October 30, 2020
AgencyCOVID-19 vaccines must be covered at no cost, CMS says
COVID-19 vaccines must be covered at no cost, CMS says The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services is mandating that all Americans have access to a COVID-19 vaccine, when it becomes available, at no out-of-pocket cost. The agency’s interim final rule makes clear that private insurers must cover the vaccine at no charge to beneficiaries. […]
October 30, 2020
AgencyTrump rule says health plans must disclose costs up front
Trump rule says health plans must disclose costs up front Trying to pull back the veil on health care costs to encourage competition, the Trump administration on Thursday finalized a requirement for insurers to tell consumers up front the actual prices for common tests and procedures. A major health insurance industry group said the regulation […]
October 28, 2020
AgencyHow to bridge the health insurance knowledge gap for younger employees
How to bridge the health insurance knowledge gap for younger employees With the passage of the Affordable Care Act, young adults were able to stay on their parents health insurance plans until the age of 26. But once they get their own health insurance, many young employees make common and costly mistakes because they don’t […]
October 20, 2020
AgencyPremiums for HealthCare.gov Plans Are Lower for Third Consecutive Year
Premiums for HealthCare.gov Plans Are Lower for Third Consecutive Year Today, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released a report showing the trend of lower premiums and increased issuer participation for HealthCare.gov will continue for 2021 year.
October 14, 2020
AgencySocial Security COLA announced for 2021
Social Security COLA announced for 2021 There will be a 1.3% cost-of-living adjustment for Social Security beneficiaries in 2021, the government announced. The maximum amount of wages subject to Social Security taxation will increase from $137,700 in 2020 to $142,800 next year.
October 7, 2020
AgencyIn the midst of COVID-19, knowing your employee health and insurance benefits is more crucial than e
In the midst of COVID-19, knowing your employee health and insurance benefits is more crucial than ever According to new Voya Employee Benefits research, to help protect their families during these uncertain times more than 70% of American workers plan to spend more time reviewing their workplace benefits ahead of open enrollment this fall, and […]
October 5, 2020
AgencyHow the COVID-19 crisis has highlighted the need for life insurance benefits
How the COVID-19 crisis has highlighted the need for life insurance benefits An employer’s insurance offerings are a core consideration when choosing a job, so it’s critical that in addition to comprehensive health insurance, you’re also offering robust life insurance options.
September 30, 2020
AgencyCMS lowers Medicare Advantage premiums: 3 things to know
CMS lowers Medicare Advantage premiums: 3 things to know Average premiums for Medicare Advantage plans will be an average 11% lower for the 2021 plan year compared to this year, CMS said Sept. 24. Here are three things to know.
September 30, 2020
AgencyTrump signs U.S. healthcare executive orders that may have little impact
Trump signs U.S. healthcare executive orders that may have little impact President Donald Trump signed two executive orders as part of his America First Healthcare Plan calling for coverage of preexisting conditions and directing HHS to work with lawmakers on legislation to protect patients from unexpected out-of-network medical bills. Trump also said the administration […]
September 9, 2020
AgencyBecause Of COVID-19: People Are Losing Health Insurance
Because Of COVID-19: People Are Losing Health Insurance There are few aspects of life that have not been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Side Effects Public Media has launched a Facebook Live series called “Because of COVID-19” to examine these ripple effects and offer solutions and resources. Our first edition looked at the way many […]