The Benefits Brief | Q3 2026
The third quarter of 2026 brought new insights, resources, and important benefits updates as employers prepare for open enrollment and the year ahead. From new research into what employers and healthcare consumers want to important HSA changes, real-world benefits strategies, and resources for open enrollment, we’re focused on giving you the information and tools you...
The Consolidated Appropriations Act (CAA) was passed in 2021, and although it brought significant changes that will continue to impact employers offering group health insurance and their employees, many organizations still haven’t made changes to meet the mandates. What are the key requirements of CAA legislation that employers need to act on? Gag Clause One…
What is the Transportation Benefits Program Act? The State of Illinois recently passed the “Transportation Benefits Program Act” that will go into effect January 1, 2024, and require employers with 50 or more employees located in specific areas to offer a pre-tax commuter benefit to “covered employees.” Employees who take advantage of the benefit can…
It’s true that Health Savings Accounts can pay for medical expenses now, but the most powerful tax advantages and benefits come from saving the balance for later, even into retirement. With the growth in HSA popularity over the last few years, anyone looking for employee benefits has read about or heard of the triple-tax advantage…
President Biden has announced that both the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency and the related National Emergency, ongoing since March 2020, came to an end on May 11, 2023. As a result, the corresponding Outbreak Period will end 60 days later on July 11, 2023. Impact on our COBRA and Consumer-Driven Healthplan (CDH) clients COBRA: During…
What are the benefits of a High-Deductible Health Plan and Health Savings Account (HDHP/HSA)? Lower premiums can be one of the most significant benefits of a High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP). By offsetting the higher deductible, lower premiums can often save participants money in the long run. Another big benefit is the ability to partner an…
Why employers are realizing the need to follow compliance guidelines: Organizations are facing more pressure than ever to strengthen their employee benefits packages to stay competitive in the marketplace, find top talent, and retain their best employees. But there’s more to consider than just offering a variety of benefits. When organizations fail to factor in…
The IRS has announced the 2023 contribution limits for flexible spending accounts (FSA), commuter benefits, and more. Here’s a look at what’s changing. Health FSA: $3,050 (Increased from $2,850). This also applies to limited-purpose FSAs. FSA Carryover: $610 (Increased from $570). Commuter (Parking and Transit): $300 per month (Increased from $280). Dependent Care: The annual limits will remain $5,000 for single taxpayers…
The IRS announced the new medical mileage rate for taxpayers who deduct the cost of operating a vehicle for business, charitable, medical, or moving expense purposes when filing their taxes. Effective July 1, 2022, the new rate for medical and moving is $.22 per mile, which is an increase from the previous rate of $.18. …
On June 24, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld Mississippi’s restrictions on abortion in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization (“Dobbs”). The decision overturns the Roe v. Wade (1973) and Planned Parenthood v. Casey (1992) decisions that pre-empted state restrictions on abortion. In light of the Dobbs ruling, some employers have announced plans to revise their…
Philadelphia will soon be the next major U.S. city to adopt a commuter benefits mandate for eligible employers. On June 9, 2022, the Philadelphia City Council passed an ordinance that will require certain employers to offer a pre-tax commuter benefits program to their employees. The Philadelphia mayor is expected to sign the bill soon. Key…