by admin | Jul 29, 2024 | Employee Benefits
Today’s workforce is a mix of generations, and Gen X is a group you can’t afford to overlook. Known for their flexibility and problem-solving skills, Gen X employees bring a powerful combination of experience and value to any company.
Gen X, those born between 1965 and 1980, makes up a significant chunk (27%) of today’s workforce. They’re often in the thick of the “sandwich generation” phase, juggling the needs of aging parents and their own children, all while aiming for career advancement and taking care of themselves. The key to attracting and keeping them? Perks that matter to their lives and priorities.
Healthy Gen X = Happy and Productive Gen X
As we age, health becomes a top priority. That’s why Gen X employees appreciate comprehensive health benefits that go beyond the basics. Offering plans with preventive screenings, broad dental and vision coverage for their families, and well-being programs designed for their age group shows you care – and keeps them healthy, happy, and productive at work.
Work-Life Balance Matters: Offer Flexibility
Life for Gen X can be a juggling act. Flexible work arrangements are more than just a benefit – they’re essential. By offering flexible schedules and remote work options, you acknowledge their responsibilities outside of work and show trust in their dedication. This win-win situation keeps Gen X employees happy and allows them to excel while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Gen X and Mental Wellness: Addressing a Unique Need
Having navigated a period of rapid technological and societal change, Gen X may face specific mental health challenges. For this demographic, access to mental health resources carries significant weight. By offering initiatives that promote work-life balance and provide mental health support, employers can demonstrate they care and create a work environment that fosters well-being and maximizes the potential of their Gen X employees.
Gen X and the Retirement Edge: Invest in Their Future
With retirement on the horizon, financial security is a top priority for Gen X. Employers who offer robust retirement savings plans and financial planning resources demonstrate they understand this concern and invest in their employees’ long-term well-being. Further sweeten the deal with student loan repayment programs and life insurance options to ease financial burdens and attract this valuable talent pool. By focusing on Gen X’s financial future, you gain a loyal and engaged workforce ready to contribute their expertise for years to come.
Never Stop Learning: Upskilling Gen X Benefits Everyone
The job market’s always changing so staying ahead of the curve is crucial. Gen Xers, known for their adaptability, value opportunities for continuous learning and professional development. By investing in their growth through training programs and resources, you empower them to excel in their roles, stay relevant in the industry, and feel valued as part of the team. A win-win for both employee satisfaction and company success!
by admin | Jul 15, 2024 | Employee Benefits
Health savings accounts (HSAs) have become a vital part of many employers’ benefits packages, offering employees a powerful tool to manage healthcare expenses while benefiting from tax advantages. However, managing HSAs goes beyond just facilitating contributions. It also involves understanding and addressing mistakes with distributions that employees might encounter.
This article delves into the basics of HSAs, common distribution mistakes, and discusses how employers can assist employees in correcting these errors.
HSA Overview
HSAs are tax-advantaged savings accounts available to individuals enrolled in High Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs). They allow employees to set aside pre-tax dollars to cover qualified medical expenses, providing a triple tax benefit: contributions are tax-deductible, earnings grow tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are tax-free. Contributions to HSAs can come from both employees and employers, with annual contribution limits for individual and family coverage set by the IRS.
Common Mistakes in HSA Distributions
Despite the best intentions, mistakes in HSA distributions can occur. Common errors include:
- Using funds for nonqualified expenses: Employees may inadvertently use HSA funds for expenses that do not qualify as medical expenses under IRS guidelines.
- Overdrawing funds: Employees may withdraw more than necessary from their HSAs, leading to unintended tax consequences.
- Exceeding contribution limits: Employees may contribute more than the IRS annual maximum, resulting in tax consequences.
- Inadequate recordkeeping: Poor recordkeeping can make it difficult for employees to track HSA transactions and verify the eligibility of expenses.
