Summary Plan Description

What is a Summary Plan Description?

If you receive healthcare benefits from your employer, you will also receive a Summary Plan Description (SPD). Required by law, the SPD defines plan eligibility and explains benefit calculations and payments, how to submit claims, when benefit guarantees begin, and more. Here’s what you need to know about your Summary Plan Description. Summary Plan Description … More >>

cafeteria

What is a Section 125 Plan?

Employers seek creative and effective support options for employee health, wellness, and financial needs, giving employees more benefit options than ever. Picking and choosing among them is somewhat like building a meal in a cafeteria line. This ability comes from the IRS’ Section 125, also known as the “Cafeteria Plan” provision. But what exactly do Section … More >>

HSA

What are the Hidden Benefits of an HSA?

Most people know the triple tax savings HSAs offer, including tax-free contributions, tax-free earnings, and tax-free withdrawals for qualified healthcare expenses. However, while HSAs primarily help reduce healthcare costs, they also have lesser-known values. So, what are the hidden benefits of an HSA? HSA Portability When you have an HSA, you keep and use those … More >>

LSA

What is an LSA?

Although popular in countries such as Canada, Lifestyle Spending Accounts (LSAs) are relatively new in the U.S. and attracting a lot of attention. So, what is an LSA? LSA Basics LSAs are employer-funded accounts that employees use to pay for products, services, and activities that help support employee well-being. Qualified expenses may relate to physical, … More >>

HSA Contributions

Employer Contributions to Employee HSA Accounts

Health Savings Accounts, or HSAs, are popular savings tools for healthcare and retirement expenses. Eligibility is tied to enrollment in qualified high-deductible health plans (HDHPs), but anyone may contribute funds, including employers. As they seek more ways to attract and retain valuable talent, what should employers know about HSA contributions?Contribution AmountEach year, the IRS sets contribution … More >>

Using Benefits to Increase Employee Satisfaction and Retention

Employers invest substantial time and money into employee benefits programs. Yet myths, misconceptions, and confusion may prevent employees from getting maximum and practical benefits from them. Effective communication and education can improve benefit utilization, employee satisfaction, and talent retention. FSAs and Employee Satisfaction Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) continue to be a popular benefit option. Yet, … More >>

4 Things to Know About Your FSA Before the Year Ends

When you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), you set aside money before taxes to cover qualified out-of-pocket healthcare expenses for yourself and your family. As the year comes to an end, there are a few things you should be aware of so you can maximize your account’s benefits. Here are 4 things to know … More >>