Healthcare benefits are nonnegotiable for employers who want to attract and retain qualified employees in a competitive labor market. For a long time, traditional group health insurance was the primary option employers had for providing health benefits to employees. However, rising healthcare costs and other factors have necessitated alternatives, such as the Individual Coverage Health […]

Though traditional employer-sponsored health insurance benefits can be complicated and costly, the Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangement offers a flexible alternative. It allows employers to provide personalized healthcare coverage without the limitations of traditional group plans. ICHRA adoption has steadily increased since these plans became available in 2020. Usage rose by 29% between 2023 and 2024, with […]

As healthcare costs continue to rise, employers, employees, and healthcare insurance brokers are continually seeking the best healthcare benefits solutions. In every case, this means a healthcare plan that’s cost-effective and provides the necessary coverage for employees. The Difference Card already provides that solution to many businesses, and is ready to help even more employers, employees, […]

With rising healthcare costs, small business owners are looking to provide competitive health benefits while managing tight budgets. The Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangement (ICHRA) is one innovative solution gaining popularity for its flexibility and the cost control it affords to employers. This guide lays out the pros and cons of ICHRA solutions so you […]

Offering healthcare benefits is essential in staying competitive. In 2025, 88% of employers consider them as very or extremely important. However, a significant health insurance cost increase is expected in 2026 and beyond, posing a challenge for employers and brokers alike. Employers may need to adjust their budgets without sacrificing the needs of their employees, and brokers need to […]

Gap health insurance coverage helps members pay for out-of-pocket costs under a comprehensive health insurance plan, which is usually a high-deductible health plan (HDHP). It also offers a financial safety net for employees before primary coverage begins. That said, this supplementary insurance plan has limitations. This article explains what gap insurance is, how it works, and […]

In 2023, about 60% of people under 65 years old had employer-sponsored health insurance (ESI). However, even though ESI has been the largest source of health benefits for younger Americans, there is still uneven coverage that employers and brokers need to address. Through an individual coverage health reimbursement arrangement (ICHRA), employers can help provide more appropriate healthcare […]

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires employers with over 50 employees to provide specific healthcare benefits, although smaller employers may also do so. Employees can opt for these benefits during open enrollment. There is a set schedule at the federal level. However, some states have their own schedules if they have their own healthcare Marketplaces. Whether open enrollment […]

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 […]

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 […]