Supporting Employees in Correcting Distributions
As an employer, you can support employees in correcting mistaken HSA distributions in several ways:
- Educate employees: Provide comprehensive education and training on HSA rules and regulations, including eligible expenses, contribution limits, and the consequences of nonqualified distributions. Offer resources such as workshops, webinars, and informational materials to help employees understand how to use their HSAs effectively.
- Encourage recordkeeping: Emphasize the importance of keeping detailed records of HSA transactions and medical expenses. Encourage employees to save receipts and documentation for all qualified medical expenses, as well as records of HSA contributions and distributions.
- Offer guidance and resources: Ensure employees know where to turn for help if they have questions or need assistance with their HSAs. Provide access to knowledgeable benefits administrators, financial advisors, or tax professionals who can offer guidance on correcting mistaken distributions and navigating HSA rules.
- Communicate proactively: Regularly communicate with employees about HSA-related updates, such as contribution limit adjustments, changes to regulations, and reminders about best practices for managing their accounts. Use multiple channels—email, intranet, and employee meetings—to ensure that information reaches all employees.
Conclusion
HSAs provide employees with a valuable opportunity to save for healthcare expenses and offer significant tax benefits. As an employer, it’s essential to support employees in understanding and managing their HSAs effectively. By providing education, resources, and guidance on correcting mistaken distributions, employers can help their workers maximize their HSA benefits while minimizing potential pitfalls. Together, employers and employees can navigate the complexities of HSAs and achieve greater financial wellness.
by admin | Jun 10, 2024 | Employee Benefits, ERISA
Attention Employers: Don’t Miss Your Form 5500 Deadline!
Here’s a simplified breakdown of what you need to know about filing your employee benefit plan report:
Who Needs to File?
- Employers subject to ERISA (Employee Retirement Income Security Act) with employee benefit plans, unless exempt.
What to File?
- Form 5500 (annual report) for each employee benefit plan.
When to File?
- Deadline: July 31, 2024 for calendar year plans (unless exempt).
- Extension: October 15, 2024 by filing Form 5558 with the IRS (paper form only for 2024).
Exemptions:
- Small welfare benefit plans with fewer than 100 participants (unfunded or fully insured).
Filing Electronically:
Late Filings?
Penalties:
- Up to $2,670 per day for non-filing or incomplete filings (can be waived for reasonable cause).
Visit IRS.gov for more information
by admin | Jun 3, 2024 | Employee Benefits
A Baby Boomer is someone born between 1946 and 1964. This generation is currently between 58 and 78 years old (in 2024). They tend to have a strong, loyal work ethic and excel at face-to-face communication and building relationships with colleagues. Boomers have a wealth of experience accumulated over long careers. They value jobs that allow them to leverage this experience and be seen as mentors or leaders. They are also loyal and expect loyalty in return.
Security for Boomers: Health Insurance a Top Priority
As medical expenses climb, health insurance remains a critical benefit for all ages. But for Baby Boomers nearing retirement, it takes on even greater significance. With chronic health conditions becoming more common, 71% of Boomers say health insurance is the key to achieving their financial goals. This highlights the peace of mind and financial security a robust health plan provides, allowing them to focus on enjoying their golden years without worrying about unexpected medical bills.
Boomers Say “Yes” to Wellness!
84% of Boomers actively seek out employers with wellness programs. These programs not only help control healthcare costs by keeping everyone healthier and reducing medical bills, but they also tap into Boomers’ desire to stay active and youthful. These programs offer a fun and engaging way to maintain their well-being, making them a highly valued benefit for this generation.
Why Boomers Value Flexibility and Paid Time Off
We often associate flexible work arrangements with Millennials, but don’t underestimate Boomers! A surprising 56% of Boomers value work flexibility just as much. In fact, they often prioritize it over higher salaries.
In the US, companies are getting creative to attract and retain top Baby Boomer talent. One unique approach? “Grandternity” leave. This leave allows grandparents to take time off to support their adult children when a new grandchild arrives, recognizing the expanding roles that Boomers play within families.
