Facing heavy pressure from industry, HHS rescinds health plan identifier
The Department of Health and Human Services has eliminated the need for health plans to use a standard unique health plan identifier, effective December 27.
Practice and client management
Seeking stability, Cetera embraces 401(k)s
The IBD network's AdvicePay integration could help the firm convert more retirement plan business into wealth management clients as it completes a record year for new assets.
Buyout or pension? The heavyweight bout of retirement decisions
Buyout amounts are high right now, but there are many other factors to consider when guiding employees to the right choice.
Benefits Think The insurance business is due for an upgrade
Insurtech startups are building infrastructure at a breakneck pace. Can your business keep up?
Jason Andrew
Limelight Health
Benefits Think It’s time for clients to try reference-based pricing. Here’s why it works
The U.S. spent more on healthcare than any other country. Could this provide a solution?
David Drake
BXS Insurance
Zywave ramps up R&D with new software updates
The insurance technology company is adding new capabilities to its tool for brokers, including a machine learning capability.
Benefits Think Gig economy benefits focus on convenience, lifestyle offerings
The “pure joy” of being your own boss is one advantage of working in the gig economy. Finding good benefits is another story.
Walden Siew
Arizent
Benefit pros on the move: OneDigital, Prudential, AIG, Alera
Executives continue to change jobs in the insurance and benefits spaces.
Benefits Think The future is now: Optimize the value of your business for that potential sale
Nail down the fundamentals today for a successful strategic exit plan tomorrow.
Jack Kwicien
Daymark Advisors
Are employers getting better at benefits communication?
Some employers have seen success by personalizing open enrollment strategies.
USI continues to grow with South Carolina brokerage buy
Agency M&A activity shows no signs of slowing down, with 490 reported transactions so far this year.
Here’s what employers really want in a benefits broker
Advisers are being asked to take on more consultative roles, but there are a few ways they can improve their services.
Benefits Think Steps to move beyond the benefits status quo
Advanced next-generation benefits strategies require time and effort to master, but here are some simple steps to implement your plan.
10 least stressful jobs
University professor and hair stylist are ranked as some of the less trying jobs, according to a CareerCast survey.
Benefits Think Challenge yourself to get better in the retirement market
One way for advisers to improve is to start building your skill set by talking to several 401(k) carriers, beginning with existing plans.
Tom Fowler
Fowler Financial Group
5 key strategies for implementing a successful financial wellness program
Brokers should view themselves as the “quarterbacks directing the play” when bringing this benefit to employers, one consultant said.
Benefits Think How to create a targeted client testimonial marketing plan that packs a big punch
Let them do the bragging for you as you build a small library of niche narratives.
Jack Kwicien
Daymark Advisors
5 ways clients can make diabetes education programs more inclusive
Workers struggling with the condition may hide it from their employer, but these tips can help break the cycle.
Advisers: Want to keep your clients? Start focusing on lifestyle benefits
Benefit vendors say employers will look elsewhere if their brokers don't bring trending voluntary benefits to their attention.
5 ways employers can make diabetes education programs more inclusive
Workers struggling with the condition may hide it from their company, but these tips can help break the cycle.
