Open enrollment season may be (or almost) over, but it’s just the beginning of an essential phase in employee benefits management: ensuring that employees actually use and benefit from the coverage they’ve chosen. This is especially important now, considering that projections show that the cost of employee benefits will continue to rise yearly. Effective utilization...Read More

Executives drive a company’s strategic vision, manage risks, and steer the company through growth and challenges. However, a significant gap exists in how these high-level leaders protect themselves against potential personal risks, specifically the risk of disability. Executive disability insurance is often an overlooked or underfunded area, leaving many key individuals underinsured and vulnerable to...Read More

For many businesses, Human Resources (HR) has traditionally focused on administrative tasks such as payroll, compliance, and managing employee benefits. While these functions are critical, they often limit HR’s ability to act as a strategic partner in driving organizational growth. Transforming HR from an administrative support function into a strategic force can help businesses attract...Read More

When the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (the “CAA”) was enacted on December 27, 2020, it included a provision that prohibits group health plans and health insurance carriers from entering into certain agreements that, either directly or indirectly, restrict the release of certain information related to provider networks and de-identified encounter data, among other things. Such...Read More

On September 9, 2024, the DOL, IRS, and HHS released a final rule for the Requirements Related to the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (The “MHPAEA Final Rule”).  The MHPAEA Final Rule is similar to the Proposed Rule released on July 25, 2023, with some marked differences.  While the MHPAEA Final Rule is...Read More

On October 22, 2024, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) released Revenue Procedure 2024-40, which increases the health flexible spending account (FSA) salary reduction contribution limit to $3,300 for plan years beginning in 2025, an increase of $100 from 2024.  Thus, for health FSAs with a carryover feature, the maximum carryover amount is $660 (20% of...Read More

Employers are increasingly aware of the need to provide flexible and comprehensive health benefits to attract and retain top talent. While offering multiple health plan options may seem like an added expense, it can actually lead to significant cost savings for companies in the long run. By catering to the diverse needs of employees, employers...Read More

The world of employee benefits can be both complex and overwhelming. With a myriad of options available, selecting the right insurance broker is crucial for creating a benefits program that not only attracts and retains top talent but also aligns with your organization’s goals. A proficient broker goes beyond merely selling insurance; they act as...Read More

High-Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs) have gained traction among both employers and employees – do you want to know why? At a glance, these plans offer a unique blend of cost savings and incentives for proactive health management, making them an attractive option for those looking to balance healthcare expenses and coverage. However, that’s not all....Read More

Businesses are increasingly leveraging data analytics to revolutionize their wellness programs and elevate population health management. By collaborating with employee benefits consultants, HR departments harness data-driven insights to understand employee health trends better, pinpoint potential risks, and craft tailored interventions that promote overall well-being. This proactive strategy allows HR teams to design more personalized and...Read More