Insurance Carrier News – Page 2 – Total Benefit Solutions Inc

Alert: Chicago Employers, Brace for Paid Leave Shifts in 2024

December 29, 2023January 3, 2024Wendy Lopez

In a recent development, the Chicago City Council has made significant changes to the Paid Leave, Paid Sick, and Safe Leave Ordinance, pushing the effective date from December 31, 2023, to July 1, 2024. This delay provides employers with additional time to adapt to the impending modifications. Key amendments include a redefined “Covered Employee,” now requiring a minimum of 80 hours worked within any 120-day period in the city. Employers must communicate their time-off policies in writing, emphasizing clarity in the primary language of each Covered Employee. Medium-sized employers benefit from a partial payout period extension until July 1, 2025, allowing more time for adjustment. Additionally, irrespective of Covered Employee… Read More

Case Study: Achieving Success Through Broker Change

December 19, 2023December 19, 2023Wendy Lopez

In the dynamic landscape of employee benefits, staying complacent can hinder progress and cost an organization significant financial resource. At Total Benefit Solutions, we take pride in our proactive approach to addressing complex employee benefit challenges. In this blog post, we highlight a case study that exemplifies our commitment to providing innovative solutions and delivering tangible results for our clients. Broker Change Leads to Better Results The Challenge: A mid-sized group prospect approached us with a pressing issue – dissatisfaction with their current benefits broker. Faced with a 17% health insurance renewal, the client felt that their existing broker was not adequately exploring cost containment strategies. Seeking guidance, they turned… Read More

House Passes Health Care Transparency Law

December 18, 2023December 15, 2023Wendy Lopez

In a significant move towards increased transparency and cost reduction in the healthcare sector, the U.S. House of Representatives voted 320-71 to pass the Lower Costs, More Transparency Act on December 11, 2023. The bipartisan legislation aims to address the pressing issue of rising healthcare costs by implementing crucial changes, particularly affecting employers sponsoring group health plans. Transparency in Coverage Regulations The bill codifies existing transparency in coverage regulations, requiring the posting of machine-readable files (MRF) and making certain cost information available. Notably, changes include specific timing for posting the MRF, scheduled for the 10th day of each month. If enacted, this provision would come into effect for the first… Read More

Decisions for someone who is nearing age 65

December 12, 2023December 12, 2023Ed MacConnell

As you near age 65, you need to learn about Medicare coverage choices and make several important enrollment decisions. This fact sheet will give you a list of the steps you shouldtake and tell you about resources to help you make your Medicare enrollment decisions. There can be penalties if you do not enroll on time, so it is best to complete these tasksat least 3 months BEFORE you turn 65. Please note you can enroll on Medicare Parts A & B with Medicare about 90 days before your 65th birthday. IF YOU ARE STILL WORKING and your company has less than 20 employees you still MUST enroll on Medicare… Read More

DOL Settlements Prompt Life Insurance Carriers to Adopt Claim Reforms

December 8, 2023December 8, 2023Wendy Lopez

Recent settlements between the Department of Labor (DOL) and major life insurance carriers have brought attention to the denial of claims due to missing evidence of insurability (EOI). These agreements spotlight the potential liabilities faced by carriers and employers even after collecting employee premiums for coverage. Employers commonly offer basic life insurance coverage without charge, while employees can purchase additional coverage through payroll deductions. Approval for supplemental coverage often depends on carriers accepting evidence of insurability (EOI) submitted by the insured individual. DOL Investigations: The DOL’s investigations revealed that carriers, such as Prudential and United, consistently denied claims for missing EOIs despite collecting premiums. Employers, tasked with collecting EOIs and… Read More

2024 Benefits Breakdown: Your Wallet Will Thank You!

December 7, 2023December 7, 2023Wendy Lopez

As we step into the new year, the IRS has unveiled the much-anticipated cost of living adjustments for 2024 under various provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. These adjustments bring changes that may impact your employee benefit plans. Let’s delve into some key areas affected by these adjustments. Cafeteria Plans – Health Flexible Spending Arrangements: For plan years beginning in 2024, the annual contribution limitation under Code Section 125(i) for voluntary employee salary reductions to health flexible spending arrangements (health FSAs) has increased to $3,200 from $3,050. Additionally, for plans allowing the carryover option, the maximum unused amount from a health FSA plan year that begins in 2024 and can… Read More

