Employers usually offer a high deductible health plan (HDHP) or a preferred provider organization (PPO) as one of their healthcare benefits. Each has its pros and cons. However, offering both can ensure employees choose what fits their needs best, without having to sacrifice the company’s bottom line. This guide breaks down the differences and why you may […]

Healthcare premiums represent the financial backbone of health insurance. They’re the regular payments that policyholders make to maintain coverage. Healthcare premium affordability is a significant concern among policyholders, especially considering premiums are expected to increase by 7% in 2025. For employer groups who want to deliver exceptional value to members, understanding what constitutes an affordable premium […]

In 2021, 49% of adults in the United States with an income of less than $24,000 annually were “cost insecure” regarding healthcare affordability. Another 14% were considered “cost desperate.” Sixty percent of adults earning the same amount stated that healthcare costs contribute to their stress. It makes sense that healthcare benefits from employers remain attractive to prospective employees. However, […]

Rising medical costs are a top concern for employers, employees, and health plans. In response, cost containment in insurance steps up with programs, processes, and strategies designed to control or reduce healthcare spending without compromising care quality. Cost containment means offering employer groups and brokers a means of helping clients get the best value from […]

Knowing how to manage a Medical Expense Reimbursement Plan (MERP) in compliance with federal regulations is important for helping your clients maintain the financial benefits of the healthcare program. As an insurance broker, you should be up to date with the latest compliance rules associated with your MERP employer group plan. This comprehensive guide explores how […]

If you’ve been laid off or decided to leave your job, you may be wondering what will happen to your health savings account (HSA). Since you own the HSA, it’ll follow you wherever you go. This means you’ll still have your HSA, whether employed, unemployed, or switching jobs. Learn more about how to open an HSA and what happens to your […]

As healthcare costs rise, companies need options to help their employees afford quality care while minimizing employer expenses. Medical Expense Reimbursement Plans (MERP) are among the insurance producer’s most effective tools for creating win-win group coverage solutions, but they’re also among the most misunderstood healthcare products. Whether you want help understanding MERP products or explaining […]

Health insurance costs have been rising for years, and experts predict the trend will only continue. Many businesses are turning to other health insurance benefits, like self-funded health insurance plans and medical expense reimbursement plans (MERP)), to lower their spending. Self-funded and MERP products are both employer-sponsored health plans under Section 105 of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC). […]

Regulatory Compliance Services for Insurance With how quickly the insurance and regulatory landscape can change, it’s no wonder that insurance brokers sometimes struggle to stay compliant. If you’re in the same boat, it may be time to seek extra compliance help. One option many businesses and brokers use is insurance compliance services. Partnering with a […]

Health insurance is a major consideration for employees. Businesses looking to hire and retain the best talent need to offer competitive benefits to motivate their team. But how do you offer affordable healthcare without driving up your expenses? Insurance producers can provide businesses with alternative insurance packages to make it easier to offer their employees […]