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What are PCORI Fees?
Understanding PCORI Fees for Self-Insured Health Plans 2026 PCORI (Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute) Fees The applicable dollar amount for plan years ending on or after October 1, 2025, and before October 1, 2026, the tax is equal to $3.84. This…
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Insurance Trends 2026: A Broker’s Guide to Strategic Advantage
The insurance industry has evolved over the years. Insurance providers and brokers must know the trends and continuously adjust operations to meet the market demands and navigate the complexity of the current insurance landscape. The insurance industry is entering an era…
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What Is an ICHRA?
Every renewal season feels the same. Your broker provides new rates, premiums have increased again, and you’re left deciding whether to absorb the cost or ask employees to contribute more. But what if you could break that cycle? An Individual…
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Broker of the Month: Emily Sanchez with Gallagher Benefit Services in Houston, Texas
Gallagher Benefit Services | Houston, Texas At the Difference Card, we are proud to recognize brokers and consultants who go above and beyond to help employers solve rising healthcare costs while improving the employee experience. This month, we are excited…
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Retail Sports Entertainment Employer Saves $650,000 with the Difference Card MERP Strategy
A growing retail sports entertainment company with a global presence and locations throughout the Southwest entered their May 2026 health insurance renewal cycle facing a major financial challenge. With 240 employees enrolled in their medical plan, the organization received a…
Read MoreAt The Difference Card, we are proud to recognize brokers who lead with innovation, discipline, and a true commitment to improving healthcare outcomes. This year, we are thrilled to honor Kristen Harder of HUB International San Antonio as our 2025…
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How to Use Provider Lookup Tools to Enhance Healthcare Quality
Provider directories play a role in managing healthcare quality and cost. With reliable data, patients can confidently schedule appointments with in-network doctors, and brokers can recommend plans that truly serve their clients. In contrast, inaccurate provider directories create serious risks,…
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Why You Should Leverage a MERP for Your Clients
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…
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How Section 105 Medical Reimbursement Plans Save on Taxes
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…
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MERP vs. Traditional Health Insurance
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…
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