Massachusetts Paid Family and Medical Leave Updates for 2024

November 7, 2023November 7, 2023Wendy Lopez

The Massachusetts Department of Family and Medical Leave (DFML) has announced significant changes to the Massachusetts Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program, effective January 1, 2024. These updates include adjustments to the contribution rate, State Average Weekly Wage, and maximum weekly benefit amount. Employees can also supplement their PFML benefits with accrued paid leave, beginning on November 1, 2023. Contribution Rate Changes In 2024, the contribution rate on eligible wages will increase from 0.63% in 2023 to 0.88%. Individual contributions are capped by the Social Security income limit, which is expected to rise significantly. Employer and Employee Contributions Employers with a minimum of 25 covered individuals in Massachusetts will… Read More

Open Enrollment 2023: Key Reminders and Deadline

November 6, 2023November 6, 2023Wendy Lopez

Are you ready for Open Enrollment? If not, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with all the key information you need to make the most of this opportunity to secure health coverage for you and your loved ones. Open Enrollment for 2023 is just around the corner, beginning on November 1. However, it’s crucial to mark your calendars with the DEADLINE REMINDER: December 15th is the last day to enroll for coverage that kicks in on January 1st. For current Pennie customers, here are some important reminders: For those who are potential Pennie customers, here’s what you need to know: Why choose Pennie for your health coverage? Pennie offers… Read More

Updated No Surprises Act and IDR Guidance

November 3, 2023November 6, 2023Wendy Lopez

Recent developments in healthcare legislation have brought changes to the No Surprises Act’s independent dispute resolution (IDR) process. Issued by the Departments of Labor, the Treasury, and Health and Human Services (HHS), FAQ Part 62 provides essential updates regarding the qualifying payment amount (QPA) calculation methodology and the disclosure requirements for out-of-network (OON) air ambulance services. Moreover, the federal IDR portal has reopened, streamlining the resolution of billing disputes. The No Surprises Act Overview The No Surprises Act, a part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, aims to protect patients from surprise medical bills. It places limits on out-of-network cost-sharing and bans balance billing in various situations, such as emergency… Read More

New Federal Rules: HHS 2023 Penalty Hike

October 25, 2023October 25, 2023Wendy Lopez

In the world of healthcare compliance, staying up to date with federal regulations and guidelines is crucial to avoid costly penalties. One such regulation that affects healthcare providers and group health plans is the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act Improvements Act of 2015, commonly known as the “Inflation Adjustment Act.” This act directs federal agencies to adjust civil monetary penalties to account for inflation. In a recent development, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued final rules on October 6, 2023, updating the civil monetary penalties for inflation. Understanding the Updated Penalties The adjusted penalties are applicable to penalties assessed on or after October 6, 2023. It’s… Read More

Affordable Dental Insurance: A Key Player in Oral Health

October 20, 2023October 20, 2023Wendy Lopez

Dental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, and a recent survey has shed light on the satisfaction levels of Americans with their dental insurance plans. The results, published in a press release by AHIP (America’s Health Insurance Plans) on September 26, 2023, provide an insightful perspective on the state of dental insurance in the United States. The survey, conducted by Global Strategy Group (GSG) on behalf of AHIP, focused on individuals who have dental insurance and have visited dental specialists, including dentists, oral surgeons, and orthodontists, in the past year. The findings from the survey paint a positive picture of Americans’ experiences with their dental insurance plans. Key… Read More

Financial Support Soars for Mental Health Integration

October 19, 2023October 19, 2023Wendy Lopez

Mental health is an essential component of overall well-being, and every American deserves access to quality mental health and substance use disorder treatment. Access to mental health care can be a transformative step in managing and coping with mental health concerns, allowing individuals to lead more fulfilling lives. This article explores the importance of integrating mental health services into other care settings and highlights the Collaborative Care Model (CoCM) as a promising approach to enhance access to mental health care. Expanding Access Through Integration Integrating mental health into broader healthcare settings is a pivotal strategy to increase accessibility and support for patients. The Collaborative Care Model, often abbreviated as CoCM,… Read More

