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Is an Employer Still Required to Provide Paid Sick Leave Due to a COVID-19 Diagnosis?

The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) established a 100% COBRA premium subsidy for assistance eligible individuals (AEI) for the period April 1st, 2021 through September 30th, 2021.

2020 has been a challenging year for both employees and employers. Many employers have moved towards a more mobile workforce, where possible. Other companies have been required to adapt to new and changing guidelines on how to stay safe in the workplace. 

VantagePoint Waives New COBRA Administration Fees for 6 Months* Furloughs, layoffs, and COBRA rules Did you know? When the carriers revert to their eligibility minimum this creates a COBRA event. If a furloughed employee is ultimately discharged this creates a COBRA event. If a full-time employee returns on a part-time basis, this creates a COBRA …

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The Departments of Treasury and Labor, along with the IRS has created a time-frame extension affecting group health and welfare, disability, and pension plans due to COVID-19. These new rules apply for 60 days after the announced end of the declared National Emergency. This 60-day period is now called the ‘Outbreak Period’.

Benefit Enhancements OTC Pre-Tax Reimbursement Over-the-Counter Prescriptions (OTC) no longer need a physician’s prescription. This applies to Flexible Spending plans (FSA) or Health Saving Accounts (HSA). It can be retroactively applied on 1/1/2020. Adopting this will require adjustments to your Section 125 plan documents. If you are not familiar with a Section 125 document (they …

Continue reading “How Does the CARES Act Enhances My Benefits?”

Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act How does this law help my business? Expert Summary from the VantagePoint Team: While all the details are not out yet, we wanted to get this in your hands as soon as possible. Here is a summary of the programs

What is the impact on employee contributions, unemployment and employer obligation to pay? Insider Pro-Tips from the VantagePoint Team: Employee Contributions: Q:) If employee contributions are taken from pay to cover a portion of insurance premiums plans, how will this money be collected

Common Challenges for a Small Business It is a challenge to know which benefits plans are required for a small business and what benefits employees actually expect. Adding to the challenge, states have different requirements that are mandatory for employers of different sizes. Small businesses should work with a professional organization that can help them …

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Most employers are in the middle of their re-enrollment period right now, one of the busiest times of the year for HR departments. It is important to understand what other companies are offering in the competition for talent in order to help you recruit and retain the best. In this article, you’ll find the most …

Continue reading “Employee Benefits Trends for 2020”