Employee Handbook Services
An employee handbook does more than outline policies. It also sets clear expectations, explains important employment laws, and may provide protection in potential disputes.
The Paychex Employee Handbook Builder makes this process simple:
- Policies in alignment with changing federal and state laws
- Accurately reflect your company's unique culture
- Work with expert-reviewed content that can help reduce legal risks
Build Your Custom Handbook
Our Employee Handbook Builder automates creation and maintenance; giving you everything you need to create professional, compliant handbooks.
Build It Your Way
Answer some questions and let the platform generate your handbook automatically, or customize attorney-vetted policies to fit your specific business needs
Attorney-Vetted Policies
Work with legally reviewed content consistent with federal and state requirements, with specialized support for multi-state handbooks
AI-Powered Compliance
Get intelligent suggestions on where to apply legal updates in your handbook, plus access to an AI chatbot that responds to your employment law-related questions in plain language
Automated Updates
Receive alerts about policy changes and update your handbook with one click through our integrated HR library
Handbook Services Included With Your Plan
Get professional handbook creation at no extra cost. The Employee Handbook Builder comes standard with most Paychex packages, so you can establish clear policies and protect your business from day one. Not sure which package is right for you? Explore your options and find the perfect fit for your business needs.
Three Simple Steps To Get Started
Build Your Handbook
Quickly and easily create your handbook with legally reviewed, customizable policies designed to fit your business.
Keep It Current
Share your finished handbook with employees and count on Paychex for updates and support with the option to add dedicated support.
Solutions That Work Better Together
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FAQs on Employee Handbooks
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What Should You Include in an Employee Handbook?
What Should You Include in an Employee Handbook?
An effective employee handbook should include your company's mission, values, and culture, plus legally reviewed policies covering harassment, discrimination, workplace safety, attendance, leave, compensation, benefits, code of conduct, and disciplinary procedures.
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What Should an Employee Handbook Not Include?
What Should an Employee Handbook Not Include?
Avoid language that contradicts at-will employment, including terms like "permanent employee," "probationary period," or "just cause termination."
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Does an Employer Have To Provide a Handbook?
Does an Employer Have To Provide a Handbook?
No federal or state law requires an employee handbook. However, certain policies may be required to be communicated to employees in writing — such as harassment policies, safety procedures, and legally mandated notices under FMLA, and certain state requirements.
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What Is an Employee Handbook Used For?
What Is an Employee Handbook Used For?
An employee handbook communicates company culture and values, establishes workplace expectations, outlines employee rights and benefits, may help to document compliance with certain employment law requirements and provide legal protection during disputes, helps ensure consistent policy enforcement, and serves as an onboarding tool for new hires.
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Why Is an Employee Handbook Important?
Why Is an Employee Handbook Important?
Employee handbooks are critical to a strong legal compliance and risk management program. They help document required policies like anti-harassment procedures and workplace safety protocols, can help provide legal protection during disputes, support consistent policy application, and reduce miscommunication.
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What Is the difference between an employee handbook and policy manual?
What Is the difference between an employee handbook and policy manual?
Audience. An employee handbook is written for employees. A policy manual is intended for to be used by managers as a reference tool.
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What Is the Difference Between an Employee Handbook and Policy Manual?
What Is the Difference Between an Employee Handbook and Policy Manual?
An employee handbook is written for all employees in accessible language, covering company culture, benefits, and general workplace policies. A policy manual is generally considered a reference tool for managers and HR staff, containing detailed procedures, compliance guidelines, and step-by-step instructions for handling HR situations like investigations and terminations.
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What Is Legally Required in an Employee Handbook?
What Is Legally Required in an Employee Handbook?
Content that employers are legally required to share with employees varies by state, industry, and company size. Common requirements may include Equal Employment Opportunity statements, anti-harassment policies, FMLA leave information, ADA accommodations, wage and hour details, workplace safety, and workers' compensation. The Paychex Employee Handbook Builder automatically recommends federal and state policies for your location, helping you ensure compliance without complex legal research.