2023 Rule Alert: How Will It Affect Fixed Indemnity Plans?

October 13, 2023October 13, 2023Wendy Lopez

In today’s world, the rising costs of healthcare have left many Americans grappling with the financial burden of medical expenses. While comprehensive health insurance is essential, fixed indemnity health insurance has emerged as a valuable supplemental resource, offering financial protection to individuals when they need it the most. This blog explores the concept of fixed indemnity health insurance and its importance in providing financial peace of mind to Americans. Fixed Indemnity Insurance: This supplemental insurance differs from major medical plans. It pays a fixed sum directly to you when specific medical events, like doctor visits or hospital stays, occur. While it doesn’t cover all the essential health benefits mandated by… Read More

The Value of Employee Health Benefits

October 12, 2023October 12, 2023Wendy Lopez

In today’s world, where healthcare costs can be a significant burden on individuals and families, employer-provided health coverage stands out as a vital resource. More than half of all Americans – over 180 million hardworking individuals and their families – rely on their jobs to secure access to healthcare. In this blog, we’ll explore the invaluable benefits of employer-provided coverage and how it offers affordable access to care, improved health, and peace of mind. Affordable Access to Care Healthcare expenses can quickly add up, and without insurance, it can be a daunting task to manage them. However, for millions of Americans, the path to affordable healthcare begins with their employers.… Read More

Medicaid Redetermination Updates: Your Next Steps

October 10, 2023October 10, 2023Wendy Lopez

The COVID-19 emergency has reshaped our lives in numerous ways since its onset in 2020. As we emerge from this challenging period, it’s crucial to stay informed about the changing landscape of healthcare programs, specifically Medicaid and CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program). The government is resuming its yearly process of Medicaid Redetermination to ensure that those who need these programs the most can continue to benefit from them. What is Medicaid Redetermination? Medicaid Redetermination is the process by which the government verifies the eligibility of individuals enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP. This procedure is vital to keep Medicaid strong and functional while ensuring that resources are allocated to those who… Read More

Medicare Supplement Insights: Protecting Your Wallet

October 9, 2023October 9, 2023Wendy Lopez

In a world where healthcare costs are a growing concern for many, Medicare Supplement coverage has emerged as a reliable solution to bridge the gaps in original Medicare. As we delve into the latest data from 2021, including insights from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), the California Department of Managed Health Care, and the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey (MCBS) from 2020, a compelling narrative about the significance of Medicare Supplement plans unfolds. Key Takeaways: 1. A Majority Embrace Medicare Supplement: In 2020, a staggering 54% of original Medicare enrollees without additional insurance coverage, such as Medicaid or employer-provided insurance, turned to Medicare Supplement policies for added peace of… Read More

2024 Healthcare Premiums Revealed: The Impact Factors

October 4, 2023October 4, 2023Wendy Lopez

The American Health Insurance Providers (AHIP) Association is committed to ensuring that every American has access to affordable and comprehensive health coverage. With nearly 21 million Americans enrolled in the individual market for the 2023 plan year, it’s crucial to understand the factors that will influence individual market premiums in 2024 and beyond. In this blog post, we’ll delve into some of the key drivers shaping the future of individual market premiums. Factors Driving Premium Changes in 2024 As we look ahead to 2024, several key factors will influence individual market premiums: Increasing Provider Costs: The rising cost of medical services provided by doctors and hospitals contributes significantly to premium… Read More

Medicaid & CHIP Enrollment Extension!

October 3, 2023October 3, 2023Wendy Lopez

In a recent development, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Departments of Labor (DOL) and the Treasury have issued a letter urging employers, plan sponsors, and carriers to consider extending the enrollment period for employer-sponsored health plans. This extension is aimed at helping individuals who have lost their Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) coverage due to the resumption of normal eligibility and enrollment procedures. Traditionally, Medicaid coverage requires annual renewal of eligibility. However, during the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, these renewal requirements were temporarily halted to prevent members from losing their coverage. Unfortunately, this pause in eligibility rules came to an end on March… Read More

2024 ACA Affordability Shake-Up: Are You Ready?

October 2, 2023October 2, 2023Wendy Lopez

Are you ready for some important news regarding the Affordable Care Act (ACA)? The IRS has just released an update that could impact your organization’s healthcare offerings. In this blog post, we’ll break down the latest announcement and what it means for employers and employees alike. If you’re interested in diving deeper, be sure to download our PDF for more information. IRS Announces 2024 ACA Affordability Indexed Amount The IRS recently made an important announcement in Revenue Procedure 2023-29 regarding the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) affordability indexed amount under the Employer Shared Responsibility Payment (ESRP) requirements. This announcement is significant for employers as it affects the calculation of penalties related… Read More

