American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA)
and the Impact on COBRA

The DOL published model notices that addressed the temporary reduction in COBRA premiums required by ARRA. ARRA reduces the COBRA premium to 35% of the full cost for a period of nine months. Employers were required to send this notice to employees whose loss of coverage occurred between September 1, 2008 and December 31, 2009. Eligible employees were to be notified no later than April 18, 2009.

Employers will recover the 65% by taking it as a credit on their quarterly tax return on form 941, line 12B. Additionally, the DOL has published comprehensive FAQ's and links regarding ARRA. Learn more »

Should you have any concerns regarding this, please don't hesitate contacting us at groupservice@gweiner.com.

The Children's Health Program
Reauthorization Act of 2009 (CHIPRA)

CHIPRA extends and expands on the state Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Group health plans are required to comply with certain changes as early as April 1, 2009.
For more detail »

Swine Flu Outbreak Raises Concerns Over Pandemic

The recent outbreak of Swine Flu (H1 N1 Flu) in Mexico and the United States has people wondering if their businesses are prepared. Attached, is a Pandemic Guideline published by our partner, Health Advocate. For more information about Pandemic Planning or to find out more on Health Advocate, please contact us. Read more »

Insurance Products Evolve in the Face of Rising Healthcare Costs

As insurance premiums steadily climb, employers have been forced to shift an increasing amount of responsibility to their employee population. This has been accomplished through larger payroll deductions and/or higher deductibles and copays.

In response to this increased individual employee risk, specific insurance products have been developed to address this ever-growing gap. These products are often offered at various levels so the employee can choose if they want to protect themselves against the added exposure of a higher deductible. Products are reasonably priced since the benefit is typically limited to a specific dollar amount and can be customized to meet the needs of the employer. If you would like additional information regarding these products please contact us.