Another modern twist on work flexibility? Snowbird programs. These programs allow older workers to enjoy the flexibility of working remotely from two different locations throughout the year.
Imagine this: during the winter months, Boomers can choose to work from a warmer climate, giving them a taste of retirement living. This “test drive” helps ease the transition when they’re ready to fully step away from the workforce, boosting morale and overall satisfaction.
Snowbird programs and grandternity leave are just a few examples of how US companies are offering innovative benefits that cater to the desires and needs of the Boomer generation.
Boomers: Experienced and Eager to Learn
Forget the stereotype – Boomers are ready to embrace change! While they may not have grown up with today’s technology, their optimistic outlook and desire to stay relevant make them valuable assets. The key? Providing opportunities for continuous learning and development.
According to Gallup, only 30% of Boomers feel they have access to these opportunities at work. This is a missed opportunity! By investing in their ongoing professional development, you unlock the full potential of their experience and keep them engaged and motivated. This translates to a loyal and highly skilled workforce, ensuring your company stays competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
by admin | May 6, 2024 | Employee Benefits
Life Insurance at Work: Your Guide to Voluntary Coverage
We all juggle life’s different responsibilities, and ensuring our loved ones are financially secure in case of our passing should be a top priority. Life insurance offers a safety net but typically the amount of coverage included as a standard company-paid life insurance policy isn’t enough to cover the financial needs of your dependents. This is where voluntary life insurance comes in – an option your employer might offer as part of your benefits package.
What is Voluntary Life Insurance?
Unlike mandatory benefits like health insurance, voluntary life insurance is an add-on you can choose. It functions similarly to regular life insurance: you pay a monthly premium, typically deducted from your paycheck, and if you pass away, a designated beneficiary receives a cash benefit.
Why Consider Voluntary Life Insurance?
Here are some key advantages:
Affordability: Because it’s a group plan, voluntary life insurance is often cheaper than individual policies. Employers may even contribute to the cost, making it even more attractive.
Convenience: Premiums are often deducted from your paycheck.
Easy Qualification: Unlike individual policies that might require medical exams, voluntary life insurance often offers guaranteed coverage, making it easier to obtain.
Additional Perks:
Some voluntary life insurance plans offer extra features like:
Coverage for Spouses and Dependents: Extend your financial protection to your family.
Portability: Continue your coverage even if you leave your job (check your specific plan details).
Accelerated Benefits: In some cases, you may access a portion of the death benefit if diagnosed with a terminal illness.
Is Voluntary Life Insurance Right for You?
While voluntary life insurance offers a convenient and affordable starting point, consider your individual needs. Think about:
Your current financial situation: Do you have existing life insurance?
Your dependents: How much would your loved ones need financially in your absence?
The coverage amount offered: Does it meet your family’s needs?
Taking the Next Step
If your employer offers voluntary life insurance, carefully review the plan details during your benefits enrollment period. Consider factors like coverage amount, available riders, and portability options. Don’t hesitate to ask your HR representative any questions you might have.
Voluntary life insurance can be a valuable tool in your financial planning. By understanding your options and weighing your needs, you can make informed decisions to ensure your loved ones are taken care of, no matter what.
by admin | May 2, 2024 | Compliance, Employee Benefits
A health plan is more than a product or service; it’s a relationship. All productive and healthy relationships—especially in the benefits space—rely on trust. When an employer extends trust in a broker or insurance carrier to purchase something as critical as healthcare—for people as critical as their workers and families—we’re obligated to raise all factors that affect that purchase.
Assisting employers with benefits compliance requires understanding key benefits laws to effectively engage, educate, and be a better partner to employer clients. The six compliance obligations listed below are just as important to check on when talking with clients about their organizational health.
1. Employee Retirement Income Safety Act (ERISA)
Dating back nearly a half century, ERISA is essentially the heart of benefits law—setting the standards of protection for employees and their families when they enroll in employer-sponsored benefit plans. Meeting those standards can cause a compliance migraine for employers—particularly when it comes to creating, updating, and distributing Summary Plan Descriptions (SPDs).
