Employer Strategies

When unburdened by administrative tasks, an HR department has the ability to evolve into a more efficient and effective team, says Hodges-Mace’s Mike Ehrle.

Initial claims for the week ending Sept. 23 rose 12,000 to 272,000, according to Labor Department data released Thursday.

New coverages, such as follow-up care and gunshot protection, have more employers offering to pay for the product, as growth doubles year-over-year.

A growing number of employers are embracing a transient workforce and luring in top talent with attractive benefits designed to fit this demographic.

Disparities are more pronounced for retirement than healthcare plans, largely due to the elimination of company pensions.

According to WalletHub research, these cities top the list in affordability, quality of life and healthcare.

In the wake of the GOP’s latest failure to pass health reform, Big ‘I,’ NAIFA, NAHU and others target repeal of Cadillac tax, increasing use of HSAs.

The ERISA Industry Committee and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce want the Cadillac and Health Insurance taxes eliminated, citing the impact of premium increases for 2018.

Saving too much for retirement could force clients to take loans or make withdrawals that would carry taxes and penalties.

The Graham-Cassidy repeal bill is dead this week, but benefits executives are banking on Affordable Care Act improvements, including elimination of the Cadillac tax and a bigger focus on controlling healthcare costs.