Your Compliance Partner. Protecting People, Payroll, and Business Growth.

Payroll & HR Compliance FAQ's

Why is payroll and HR compliance important?

Payroll and HR compliance is essential because it ensures employees are paid fairly, workplace rules are followed, and your business avoids costly penalties. When businesses fall out of compliance, it can trigger wage claims, lawsuits, or even government fines. Beyond legal risks, compliance also helps maintain employee trust—when people know they’re treated fairly, they’re more likely to stay engaged and loyal. 

What labor laws do Maine businesses need to adhere to?

Maine employers must pay close attention to both state and federal regulations. At the state level, laws like Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML), Earned Paid Leave, and the MERIT retirement program have a direct impact on how businesses manage employees. Federal laws such as the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), Equal Pay Act, and Immigration Reform and Control Act also apply to nearly every business.

In addition, industry-specific rules—such as tipped employee compliance in restaurants or prevailing wage requirements in construction—add extra complexity. Our experts track these rules for you and make sure you know exactly what applies to your business.

How does Paper Trails help me stay in compliance?

Compliance isn’t just about fixing problems after they happen—it’s about staying ahead of them. Our team works to review your payroll practices to make sure everything aligns with current laws. We monitor changes at both the state and federal levels, provide timely updates, and explain how new rules will impact your business. By combining proactive education, ongoing resources, and direct expert guidance, we help you build compliance into your daily operations—so you’re always prepared and protected.

What resources do Paper Trails clients have access to?

As a Paper Trails client, you’re never left on your own to figure out compliance. You’ll have access to monthly webinars that cover timely payroll and HR topics, blog posts that break down complex laws in plain language, and a library of podcast episodes featuring real-world advice. We also provide guides, checklists, and sample policies to help you put compliance into practice. On top of that, we send timely alerts when new laws or regulations are enacted, so you never get caught off guard. Combined with direct access to our payroll and HR experts, these resources give you the tools and knowledge to keep your business prepared.

Do your services scale as my business grows?

Yes. Whether you’re a small business with five employees or a growing company with 200, our compliance services and software scale with you. As your workforce expands or your industry changes, we adjust your compliance strategy to make sure your payroll and HR processes stay accurate and legally sound. Larger teams often face more complex compliance issues, from multi-state payrolls to broader audit requirements, and we help you manage them step by step. With Paper Trails, you’ll have long-term support and peace of mind that compliance won’t hold your growth back.