An employee handbook is key for setting workplace expectations and staying compliant. Outdated policies can create legal and operational risk. With evolving compliance requirements in the form of new laws and revised regulations, employers need to keep a watchful eye on their handbook policies to make sure they stay compliant. They should also be sure [...]
The phrase "attitude of gratitude" is more than a simple rhyme—it's a powerful reminder to intentionally practice thankfulness in our daily lives. Consistently acknowledging what we appreciate not only enhances our own mental and physical health but also positively affects those around us. What Is Gratitude? Gratitude means being thankful and ready to show appreciation [...]
Federal regulators—specifically, the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and the Treasury—issued joint guidance on October 16, 2025, making it significantly easier for employers to offer fertility benefits outside of their traditional group health plans. This action was driven by an Executive Order focused on protecting in vitro fertilization (IVF) access and reducing the [...]
Open enrollment is a hectic and critical period for employers that often brings a risk of compliance errors. These mistakes can confuse employees and cause missed benefits, while also exposing employers to legal risks. This article highlights five common compliance pitfalls to avoid during open enrollment: Ineffective Communication of Benefit Changes – Benefit offerings often change [...]
No doubt about it, prescriptions are expensive. While this may not be a big worry when you’re young and healthy, the costs can add up quickly if you’re diagnosed with a chronic condition or need an expensive drug. Whether you take medications regularly or for an occasional illness, it pays to know how to save [...]
Over the past several years, mental health in the United States has steadily declined. Growing concerns about this issue have increased the pressure on employers to provide stronger mental health benefits. Although many organizations have expanded their mental health offerings, utilization among employees remains low. When these resources go unused, employees who could benefit miss [...]
Health Insurance today is significantly more complex for young workers than it was just a decade ago. This complexity is driven in large part by healthcare costs that have outpaced inflation, pushing premiums, copays, and other out-of-pocket expenses to comprise substantial portions of their budgets. For many younger employees, navigating this landscape is confusing – [...]
Protecting yourself online doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. A few simple habits can dramatically reduce your risk of falling victim to cybercrime. While you can never be "hackproof," you can become resilient in the online world. At the heart of online safety are four essential behaviors we at the National Cybersecurity Alliance call [...]
How to position yourself as a trusted ACA compliance advisor For brokers and benefits advisors, Q4 planning doesn’t start in October. It starts now. September marks a critical moment in the annual ACA compliance cycle, when employers begin thinking about year-end strategies, benefits renewals, and how to avoid last-minute reporting panic. That makes now the perfect [...]
When navigating the world of health insurance, you will likely encounter the term PPO (Preferred Provider Organization). A PPO plan - whether medical or dental - is about balancing the cost and convenience of care. With a PPO plan, you get the flexibility to see a wide range of doctors. You'll save money by staying [...]
