New Model Forms Released: Health Insurance Exchange Notices and Revised COBRA Election Notice
Employers and group health plan administrators will want to download new model notices released by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) to comply with changes as a result of Health Care Reform. New Model Exchange Notices — Distribute to Employees No Later Than October 1, 2013
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Employers are required to provide the written notice to each current employee not later than October 1, 2013, and to each new employee at the time of hiring beginning October 1, 2013 (a notice will generally be considered to be provided ‘at the time of hiring’ if it is furnished within 14 days of an employee’s start date).
Employers must provide the notice automatically and free of charge to each employee, regardless of plan enrollment status or of part-time or full-time status. The notice may be distributed by first-class mail, or electronically if certain requirements are met. Employers do not need to provide a separate notice to dependents or other individuals who are or may become eligible for coverage under the plan but who are not employees. Updated Model COBRA Election Notice COBRA generally requires plan administrators to provide eligible individuals (called ‘qualified beneficiaries’) an election notice within 14 days after receiving notice of a qualifying event. The updated model notice includes additional information for qualified beneficiaries who may want to consider and compare health coverage alternatives to COBRA that will be available through the Health Insurance Exchanges (Marketplaces), which are expected to begin operating in 2014. Check out our Group Health Plan Notices Calendar for information on other notice requirements and to download additional model notices. |
New Version of Form I-9
Employers Must Use New Version of Form I-9 Beginning May 7, 2013
Employers needing additional time to switch to the new Form I-9 (released in March) have until May 7th to begin using the revised version. Federal law requires all U.S. employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of employees hired to work in the United States by completing Form I-9.
Prior versions of the Form I-9 will no longer be accepted effective May 7th, 2013. Employers should not complete a new Form I-9 for current employees if a properly completed Form I-9 is already on file.
(SBC) Summary of Benefits and Coverage for 2014
New Summary of Benefits and Coverage Template for 2014
Employers responsible for distributing a summary of benefits and coverage (SBC) to employees in connection with group health plan coverage will need to include additional language to satisfy new requirements under Health Care Reform becoming effective in 2014. An updated SBC template, which includes the new language, is now available for SBCs provided with respect to coverage beginning on or after January 1, 2014 and before January 1, 2015. SBC Notice Requirements New Language Required for 2014 |
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The updated SBC template includes additional language indicating whether the plan provides “minimum essential coverage” (the type of coverage an individual needs to satisfy the individual responsibility requirement), and whether the plan meets the “minimum value” standard under Health Care Reform (meaning the plan pays for at least 60% of covered health care expenses).
FAQs issued simultaneously provide some relief for plans already working on preparing SBCs for 2014, where adding the new information to the template would present an administrative burden. To the extent a plan is unable to modify the SBC template for coverage beginning on or after January 1, 2014 and before January 1, 2015, a plan may use the previously authorized template, so long as the SBC is furnished with a cover letter or similar disclosure stating whether the plan does or does not provide “minimum essential coverage” and “minimum value.” |
Stress at Work Solutions
5 Tips for Keeping Stress at Work in Check
Stress in the workplace, whether triggered by significant workloads or pressing deadlines, can sidetrack employees and prevent them from doing their best. The following simple steps for managers and employees can help reduce the pressure and increase team performance and productivity:
- Avoid Setting Unrealistic Goals. Setting achievable goals with reasonable timelines helps your sense of accomplishment grow while your stress level declines.
- Step-Out Complicated Projects. Dividing a complex project into phases provides specific direction, helps maintain a calm environment, and motivates the team. Daily or weekly to-do lists can also help prioritize tasks.
- Make Time for Meetings and Completing Tasks. Blocking out the time necessary to complete a task on your calendar is just as important as scheduling time for meetings.
- Communicate Regularly. Recognizing employee achievements can increase confidence, as well as reduce stress related to workloads. Employees may also be able to help identify new ways that they can contribute.
- Schedule Time for Exercise. A regular exercise routine can help lower stress and recharge your batteries for the challenges ahead.
Does Your Health Plan Pass Section 105(h) Nondiscrimination rules?
Plan sponsors are required to do annual discrimination testing to remain qualified. The testing is two part; “The Benefits Test” and “The Eligibility Test”. Failure to properly preform and report these annual test can result in a failing plan. Penalties can include benefits becoming taxable as income! If you are not sure if your plan is in compliance gives us a call we can help!
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