Under the Inflation Reduction Act, taxpayers may receive increased tax benefits by meeting prevailing wage and apprenticeship requirements (PWA). If you are contractor looking to maximize tax incentives, it is imperative that you ensure compliance to all prevailing wage laws. Here we have five of our top tips for making sure your business is within compliance under IRS prevailing wage regulations.
Educate Your Team About Prevailing Wages
One of the most important steps in ensuring prevailing wage compliance is to educate your team. It’s essential that project managers and financial staff understand prevailing wage laws and compliance requirements thoroughly. Regular training sessions can help keep your team updated on any changes in legislation and best practices. By fostering a culture of compliance within your organization, you empower your employees to identify potential issues early on and make informed decisions that adhere to prevailing wage regulations.
Leverage Payroll Compliance Technology
Utilizing technology can greatly enhance your firm’s ability to manage prevailing wage compliance efficiently and affordably at a much lower cost than hiring a payroll specialist. Invest in payroll compliance and tracking software such as Pivla, which is specifically designed for tracking and managing prevailing wage compliance requirements. These tools can automate much of the process, which not only saves time and money, but also significantly reduces the potential for human error. With technology handling the repetitive tasks, your team can focus on more strategic aspects of the project, ensuring wage compliance without overwhelming administrative burdens.
Consult with Prevailing Wage Experts
Engaging with professionals who specialize in prevailing wage compliance can be a smart move, especially for larger projects with complex requirements. Don’t hesitate to consult with expert payroll specialists who have a deep understanding of the regulations in your area. Understanding the Davis–Bacon Act and the details surrounding prevailing wage implementation can be difficult for businesses without extensive experience and training. Although expensive, professional insights can be invaluable, providing guidance on best practices and helping to navigate any challenges that may arise. Leveraging their expertise can ensure that your projects remain compliant and that your firm avoids costly penalties.
Thoroughly Vet Subcontractors
Before entering into contracts with subcontractors, it is crucial to ensure they are fully aware of their wage compliance obligations. Conducting thorough due diligence on subcontractors can help protect your firm from potential liabilities. By confirming that they understand and are prepared to meet prevailing wage requirements, you reduce the risk of non-compliance, which can reflect poorly on your organization and result in costly financial penalties. Establishing clear expectations and communication channels with subcontractors fosters a compliant project environment.
Maintain Comprehensive Records
Keeping detailed records of all payroll activities and communications related to prevailing wage compliance is essential. Comprehensive documentation can be crucial in the event of an audit or dispute, serving as evidence of your adherence to regulations. Regularly updating and organizing these records not only prepares your firm for potential inspections but also enhances overall project management. By maintaining meticulous records, you demonstrate your commitment to compliance and foster trust among all involved stakeholders and employees impacted by prevailing wage.
Learn more about how Pivla's compliance payroll software can save you time, money, and ensure you maximize your tax incentive benefits all while being within Prevailing Wage Compliance.