DOL Extends Comment Period on Proposed PBM Fee Disclosure Rule The Department of Labor (DOL) has announced a short extension to the comment period for its proposed rule on pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) compensation transparency. The rule is intended to strengthen disclosure requirements for PBMs and related service providers working with self-insured group health plans subject to … Continued
Navigating the healthcare system is rarely a straight line. Between deciphering insurance jargon and choosing the right doctor, the decisions you make have a direct impact on your physical health and your bank account. As healthcare costs continue to rise—ranking as a top economic concern for two-thirds of Americans—personal health literacy has become an essential … Continued
Most employers follow standard payroll schedules—monthly, weekly, semi-monthly, or biweekly—with biweekly cycles being the most common. Nearly half of organizations pay employees every other week. In 2026, however, employers using a biweekly schedule may encounter an unusual twist. Because New Year’s Day in 2027 falls on a federal holiday, companies that typically issue Friday paychecks … Continued
Recognition is one of the most cost-effective tools for shaping workplace culture, yet it is often overlooked. When it’s missing or delayed, employees don’t just feel unappreciated; they also feel disrespected. They disengage, lose motivation, and eventually walk out the door. Recent research highlights the urgency of this issue. Only 19% of employees report receiving … Continued
If your company provides an employee benefit plan governed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), you are likely obligated to file Form 5500. This annual report discloses key details about your organization’s benefit offerings, such as welfare benefit plans (including medical, dental, life, and disability coverage), retirement plans, fully insured plans, and self-funded … Continued
On January 29, 2026, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) officially released the maximum cost-sharing limits for the 2027 plan year. These figures represent a significant 13.2% increase over the 2026 limits, marking a substantial shift in potential out-of-pocket expenses for plan participants. 2027 Maximum Out-of-Pocket Limits For 2027, the maximum annual … Continued
Choosing a health insurance plan can feel a lot like solving a puzzle—there are many moving pieces, and the best fit depends on how they come together for your unique situation. With so many options and acronyms—HMO, PPO, POS, EPO, HDHP—it’s easy to feel unsure about where to start. This guide breaks down the most … Continued
Employers must prepare for Affordable Care Act (ACA) reporting covering the 2025 calendar year. Staying ahead of these deadlines is critical for Applicable Large Employers (ALEs) and providers of self-insured health plans. Who is Required to Report? Reporting obligations under Internal Revenue Code Sections 6055 and 6056 fall into two main categories: Note for Self-Insured … Continued
Guiding Better Benefit Decisions Employees don’t experience their benefits all at once. They encounter them in moments — when a bill arrives, when a provider is chosen, or when an unexpected health issue surfaces. Yet, benefits communication is still heavily focused on enrollment, leaving employees without guidance when decisions are made. That gap can … Continued
February is often filled with symbols of love, but it’s also the perfect time to focus on the most important heart of all—your own. American Heart Month serves as a vital reminder that cardiovascular health is the foundation of a long, vibrant life. Heart disease remains a leading health challenge globally, but the good news … Continued
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