Free download · Updated for 2026
The California Benefits Compliance Checklist
One printable PDF covering every state and federal box a CA employer has to check — from SDI and Paid Sick Leave to ACA reporting, ERISA wrap docs, and Section 125. Built from 20+ years of renewals by the Blue Ocean bench.
- State-mandated programs: SDI, PFL, Paid Sick Leave, CalSavers
- ACA employer mandate: ALE test, affordability, 1094-C / 1095-C, CA FTB filings
- ERISA wrap docs, Form 5500, SBC & SAR distribution
- Required notices: Medicare Part D, CHIP, HIPAA, Marketplace, COBRA
- COBRA & Cal-COBRA administration timing
- Section 125 cafeteria plan + FSA / HSA / HRA / commuter
- CFRA, PDL, FMLA, PFL, bereavement & reproductive-loss leave interplay
- Renewal hygiene for 1–500 employee groups
Independent CA agency
San Juan Capistrano — 20+ years advising employers.
Built for HR & Finance
Every item maps to a filing, a notice, or a plan document.
One bench, three companies
Benefits + Payroll + PEO Consulting — coordinated by design.
Keep reading
CA Required Benefits Guide
The full plain-English walkthrough behind the checklist.
Read the guideCA Benefits Market
Why "shopping brokers" doesn't move California employer group rates — and what does.
See how it worksPEO Consulting
When a PEO fits — and when it doesn't. Independent evaluation.
Explore PEO fit