Compounding the pain, employers might think their SPD will be created by their insurance carrier or broker, but this isn’t typically the case. It’s important that employers understand their responsibility to know which benefits are subject to ERISA rules, to have these documents created through a reputable vendor or an attorney, and to adhere to ERISA’s distribution requirements.
2. Affordable Care Act (ACA)
Upheld after a contentious congressional approval and multiple Supreme Court challenges, this 2010 law changed the landscape of health insurance in many ways, not least of which was creating new compliance obligations for employers. ACA requires employers to distribute a Summary of Benefits and Coverage (SBC) to participants and beneficiaries—including enrolled, nonactive employees—plus additional requirements for ALEs (applicable large employers), those with 50 or more full-time and full-time equivalent employees.
ACA’s hidden health hazard for employers is that the law requires commonly or jointly owned businesses to count all employees together. An HR professional for one business may not know that their employer owns multiple businesses (since commonly owned businesses may not share resources like HR and benefits departments). So, asking about ALE status is an important question brokers and carriers can ask clients as a way to open the conversation about overall ACA compliance obligations.
3. Transparency in Coverage
Signed into law in 2021, the No Surprises Act builds on ACA transparency rules by requiring group health plans to:
- Post in-network negotiated rates, and out-of-network allowed amounts on a public-facing website.
- Provide a web-based price comparison tool that allows individuals to estimate their cost-sharing responsibility for a specific item/service from a particular provider.
- Annually report detailed information related to prescription drug costs, including most frequently dispersed brand-name drugs and most costly drugs.
Although fully insured plans will rely heavily on insurance carriers to make the information available, self-funded groups will bear the compliance obligations. It is critical for plan sponsors to work with carriers and third-party administrators to outline and clearly document who is responsible for each requirement.
4. Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
FMLA, specifically designed to protect employees and their jobs when taking leave to care for themselves or a family member, exposes employers to compliance risk—especially as it pertains to maintaining employee health benefits.
The law requires employers to maintain an employee’s coverage, including employee contributions, as if they had not taken leave, and prohibits benefits termination while on leave except in limited circumstances.
To keep a compliance cold from turning into a full FMLA flu, broker partners must help employer clients understand their FMLA obligations, including: which benefits fall under the group health category, how to collect employee premiums while on FMLA leave, and how to provide mandatory information and notices while an employee is on FMLA leave.
5. COBRA
The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA), passed in 1985, applies to most employers with 20 or more employees that sponsor group health plans. The law is relatively straightforward, a rarity in benefits regulations.
Still, it is imperative to know help clients understand COBRA’s key provisions to effectively support them in meeting compliance obligations, including the rules for removing an ineligible dependent if an employee neglects to notify their employer for six months after a divorce is final.
6. Medicare
As employees stay in the workforce longer, employers must understand Medicare rules related to:
- Prescriptions—in particular, calculating whether their plan offers creditable coverage (compared to the standard Part D plan) and notifying Medicare-eligible employees about the creditable/non-creditable coverage calculation.
- Disclosures—specifically, preparing and submitting to CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) disclosure about whether the plan provides creditable coverage.
- Plan limits for cost-shifting when Medicare-eligible employees have dual coverage. The rules differ for employers with fewer than 20 employees, 20 to 99 employees, and 100 or more employees. For employers with 20 or more employees, Medicare rules limit employer plans as the primary payer from shifting an individual’s healthcare costs onto Medicare. Employers need to understand the interaction between their plan and Medicare to meet their compliance obligations.
It’s important for all parties involved to have a baseline understanding of benefits compliance obligations so they can effectively support employer clients in finding a benefits administration platform, a broker to assist with enrollment meetings, a carrier to find an in-network provider for a specialty service, and other scenarios. Compliance rules and regulations are complex. Partnering with other industry professionals, such as Mineral, is an excellent way to ensure that employer groups are educated, supported, and compliant.
