EEOC Releases New ADA Wellness Notice

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) recently posted a sample notice for employer-sponsored wellness programs that must comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations that were recently issued.

Why Small Businesses Need To Offer Medical Plans Now More Than Ever:

In 2010, Congress passed the Affordable Care Act, which changed the world of insurance forever.  Since 2010 we have seen the cost of individual insurance increase drastically. This year alone Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas is asking to increase premiums by as much as 60%.  This is not good because most other states usually follow along with what Texas does. This means nationwide people with individual insurance plans could see rate increases anywhere from 40-60%. First, let’s take a look at why rates are going up and then discuss what is going to happen and what needs to be done.

The Ins and Outs of Tobacco vs. Non-Tobacco Rates

Many of our current clients, as well as small businesses across the country, are considering introducing tobacco vs. non-tobacco rates.  This article can be your cheat sheet for figuring out if the rates are right for you and how to introduce them to employees.

What rates can you charge?

There are essentially three options when it comes to tobacco rates.

1. Charge up to a 50% differential for employees that self-report
2.  Up to a 30% differential when clinical testing is used to determine if there is tobacco use
3.  A flat $50/month fee

The most common are charging the $50 a month fee because it makes the individual changes easier.