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. […]

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). […]

An enterprise technology firm with over 200 employees was recently confronted with a staggering +35% renewal increase from their health insurance carrier, Medical Mutual of Ohio. This proposed rate hike would have added $800,000 to the company’s annual healthcare expenses—an increase the employer simply couldn’t absorb within their existing budget. In search of a more […]

Understanding PCORI Fees for Self-Insured Health Plans 2025 PCORI (Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute) Fees The applicable dollar amount for plan years ending on or after October 1, 2024, and before October 1, 2025, the tax is equal to $3.47. This is a .25 increase from the $3.22 rate in 2024. Fees are reported and paid […]

At Difference Card, we take pride in recognizing outstanding brokers who go above and beyond in providing innovative benefits solutions to their clients. This month, we’re excited to shine the spotlight on Juan Martinez, a seasoned benefits consultant with USI in the Los Angeles, California market. A Passion for Client Success  With over a decade […]

An online continuing education provider faced a 9% renewal increase from their health insurance carrier, Aetna, for March 2025. This growing organization has 31 enrolled employees across multiple locations nationwide. The company sought an innovative solution to enhance its health benefits while simultaneously reducing costs. Additionally, they needed a comprehensive payroll and human resources management […]