Skip to Content


Articles

Controlling Washington L&I Premiums with Retro Groups

In Washington State, workers’ compensation insurance is provided through the state (i.e. a monopolistic state fund). This is a relatively rare structure in the United States; Washington is one of only four states that pay workers’ compensation premiums to the state’s department of labor and industries (L&I), and not to a private insurance carrier.

Read more

2020 “Affordability” Percentage

In Revenue Procedure 2019-29, the IRS decreased the affordability percentage from 9.86% to 9.78% for 2020. This percentage determines which applicable large employers may face penalties under §4980H(b) for failure to offer affordable coverage as well as which individuals may qualify for subsidized coverage through a public Exchange.

Read more

HSAs & Preventive Coverage

In IRS Notice 2019-45, the IRS expanded upon what is considered to be preventive coverage for purposes of determining eligibility to contribute to a health savings account (HSA). The guidance comes shortly after the issuance of President Trump’s executive order requesting that the agency provide further flexibility for those with chronic conditions to receive coverage for such conditions while maintaining HSA eligibility.

Read more

Is Your Business Prepared When Washington’s Paid Family and Medical Leave Benefits Begin in 2020?

Washington employers have already begun paying premiums to the state under the new Paid Family Medical Leave law, but there is still more work to be done before benefits start paying out in 2020. Organizations should take the time to review their existing benefits plans and how PFML fits into that structure.

Read more

HHS Changes Rule Regarding Prescription Drug Manufacturer Coupons and Cost-Sharing Requirements

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released the final Notice of Benefit & Payment Parameters for 2020.

Read more

Preparing for a Hardening Insurance Market

Up until 2018, companies have enjoyed the fruits of a “soft” commercial insurance market. A soft market is generally characterized by declining insurance rates and increased availability of generous coverage enhancements. Many things contribute to a soft market…

Read more

Recent Executive Order

President Trump issued an executive order last week directing the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS), the Department of the Treasury (IRS), and the Department of Labor (DOL) to take various actions related to health care over the next two to six months.

Read more