Advisor strategies

Is the end of employer-provided health insurance near? The heads of Zane Benefits say it is and claim a paradigm shift is moving the benefits industry toward defined contribution employer-funded health care, instead.

Advisers need to stay current on technology regulations to help employers, many of which are using multiple IT systems — a strategy that could lead to penalties.

Republican House members are challenging the DOL’s efforts to require retirement advisers to follow a fiduciary standard, saying it reduces access to options and conflicts with the Dodd-Frank Act.

Commentary: Six ways to engage customers that are most helpful, according to sales expert John Graham.

Commentary: These C-suite level positions are needed for a brokerage to run right, says MarshBerry’s Rob Lieblein.

Commentary: Sometimes the market changes in a way where these size businesses may be better positioned for success. Now may be that time, says tech adviser Joe Markland.

Health coverage is now part of a tax return, and individuals are seeking advice to ensure they file correctly.

Commentary: HR professionals must band together to share how we are handling our ACA reporting responsibilities and to pressure our vendor suppliers for better solutions and continued innovation, says Lockton's Matthew Kaiser.

Commentary: There’s a lot for your clients to consider when carefully managing intermittent leaves. The Standard's Lincoln Dirks goes in-depth on the paperwork that outlines the parameters for an absence — certifications and recertifications.

Increasingly diverse workforces are creating a benefit communications challenge for employers and their advisers.

Between new players entering the insurance business and a new generation poised to dominate their sales base, brokers must re-evaluate the way they do business.

Eastbridge Consulting research finds brokers are the dominant distribution channel, but they must use their position wisely to curb dropping participation rates.

Legislators urge brokers to contact Congress to help shape future policies.

Embracing private exchange solutions is, some say, imperative for brokers who want to survive in the industry, yet many remain confused about just how to do so.

More tools are needed to support brokers as they help consumers navigate the complex health care law, Healthcare.gov CEO Kevin Counihan says.

Assurant Health says it will no longer pay commissions on new business in certain markets, a move the carrier calls a sales approach, but some industry experts say is part of a trend that’s pushing agents out of business.

The plan would require brokers to act in a customer’s best interest, a change that could limit the earnings of financial advisers.

Having more choices is a priority, but most workers are confident in their employer’s selection, study finds.

Agentreview.net launches this month, aiming to give consumers one location to find and critique local insurance agents.

Five years down the road, the insurance broker’s role in health insurance may be diminished, largely due to exchanges, consultants say. The role of the broker will change greatly in the process, they say, but in the near term it is a mixed story.