Author: MDG Benefits Admin
ACA Update: IRS Announces 2027 Cost-Sharing Limit
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On January 29, 2026, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) officially released the maximum cost-sharing limits for the 2027 plan year. These figures represent a significant 13.2% increase over the 2026 limits, marking a substantial shift in potential out-of-pocket expenses for plan participants. 2027 Maximum Out-of-Pocket Limits For 2027, the maximum annual…
Navigating Health Plan Options: A Quick Guide
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Choosing a health insurance plan can feel a lot like solving a puzzle—there are many moving pieces, and the best fit depends on how they come together for your unique situation. With so many options and acronyms—HMO, PPO, POS, EPO, HDHP—it’s easy to feel unsure about where to start. This guide breaks down the most…
2026 ACA Reporting Guide: Key Deadlines and Compliance Requirements
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Employers must prepare for Affordable Care Act (ACA) reporting covering the 2025 calendar year. Staying ahead of these deadlines is critical for Applicable Large Employers (ALEs) and providers of self-insured health plans. Who is Required to Report? Reporting obligations under Internal Revenue Code Sections 6055 and 6056 fall into two main categories: Note for Self-Insured…
Staying Covered and Healthy: Understanding Premiums, Subsidies, and Preventive Care
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The Affordable Care Act (ACA) created a federally financed subsidy, known as the premium tax credit (PTC), to help eligible individuals and families with low to moderate incomes afford health insurance purchased through an Exchange. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress temporarily enhanced the PTC by eliminating the income cap for eligibility and increasing the subsidy…
Pulse Check: 4 Simple Ways to Boost Your Heart Health
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February is often filled with symbols of love, but it’s also the perfect time to focus on the most important heart of all—your own. American Heart Month serves as a vital reminder that cardiovascular health is the foundation of a long, vibrant life. Heart disease remains a leading health challenge globally, but the good news…
Educating Your Workforce: Unlocking the Power of Voluntary Benefits
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Offering voluntary benefits is an excellent way to strengthen your overall benefits package, stand out from competitors, and enhance employee satisfaction—all with minimal impact on your budget. However, while employers often provide a wide range of voluntary benefits designed to offer value and convenience, many employees may not fully understand what these benefits are or…
Educating Employees on Increasing Healthcare Costs
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Health care costs in the United States continue to rise, increasing pressure on both employers and employees. Organizations that provide health benefits must balance growing expenses with transparency and trust from their workforce. Clear, compassionate communication is key to helping employees understand and navigate these rising costs. Consider these strategies: Craft messaging that is clear,…
Taking Charge: A Guide to Health Literacy
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Building your health care literacy is one of the most powerful ways to take control of your well-being. Health literacy refers to your ability to locate, understand, and apply health information when making decisions about your care. Whether it’s interpreting medical terms or navigating complicated insurance options, strong health literacy can ease stress, prevent confusion,…
Compliance Guide: New 2026 Rules for HSA Expansion
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The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) was signed into law on July 4, 2025, introducing significant updates to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). Following this, the IRS released Notice 2026-5 to provide specific guidance on how these changes expand HSA eligibility and usage. The OBBBA broadens HSA availability through the following key provisions: 1. Permanent…
How to Make the Most Out of Your HSA in 2026
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A Health Savings Account (HSA) is a tax-advantaged savings account designed to help you pay for healthcare expenses. It offers valuable benefits now and in the future — from lowering your current healthcare costs to building long-term savings for retirement. Understand the Basics Triple Tax Advantage: HSAs provide three powerful tax benefits — contributions are…