A step-by-step guide for rebuilding when you’ve lost everything, or preparing before another disaster strikes.

The Maui wildfires devastated local companies, and for entrepreneurs and businesses that lost everything, rebuilding can be overwhelming. Here’s what owners and HR departments should know before and after disaster strikes.

As a general rule, always safeguard vital records, including accounting and staff data and customer and inventory lists, by storing them in the cloud with a trusted service. Alternatively, create backups of essential files, ensuring they’re also uploaded to the cloud for easy access if you cannot reach the office.

Here is a brief guide on reconstructing essential HR files and continuing employer responsibilities during this difficult period.

Essential HR Files to Reconstruct

1. Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification: This form is mandatory for every employee. Lost or damaged forms must be replaced as quickly as possible. If files are lost, reverification must be done for each affected employee. Learn more at tinyurl.com/FormsI9.
2. W-4 Forms: Employees need to complete this form to determine tax withholding. More information at tinyurl.com/FormsW4 and tinyurl.com/StateHW4.
3. Employee Contracts and Agreements: Consult with employees to obtain backup copies of contracts and agreements. If no backup exists, consult legal counsel to help reconstruct the documents. Payroll records, tax submissions and other financial documents (if they exist) can...

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