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...

 The February 2025 edition of our Live Well, Work Well newsletter focuses on:  Topic #1: The Mediterranean diet and why it’s the best  Topic #2: How to build heart-healthy habits  Topic #3: The benefits of strength training  Bonus recipe of the month: Confetti grain salad  [Download the latest edition today]   Share our newsletter with your team  Encourage your team to thrive by sharing our Live Well, Work Well newsletter! Packed with valuable insights on health, wellness and work-life balance, this monthly publication is designed to help employees lead healthier, happier lives both inside and outside the workplace.    By sharing this resource, you can foster a positive work environment, promote well-being and demonstrate your commitment to employee wellness. Get caught up by reading our latest edition on trending tips to try this year.  Questions? TruePlan can help   If you have questions about this issue, contact ...

The battle for top talent isn’t over. While employee quits declined in 2024, studies suggest turnover could surge in 2025, with 38% of employees considering a job change. To stay ahead, organizations must adapt to these key trends.  [I Want the Trends Now]   The workforce trends that will shape 2025  1. Unemployment rates above 4%  A slowing job market may shift leverage back to employers, but competition for skilled talent remains fierce.  2. AI and automation in the workplace  As artificial intelligence reshapes jobs, companies must invest in upskilling to attract and retain a future-ready workforce.  3. Demand for GLP-1 weight loss drugs  With more employees factoring GLP-1 coverage into job decisions, employers must weigh the financial impact of adding these medications to benefits packages.  4. Return-to-office push  Companies are tightening in-office mandates, but balancing flexibility with business needs remains critical to retent...

The employee benefits landscape is shifting and organizations that stay ahead of these changes will have a competitive edge in attracting and retaining top talent. With workforce expectations evolving around healthcare, family support and financial wellness, understanding the latest trends is more critical than ever. Here’s a preview of the five key trends shaping employee benefits in 2025.  [Give Me the Full Report]   Five key 2025 trends shaping employee benefits  1. Regulatory changes on the horizon  The new administration in Washington could bring significant shifts in healthcare policies, from Affordable Care Act subsidies to Medicare and Medicaid adjustments. Employers must be prepared for potential impacts on benefits structures.  2. Rising healthcare costs and plan adjustments  With costs projected to increase by 7% to 8%, many employers are considering plan redesigns, including higher deductibles and cost-sharing models. Understanding these shifts ...

A strong finish to a strong year  2024 was a remarkable year for investors. After an outstanding 26.29% return in 2023, the S&P 500 posted another strong performance in 2024, gaining 25.02% . While concerns over inflation and interest rate policy loomed at the beginning of the year, a resilient U.S. economy, advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and strong corporate earnings helped sustain investor confidence.  [Download the Full Market Recap ]  Key market highlights from Q4 2024  Equities: The S&P 500 gained 2.41% in Q4, ending the year on a high note. While the "Magnificent Seven" tech giants dominated early in the year, the rally broadened in Q4, supporting small- and mid-cap stocks.  Fixed income: Despite three Federal Reserve rate cuts in 2024, bond markets remained volatile. The Bloomberg US Aggregate declined 3.06% in Q4 as investors reassessed the pace of future cuts.  Global markets: European markets struggled due to rising populism a...

As of Jan 1., New York's new paid prenatal leave law now requires private employers to provide 20 hours of paid prenatal personal leave annually for employees receiving healthcare services during pregnancy. To help businesses navigate this landmark amendment to the state’s paid sick leave law, New York published detailed frequently asked questions.  Access the full story now for all the important details and recordkeeping items.  Highlights of the mandate  Applies to all private-sector employees, including part-time workers.  Separate from annual sick leave, with no accrual or waiting period — employees can use all 20 hours immediately.  Covers prenatal appointments, including fertility treatments and end-of-pregnancy care.  Employers cannot dictate which leave type an employee must use or require medical documentation.  Employers are advised to maintain clear records to ensure compliance and to assist employees in understanding their leave balances....

The Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) requirements continue to evolve, bringing critical updates for employers sponsoring group health plans. For 2025, new rules and thresholds are taking effect, impacting affordability percentages, cost-sharing limits and reporting requirements.  Access your checklist today and continue learning about this year’s key updates.  Key updates for 2025  Affordability percentage: Slight increase under the employer mandate, offering applicable large employers (ALEs) more flexibility with employee contribution rates.  Cost-sharing limits: Adjusted for essential health benefits.  Reporting deadlines:   March 3, 2025: Individual statements for 2024 must be provided.  March 31, 2025: Electronic IRS returns for 2024 are due.  Employers must review and update health plan documents, including the summary of benefits and coverage (SBC), to reflect these changes. Additionally, clear communication during open enrollment will be e...