Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Professional Employer Organization (PEO)?
A PEO is a co-partner and works like an off-site HR department to provide cost-effective outsourcing of human resource services. The PEO legally co-employs its client’s personnel, creating a three-way relationship between the PEO, the client company, and its employees. In doing so, the PEO provides small and mid-size companies access to a strategically-leveraged, fully scalable, integrated HR department that delivers a vast array of quality services and benefits while mitigating employer-related liabilities.
Is Tilson a Professional Employer Organization (PEO)?
Yes…and, no. Tilson started as a PEO company more than a decade ago. Since its inception, however, Tilson has continually expanded its service offerings and become a leading provider of many types of human resources support to small to mid-size companies.
What is Human Resources Outsourcing (HRO)?
HRO entails the transfer of one or more human resources processes and/or activities to an external provider that, in turn, owns, administers, and manages these processes and/or activities.
Is My Company Required to be in a PEO Relationship with Tilson to Gain Access to Your Service Offerings?
No. We recognize that while the PEO employment structure can offer tremendous value, it isn’t the only solution for all situations. Many of our services, such as regulatory compliance reviews, compensation studies, health and welfare benefit design, training and skills assessment, and performance management, are consultative in nature and available to all companies on an “a la carte” basis. We work with managers at each company to determine and deliver the best solution for them – PEO or otherwise.
If My Company Enters Into a PEO Relationship with Tilson, Do I Have Flexibility to Select Benefit Vendors That Best Fit Our Needs?
Yes. Unlike many “pure-play” PEO companies, Tilson offers great flexibility. We do not force you to utilize our various benefits providers. Instead, we listen carefully to understand your needs and then work closely with you to design a benefits package that is best suited to meeting those needs. This means that you are in control and have the option of selecting from our alliance partners or your own vendors for items such as health, dental, vision, life, 401(k), and workers’ compensation insurance.
Is Tilson a Recruiting Firm or Temporary Staffing Agency?
No. Tilson is an HRO company. As such, our service offerings focus on the broader human resources needs of companies, only a small part of which may be recruiting or staffing. While we can, and often do, assist clients with their recruiting needs on a project basis, we are not in the business of staffing.
How Does Tilson Charge for Its Services?
Our PEO services are customarily charged on a flat fee basis. Tilson human resources consulting services are based on our professional hourly rates structure or a pre-negotiated fee. Our easy-to-understand fee arrangements are disclosed to you upfront, so that there are no surprises.
How Quickly Can My Company Become Part of Tilson’s PEO?
Using our proven methodology, we are generally able to transition a company having 100 employees or less within 60 days. Smaller companies take less time; larger companies take more. We co-develop a transition plan and timeline with you before any work begins to ensure a smooth transition process for you and your employees.
My Company Has a Small Number of Employees. Does Tilson Serve Companies My Size?
Yes. Our existing clients range in size from one employee to hundreds of employees. Since our service offerings are fully scalable, we can provide them efficiently and cost effectively to companies ranging in size from 1 to 1,000 employees.
What Is Your Average PEO Client Retention Rate?
95% to 97% - excluding client companies that have failed, been acquired, or elected to manage their HR needs in-house. Of those clients that have terminated their relationship with us, only 1% chose to utilize a competing firm.
What Should I Consider in Selecting a PEO Provider?
- A solid financial background.
- The depth and breadth of skills possessed by the PEO personnel that will serve you and your worksite employees.
- A proven record in customer service.
- Flexibility to select benefits providers that best meet your company’s needs.
- The agility to meet your evolving needs, not theirs.
- The PEO is a member in good standing with the National Association of Professional Employer Organizations (NAPEO), which requires as part of membership a steadfast commitment to professional development and the association’s Code of Ethics.
- All responsibilities and liabilities are clearly disclosed in a client service agreement between the respective parties, including fees and termination rights.
- The PEO is currently licensed or registered, as required, in all states in which the parties transact business.
What Is the Best Method for Contacting You?
Simply click on the “Contact Us” link provided at the top of this page, complete the information request form, and then click the “Submit” button. One of our professional staff will contact you within 48 hours of receiving your information. It’s that easy! If you prefer, you may call our office and request to speak with one of our sales associates.

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