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 […]

A biotechnology company based in metropolitan Boston, employing over 200 people, sought to reduce their escalating health insurance expenses while enhancing employee benefits. Facing more than $4 million annually in fully insured premiums across four health plan options, the company turned to its insurance consulting firm for a strategic solution. To tackle the challenge, the […]

HSA account holders are now able to contribute more money to their HSA. The HSA contributions limits are adjusted for inflation each year, and HSA annual limits are released every April or May by the IRS. HSA Contribution Limits The HSA contribution limits for 2026 have been adjusted to reflect the cost of living changes. […]

Understanding the Relationship Between Economics and Insurance Economics has more impact on insurance and the healthcare system than you’d expect. Everything from policy premiums to market adjustments stems from the economic conditions. Whether we’re in a recession or working with a new government administration, economics shift and directly impact our insurance market. In 2023, 92% […]

At The Difference Card, we are proud to shine a light on the brokers who go above and beyond to bring meaningful, cost-effective benefits solutions to their clients. This month, we are excited to feature Steve Brazinski of Anderson & Kime Employee Benefits Inc., located in the heart of Ridgway, Pennsylvania. A Legacy of Trust and […]

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). […]

Spring is in the air, and Easter is just around the corner! As you prepare to fill your basket with treats and treasures, have you considered whether you and your clients are making the most of your savings? Just like a well-planned Easter egg hunt, discovering cost-saving strategies requires the right approach. With The Difference […]