1st – It’s time to distribute W-2’s and 1099’s, accompanied by Federal and State Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Notices.
California Employers must provide every employee from the prior year with a notice regarding eligibility for the following:
- Voluntary Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program;
- CalFile (a free online program for taxpayers to complete and e-file their state personal income tax returns); and
- State and federal antipoverty tax credits, including federal and California EITC
Employers must send the first required notice with W-2 or 1099 forms, or within one week of delivery. It is a requirement that employers deliver the first notice via hand-delivery or by mail to the last known address. Note: Posting on a bulletin board or sending via electronic communication does not meet the requirements.
Employers must send a second notification to all employees in March of the same year. The second notice may be provided using the same method as the first notice, or via electronic communications.
It is recommended that you keep a copy of the items sent for your records. Note the delivery method and date.
2nd – Ensure your OSHA Logs are complete. Post the Annual Summary (300A) on February 1 through April 30.
Need a refresher? Access the Recordkeeping & Reporting Requirements
Find additional information here:
Electronic Submission requirements and information
3rd – Ensure you have the following Notices in the Required California and Federal Employment Poster.
All employment posters must be posted in an area that employees frequent (i.e. the break room, a common hallway, or near the timeclock).
Posters are not to be in restrooms, closets, or any “closed” area.
Posters may need to be posted in multiple languages and locations.
Notes for additional posting requirements:
- Wage Order: Ensure the proper wage order is posted in addition to the all-in-one poster.
- Unique Posters: Some industries, locations, and circumstances require additional posters, such as local regulations, use of industrial trucks (forklifts, tow tractors, etc.), cosmetology, agriculture, use of hazardous chemicals, prevailing wage, etc.
- Review this link to obtain industry posters: https://www.dir.ca.gov/wpnodb.html.
- MPN poster: If you have a Managed Provider Network (MPN) with your Workers Compensation policy, this poster must also be posted. You can generally find this or instructions to access in your Workers’ Compensation policy renewal or welcome package.
- Cal/OSHA 300a: This must be posted from February 1 through April 30 of each year, and at each location (if applicable).
- Teleworking Staff: All teleworking staff must receive posters.
If you have questions about these 2026 important to-dos or need HR support, we are here to help!
📞 916.576.1976
📧 hrninja@peoplerockhr.com
Offices in Folsom and Orange County, CA
