Tax Benefits of a MERP Employer-sponsored healthcare costs increase year after year, putting pressure on businesses of every size. Many employers want to offer competitive health benefits without taking on steadily rising costs, and a Medical Expense Reimbursement Plan (MERP) offers just that, an employer-funded benefit that reimburses employees for eligible out-of-pocket medical expenses. Beyond helping employees […]

Healthcare benefits are changing, placing employers in a tough position. With employer-sponsored insurance covering 154 million Americans, benefits are a critical part of employee compensation. Average family premiums reached almost $27,000 in 2025, up 6% from the previous year. The challenge as an employer? Keeping costs down while staying competitive. The projected medical cost trend is expected […]

Rising healthcare costs are a concern for both employers and employees. As brokers, your offerings impact whether a company can optimize its budget and whether an employee can opt for affordable care. A medical expense reimbursement plan (MERP) is a flexible solution that can enable both scenarios. You only need to explain how MERP works and […]

In the U.S., healthcare costs are rising faster than inflation, with health spending reaching $4.9 trillion in 2022 alone. Small business owners experience climbing premiums, while employees struggle with out-of-pocket costs. Failing to navigate complex tax laws correctly can lead to missing significant savings. The Internal Revenue Code’s (IRC) Section 105 offers a good solution. Different plan structures […]

Healthcare costs continue to climb. These price jumps put pressure on you, as an employer, to make difficult decisions about your benefits strategy. The traditional approach has been straightforward, with group health insurance with fixed premiums and standardized coverage being the norm. As costs rise, more organizations are exploring cost-saving strategies such as high-deductible health […]

A medical expense reimbursement plan (MERP) offers many benefits to employers and employees. Employers can lower healthcare costs and adjust their plans each year, while employees can still get the right level of care. However, as single and family coverage premiums rise, organizations have been forced to explore structurally sound solutions to this issue. A […]

The cost of health insurance can have a significant impact on small businesses. Finding a comfortable balance between keeping costs down and providing the healthcare benefits your employees deserve is essential for employee retention. Introducing strategic funding is a viable way to pay for healthcare benefits rather than high-priced insurance plans. This guide explains how […]

In 2024, the average annual premiums for employer-sponsored health insurance cost $8,951 for single coverage, a 6% rise from the previous year. For family coverage, this figure was $25,572, 7% higher than the previous year. This trend of rising medical costs looks set to continue into 2026. Considering these price increases, it’s not surprising that many employers […]

Insurance brokers are essential in helping employer clients navigate the complex world of health insurance benefits. Employers will want to offer competitive benefits that attract and retain top talent while benefiting the business. Understanding the nuanced difference between a Medical Expense Reimbursement Plan (MERP) and an Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangement (ICHRA) will help you […]

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 […]