Did you realize that as a New Mexico employer, you have obligations outside of federal regulations on wage? For example, in the state of New Mexico, though you can encourage the employee to use Direct Deposit, you can’t require it. You must also have written authorization to deposit an employee’s paychecks through direct deposit. In addition, you’re required to have written authorization for deductions. How often you pay the employee is also governed by state law. What risks do you run when you do automatic deductions for lunch? While New Mexico does not require that a lunch period is given, there are certain requirements regarding the length of an unpaid lunch period when you do give it. How must you handle accrued paid time off at time of separation? Are breaks required? What you don’t know can negatively impact your organization.

As a small business owner, it is understandable that you may not know every applicable wage law. However, you are still held liable for ensuring that your organization’s Human Resources practices are in compliance. At Southwestern HR Consulting (SWHRC) we’re here to help. We can provide you with guidance from our team of experts, so you don’t have to become an HR expert. Contact us today!

Written by | Magdalena Vigil-Tullar

HR Consultant | MBA, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, CLRP

Phone: 505-270-7494 | Email: magdalena@swhrc.com

PO Box 14274 | Albuquerque, NM 87191