The federal Department of Homeland Security has just issued a new version of the I-9 form.  It’s exactly the same as the 2007 version, other than the dates on the form show the one year extension to June 30, 2009. Begin using the new version now; the old version of the form will no longer be accepted. You can download the ‘new’ I-9 (English or Spanish version) here.  Keep in mind that while you may use the Spanish version as a translation guide for Spanish-speaking employees, you must complete the English version and keep it in your records.

Reacting to sky-high fuel prices, the Internal Revenue Service announced that the optional business mileage reimbursement rate will increase from 50.5 cents per mile to 58.5 cents per mile on July 1, 2008. The new rate is scheduled through the end of the year, December 31, 2008. Workers who use their vehicles for business can use this standard mileage rate or deduct their actual expenses on tax returns. Many employers use the IRS standard rate when reimbursing workers who use their cars on the job. Besides the business mileage rate, the IRS also increased the mileage rate for deductible medical or moving expenses to 27 cents a mile, up 8 cents. The rate for providing services for charitable organizations, which is set by Congress, remains at 14 cents a mile.

Illinois' minimum wage increases to $7.75 per hour on July 1, 2008.

Indiana's minimum wage increases to $6.55 per hour on July 24, 2008.