Welcome to the March 2025 edition of Benefits Buzz! In this month's issue, we explore the latest developments in employee benefits, workplace policies and legal changes that may impact you. Stay informed with insights that help you effectively navigate your benefits.  This month's highlights  Topic #1: ERISA fiduciary breach claims dismissed in prescription drug lawsuit   A recent U.S. District Court ruling dismissed two claims in a lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson, alleging fiduciary breaches under Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). The court found the plaintiff lacked standing, emphasizing the complexities of fiduciary litigation related to prescription drug benefits.  Topic #2: DOL clarifies FMLA and state paid family leave programs   A new U.S. Department of Labor opinion letter explains how state-paid family and medical leave (PFML) interacts with the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). Employers must designate...

Welcome to the February 2025 edition of Benefits Buzz ! In this monthly issue, we dive into the latest topics related to employee benefits, wellness programs and ever-evolving workplace dynamics. Stay informed and gain insights that help you make the most of your benefits package.  This month's highlights  Topic #1: An overview of the new ACA reporting and penalty relief laws.   Topic #2: News on DOL increased civil penalty amounts for 2025.  Download the full story  For an in-depth look at this month's topics, download the PDF below. Dive deeper into the advice and guidance that can help you leverage your benefits to their fullest potential. Don't miss out on valuable insights that could improve your professional and personal life.  [Download the Full Story PDF]   Stay informed, stay empowered and make the most of your benefits with Benefits Buzz! Be sure to follow us on LinkedIn for monthly updates and never miss out on the latest in benefits n...

Welcome to the November 2024 edition of Benefits Buzz! This month, we dive into the latest topics related to Affordable Care Act (ACA) reporting for 2024 and updates on the IRS. Stay informed and gain insights that help you navigate new regulations and changes.  This month's highlights  Topic #1: ACA final forms and instructions for 2024 are now available.  Topic #2: IRS releases health FSA limits for 2025.  Download the full story  For an in-depth look at this month's topics, download the PDF below. Don't miss out on valuable insights regarding important 2024 forms and 2025 increases.  [Download the Full Story PDF]   Stay informed, stay empowered and make the most of your benefits with Benefits Buzz! Be sure to follow us on LinkedIn for monthly updates and never miss out on the latest in benefits news.  Have questions?  If you have questions, feel free to contact TruePlan . Our team of advisors can help you with questions within the scope ...

Welcome to the October 2024 edition of Benefits Buzz! In this blog post, we dive into the latest topics related to the IRS and the Affordable Care Act (ACA). We also examine the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) final rule.  This month's highlights  Highlight #1: On Sept. 6, the IRS released the affordability percentage threshold for 2025 plan years under the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) pay-or-play rules.  Highlight #2: On Sept. 9, DOL, Health and Human Services and the Treasury Departments released a final rule to strengthen the requirements of the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA).  Download the full story  For an in-depth look at this month's highlights, download the PDF below.   [Download the full story]   Stay informed, stay empowered and make the most of your benefits with Benefits Buzz! Be sure to follow us on LinkedIn for monthly updates and never miss out on the latest in benefits news.   ...

2024 Open Enrollment: 3 Preparation Strategies With the 2024 open enrollment season fast approaching, employers have an opportunity to develop attractive benefits offerings and proactively communicate with employees. Early preparation can help show employees they’re valued, convince top performers to stay in their current positions and attract new talent. Consider these three strategies to prepare for 2024 open enrollment: 1. Tailor benefits offerings Benefits offerings are one of the top reasons employees join companies and stay at their jobs. That’s why it’s critical for employers to speak with employees about which perks provide the most value. Adding or tweaking a few benefits options could be the difference between retaining and losing top performers. 2. Determine key messaging Benefits communications should account for employees’ desire to feel safe. Thus, key messaging should demonstrate how workplace offerings can protect employees. Outlining different benefits offerings can he...