Benefits

When people misunderstand their health care options, they may not spend their health care dollars optimally.

One in three employers outsource all their benefits administration, up 20% since 2013.

The 2016 medical trend rate in North America is estimated at 5.8%, while the annual general inflation rate is 1.5%, according to an Aon Hewitt report.

Two in five employers surveyed say they are unfamiliar with new forms required by the IRS in 2016.

Most companies implementing a fitness initiative in the new year started planning back in November, but it's not too late to harness new year’s resolutions energy.

A new survey and research report from Aon Hewitt reveals large employers plan to expand the depth and breadth of financial well-being programs in the year ahead.

A committee’s approval of a bill comes after the DOL proposed guidance for states to establish such plans.

More retirement plan sponsors are beginning to consider overall financial literacy and wellness programs for plan participants.

No formal legislation has been put in writing, but some lawmakers and lobbying groups are trying to prevent that from happening.

Some employers are starting to see wellness programs as a business imperative.

Only one-third said the well-being initiatives offered by their employers encouraged them to live healthier lifestyles.

It will get harder over the years to avoid the excise tax, Mercer says.

Industry insiders are divided about whether this is a good idea.

Health savings accounts can be used much like defined contribution plans to save for retirement, and the key to growth is investing them.

Retirement plan sponsors and advisers will need to revamp education for participants to reflect changes in Social Security claiming strategies.

Even if employees are convinced to sign up for an HDHP with an HSA, they may experience disappointment when they use the plan, so ongoing communications are needed.

However, employees are paying a greater share of health care costs than ever.

The group suggests other efforts to address the retirement savings crisis in America.

More employers are self-funding their health plans and wellness program components are changing.

Avoiding the ACA excise tax and using preventive services are also top health benefits goals.