MLR Rebate Checks Unveiled: A Must-Read for Employers

September 29, 2023September 29, 2023Wendy Lopez

Every year, insurance carriers are required to meet specific Medical Loss Ratio (MLR) thresholds, ensuring that a significant portion of collected premiums goes toward medical care and improving healthcare quality. For the large group market, this threshold stands at 85 cents for every premium dollar collected, while in the small group market, it’s 80 cents. If these thresholds are not met, employers are in for a timely financial boost, in the form of premium credits or checks. MLR Rebate Deadline: September 30, 2023 The clock is ticking. If your insurance carrier falls short of the MLR threshold, they are obligated to distribute MLR checks to employers by September 30, 2023.… Read More

Understanding the Updates to the Davis Bacon and Related Acts

September 28, 2023September 28, 2023Wendy Lopez

On August 8, 2023, the Department of Labor (DOL) made a significant announcement that will have a substantial impact on federal construction contracts and projects receiving federal assistance. The long-awaited final rule related to the Davis Bacon and Related Acts (DBRA) was released, ushering in a series of comprehensive updates and changes. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the key points of this final rule, with a focus on how it affects fringe benefit administration. The Davis Bacon and Related Acts (DBRA): A Quick Overview The DBRA, which has been in place for decades, is a set of labor laws that pertain to contracts issued by the federal government… Read More

Benefits Notices: What Employers Need to Know

September 27, 2023September 27, 2023Wendy Lopez

As an employer, it is important to be aware of the various benefits notices that you are required to provide to your employees. These notices are designed to inform employees of their rights and benefits under various laws and regulations. Failure to provide these notices can result in penalties and legal action. One of the notices that employers with 1-19 employees are required to provide is the Part D Creditable Coverage Disclosure Notice or Non-Creditable Coverage Disclosure Notice. This notice is provided to Medicare-eligible individuals who are offered prescription drug coverage under the employer’s group health plan. It must be provided annually prior to October 15th, upon request, and at… Read More

Voluntary Benefits: Customized Coverage for Your Team

September 26, 2023September 26, 2023Wendy Lopez

Unlocking the Power of Voluntary Benefits In today’s competitive job market, employers aim to attract and retain top talent by offering comprehensive benefits beyond the basics. Enter voluntary benefits – a customizable solution that benefits both employers and employees. What Are Voluntary Benefits? Voluntary benefits are offerings that employers provide for purchase by employees. They empower employees to tailor their benefits to their needs, offering flexibility and convenience. Here are their key characteristics: A Variety of Benefits Voluntary benefits offer a wide array of options, including: Advantages for Employers and Employees Employers benefit from: Employees enjoy: While voluntary benefits may not suit everyone, employers should assess their package and consult… Read More

Employer’s Guide to Medicare Compliance

September 25, 2023September 26, 2023Wendy Lopez

Medicare is a critical healthcare program in the US, covering seniors and certain disabled individuals. Employers offering group health insurance to Medicare-eligible individuals must meet specific requirements. In this blog, we’ll discuss three key Medicare requirements for employers: Employers must ensure compliance with these Medicare regulations to provide necessary healthcare information and process claims correctly. This ensures employees receive the coverage they’re entitled to. For comprehensive information and resources, refer to our PDF document below. Meeting these obligations supports employee well-being and eases healthcare coverage complexities. As always, if you have any questions or concerns about this bulletin, please contact your Medicare health insurance experts at Total Benefit Solutions, Inc.… Read More

COBRA and Medicare: Complementary Health Insurance Explained

September 21, 2023September 21, 2023Wendy Lopez

In today’s rapidly changing job landscape, it’s not uncommon for individuals to find themselves eligible for both Medicare and COBRA simultaneously. This dual eligibility can be a bit bewildering, but understanding how these two crucial insurance options interact is vital to making informed decisions that could impact your finances and peace of mind. Let’s delve into the intricacies of how COBRA works with Medicare and explore the options available to you. COBRA Unveiled First, let’s demystify COBRA. The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) is a federal program designed to provide a safety net for workers and their families. It allows you to maintain the health coverage provided by your… Read More

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