Articles, News and Information

No Surprises Act Summary and What Employers and Employees Need to Know

As of January 2022, the “No Surprise Act” provides protection for consumers from unexpected bills for out-of-network care in an emergency and certain non-emergency settings. By enforcing better consumer protection and price transparency, the new regulations will help create better patient experiences and provide better financial protection for individuals. Here are a few of the…

2023 ACA Pay or Play Increasing Penalties

On August 16, 2022, the IRS revised the penalty amounts for the employer shared responsibility (pay or play) rules under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) for 2023. For the calendar year 2023, the adjusted $2,000 penalty amount is $2,880, and the revised $3,000 penalty amount is $4,320.   Pay Or Play Penalty An applicable large…

2022 MetLife: 20th Annual Employee Benefit Trends Study

As workplace dynamics continue to change and evolve, it is important to understand the shifting environments. The pandemic brought accelerating trends to the market, including but not limited to greater interest in flexible working arrangements, more work-life balance, financial well-being, mental health awareness, and much more. The MetLife’s 20th Annual U.S. Employee Benefit Trends Study 2022…

COBRA Subsidy Final Notice Requirement (September 2021)

September 30, 2021 marks the conclusion of the 100% COBRA or Cal-COBRA subsidy period through the American Rescue Plan Act. As we approach the expiration date, there is a final notice that must be sent to Assistance Eligible Individuals (AEIs) announcing the conclusion of the subsidy period, along with information on their continuation of coverage…

COBRA ARPA Subsidy: What Employers Need to Know

If you are an employer who offers employee benefits and have terminated individuals, or if you have had employees with a reduction of hours within the last 17 months, it is important to learn more about the COBRA provisions of The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. President Biden signed ARPA into law on March…

The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021: COBRA Model Notices

On March 11, 2021, President Biden signed the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, which provides 100% COBRA subsidies for certain individuals beginning on April 1, 2021 through September 30, 2021. Limitations may apply. On April 7, 2021, the Department of Labor released guidance and the NEW required model notices that determine how the COBRA…