creation, reviews, subscription services, and model handbooks to keep you compliant.

Use this guide to stay ahead of year-end requirements and enter the new year with confidence.

Plus, don’t forget these key dates:

  • Nov 27 – Observance of Thanksgiving Day
  • Dec 1 – Form W-4 due on or before this date
  • Compliance Calendar: Check our Legal Holiday Compliance Calendar for permit requirements and rules on scheduling employees for these holidays

HIRD Filing Deadline: Are You Ready?

For employers with 6+ Massachusetts employees. The annual HIRD filing window runs from November 15 to December 15, and missing it can put your organization out of compliance. The article below explains who must file, what information is required, and how to submit your form electronically. Learn more here: Health Insurance Responsibility Disclosure (HIRD) FAQs | Mass.gov

Annual Harassment Policy Distribution: Your Legal Reminder

Mandatory for employers with 6+ employees
Massachusetts requires employers to distribute their harassment policy to all employees every year. Best practice also includes collecting an annual acknowledgment to protect your organization. This article includes helpful resources, including the MCAD’s model policy and updated guidelines.

Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) had a sample policy here and guidelines here.

W-2 Season Prep: Verify Employee Information Now

Before W-2s go out, it’s essential to confirm that employee mailing addresses and personal information are accurate. This simple year-end task prevents delays, reissues, and unnecessary headaches for both HR teams and employees.

Year-End Employee Handbook Review: Ensure Your Policies Are Up to Date

As the year winds down, it’s critical to review your employee handbook to ensure every policy reflects current laws and organizational practices. Outdated content can create compliance risks, inconsistencies, and confusion across your workforce.

Need support with your handbook? AIM HR Solutions offers full handbook reviews, handbook creation, our ongoing Handbook Subscription Policy Service, and both small-business and standard Model Handbooks. Whether you need a brand-new handbook or updates to your existing one, we’ll ensure your policies are compliant, current, and ready for the new year. Learn more here.

 


Not signed up for our monthly Talent Talk newsletter?

Get updates like these delivered straight to your inbox—plus training announcements, live podcast invites, free HR resources, and more. Available to AIM members and non-members. Sign up here!