I’m Self-Employed … Now What About Health Insurance?
Written by Bethany DeMott, Group Benefits Account Manager Traditionally our employer determines our health insurance, so where can you obtain health insurance when you are self-employed? This can often be the biggest pain point when deciding to take the leap and cut ties with your desk job. Shopping for health insurance is a daunting task. […]
Read MoreNY 2023 New Year Update
Paid Family Leave, COVID Vaccination Leave, Minimum Wages and Salaries The following changes to New York employment law cover employers of all sizes: Paid Family Leave expanded to cover siblings: Beginning January 1, 2023, eligible employees will be entitled to use Paid Family Leave (PFL) to care for a sibling (whether biological, adopted, step, or […]
Read MoreChanges to NYS Paid Family Leave
In 2023, the maximum employee contribution rate has been reduced by 10%. As the state’s average weekly wage for 2023 increased to $1,688.19, the maximum weekly benefit available to employees increased by $62.72 to $1,131.08 (67% of the state’s average weekly wage). In addition to the information above, another change taking effect on 1/1/2023 is […]
Read MoreNY Project Hope
NY Project Hope is New York’s free COVID-19 emotional support helpline. It helps New Yorkers understand their reactions and emotions during COVID-19. Through an emotional support helpline, educational materials, and trusted referrals, NY Project Hope helps people manage and cope with changes brought on by the pandemic. NY Project Hope crisis counselors understand what you […]
Read MoreNew COBRA Subsidy Information
The COBRA subsidy began April 1, 2021 and lasts through September 30, 2021. To be eligible, employees: Must have a COBRA qualifying event that is a reduction in hours or an involuntary termination of a covered employee’s employment; Must elect COBRA continuation coverage; Must not be eligible for Medicare; AND Must not be eligible for […]
Read MoreNYS Open Enrollment Extended to May 15th
New York’s health insurance Open Enrollment Period will be further extended to May 15, 2021, aligning with states across the country. With this extension, New York joins the federal Marketplace and other state-based Marketplaces giving consumers even more time to enroll for 2021. You can apply for coverage through NY State of Health or directly through us. […]
Read MoreCOVID-19 Vaccine: Update From Excellus
We just received the following information from Excellus regarding coverage for the COVID-19 Vaccine … Member/Group Impact: Vaccines approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) and recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) will be covered through the end of either NY State of Emergency […]
Read MoreCoronavirus: Compliance Issues for Employers
As the number of reported cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to rise, employers are increasingly confronted with the possibility of an outbreak in the workplace. Employers are obligated to maintain a safe and healthy work environment for their employees, but are also subject to a number of legal requirements protecting workers. For example, […]
Read MoreCMS Disclosure Requirement for Employer Health Plans
Do you offer health coverage to your employees? Does your group health plan cover outpatient prescription drugs? If so, federal law requires you to complete an online disclosure form every year with information about your plan’s drug coverage. You have 60 days from the start of your health plan year to complete the form. For […]
Read MoreEmployer Medicare Part D Notices Due Before October 15
Are you an employer that offers or provides group health coverage to your workers? Does your health plan cover outpatient prescription drugs — either as a medical claim or through a card system? If so, be sure to distribute your plan’s Medicare Part D notice before October 15. Purpose Medicare began offering “Part D” plans — […]
Read MoreTips for Preparing Form 5500
At this time of year, many employers and benefit advisors begin preparing Form 5500, the annual report required for most employee benefit plans. Form 5500 must be filed with the federal government within seven months after the end of the plan year. The following are the most frequently asked questions about Form 5500 for employer-sponsored […]
Read MoreUsing an Independent Agent for Health Insurance
Tailor your health insurance policy with the help of an independent agent. Everyone’s needs, health, and lifestyle are different. For this reason, buying a health insurance policy that’s designed to cover some of your needs could be a mistake. Fortunately, enlisting the help of an independent agent can help you get your health insurance policy […]
Read MoreAre Trampolines and Tree Houses Covered by Insurance?
Trampolines and tree houses are a staple of outdoor entertainment in the American home, but are they covered by your homeowners insurance? Sure trampolines and tree houses are fun–what’s not to like about bouncing extra high a few feet above the ground or hanging out with your friends among the trees? But before you let the […]
Read MoreHoliday Safety Tips: Fourth of July & Fireworks
The 4th of July is a great day for celebration, but some things, like fireworks, should really be left to the professionals. Independence Day is America’s birthday, and every American celebrates with hotdogs, hamburgers, and fireworks. While not legal in all 50 states, some families celebrate by setting of their own fireworks right in their […]
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