The self-employed and Social Security

Self-employed individuals need to pay monthly advances towards their Social Security payments. Many times their accountant will get the advances reduced or stop them altogether. While this may seem normal, it may seriously deprive the self-employed individual with regard to compensation from Social Security in case of a work-related accident. Recently, a self-employed individual sued …

labor court, scare tactics and lawyers fees

In many case where an employee or former employee sues his employer in labor court, the employer’s lawyers will try to reach a settlement by offering less than is actually owed, by using scare tactics. They will tell the employee that if the case reaches court they will ask for reimbersement of legal fees, “which …

The common denominator of Israeli employees

Over the years I have seen just about everything in Israeli payroll. I have worked for many different clients and come across every type of employer you could think of. There were those who were willing to pay a lot for things to get done as long as they didn’t have to deal with any …

Why do I need recomendations ?

o.k. let’s face it, everyone likes to be complimented. It’s part of human nature. And when we do a good job, we have earned the praise. After a while it’s usually forgotten. When an employee is terminated, in most cases they are not going to get a recommendation letter, so it is always good practice …

Is bereavement leave mandatory ?

Well, here’s the thing. As strange as this sounds, there is no law that forces employers to pay employees who were on bereavement leave for family members. Now, most employers in the private sector are sympathetic and will pay the days in full even thought they may not be obligated to by law.  An employee’s …

Tax reduction for university graduates

If you completed higher education or vocational training at a recognized university or college in Israel from 2008 and onwards, you may be eligible for a reduction in taxes. You need to fill out a 119 tax form and attach a photocopy of the degree / certificate as well as a letter from the academic institution, which …

What happens to my unused vacation days ?

So, what actually happens to your unused vacation days ? It really depends on the employer’s policy and whether you are continuing to work for the same employer. The vacation days are annual, but are actually credited each month proportionate to the actual hours worked (full – part time) Too bad you can’t save up …

What can happen when an employer fires a pregnant woman

This is a true story. The names have been changed for obvious reasons. In 2004, Sharon was hired as a temp replacement. She was well liked and did her job to the employer’s satisfaction. 2 days before completion of 6 month’s tenure, it became known to the employer that Sharon was pregnant. She was fired …

What days cannot be included in employee’s vacation ?

All employees are entitled to vacation days according to law. This is mandatory for all employers in Israel. The Annual Vacation law specifically states in paragraph 5 the days that shall not be counted as an employee’s annual vacation days:1) Holidays (days that are not work days because of the holiday, but would have been …

Employee’s Rights Handbook

Soon to be released ! The first ever English language Employee’s Rights Handbook ! This comprehensive guide explains in layman’s terms the makeup of the Israeli payslip, how to read it, explained are the basic labor laws, sick leave pay, vacation, protection of salary, severance pay, women’s employment, overtime, minimum wage, youth employment, work and …