Employee leasing can offer advantages to small business owners. Instead of directly hiring workers, the client company hires the services of a professional employee leasing organization. Also known as a professional employer organization (PEO), the leasing agency oversees everything from recruitment to HR administration.

With employee leasing, small businesses can save on payroll management, tax management, and other HR responsibilities. Using a leasing company can free up resources, allowing small business owners to focus on their strengths and increase efficiency.

Employee leasing agencies specializing in workforce management are often large organizations, enables small business clients to benefit from the economies of scale. Because of their large-scale operations, these agencies can easily offer features such as online account access and automatic payroll deposit.

An employee leasing arrangement can free the client company from the risks associated with direct hires. The fact that the third party leasing agency is the official employer of record and specializes in employee management considerably brings down HR risks for the client company.

Before entering into an employee leasing arrangement, make sure the organization has a good track record with other small business owners. Do they make all payroll tax deposits on time? Have you seen documentation of liability insurance? Check into the background of the leasing company. Do they have experience related to your business? Do they offer references for your review? Carefully review all contracts before entering into any agreements.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website offers more information on leased employees and other associated terms.  For more information on determining joint-employer status, please consult the Department of Labor (DOL) website.