News & Events

ACA Update: Enhanced No-Cost Cancer Screenings for Women Coming in 2026 | VA Employee Benefits Group

Big changes are coming to women’s preventive care coverage!  Starting with plan years on or after December 31, 2025, group health plans and health insurance issuers must expand their no-cost coverage for women’s preventive care. This expansion includes additional breast cancer imaging or testing needed to complete an initial mammogram, as well as patient navigation … Continued

Supporting Your Workforce: The Value of Dependent Care Assistance Programs (DCAPs) | Virginia Employee Benefits Team

Want to attract and keep top talent? Your benefits package is crucial! Think beyond just health and retirement. Fringe benefits like Dependent Care Assistance Programs (DCAPs) offer real, meaningful support, especially for employees caring for kids or dependent adults. What is A DCAP? A DCAP – also known as a dependent care flexible spending account … Continued

Benefits and Me | Virginia Benefits Group

Tips to Save on Health Care Expenses Once again, healthcare costs are expected to rise this year. However, there are ways that you can reduce your spending. Consider these four tips: Brush up on your health plan knowledge. Knowing what your health plan does and doesn’t cover is critical for reducing your spending. Understanding terms … Continued

Benefits 101: What Is Cancer Insurance? | Virginia Benefits Advisors

The word “cancer” carries a weight that extends far beyond its medical implications. Beyond the physical and emotional toll, a cancer diagnosis can bring significant financial strain. While your primary health insurance will cover many treatment costs, there are often substantial out-of-pocket expenses that can quickly add up. This is where cancer insurance comes in. … Continued

Form 5500 Filing Requirements: Deadlines, Penalties, and Compliance Options | VA Employee Benefits Advisors

If your company provides an employee benefit plan governed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), you are likely obligated to file Form 5500. This annual report discloses key details about your organization’s benefit offerings, such as welfare benefit plans (including medical, dental, life, and disability coverage), retirement plans, fully insured plans, and self-funded … Continued

The Clock is Ticking: Don’t Miss the EEO-1 Report Deadline | Virginia Employee Benefits Consultants

The annual EEO-1 Report, mandated by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), is a cornerstone of workplace diversity and anti-discrimination efforts in the United States. This data collection provides a demographic snapshot of America’s workforce, helping to monitor for discrimination and promote equal employment opportunity. Missing the deadline can lead to serious consequences, making it … Continued

What is Mental Health and Wellness in HR? | Virginia Benefits Firm

Mental health and wellness in HR is the practice of employers caring about the health and stress management of their workers by providing support and resources to prevent burnout. Human Resources professionals include mental health and wellness benefits, such as insurance coverage, employee assistance programs (EAPs), access to apps and counseling, and more. Beyond traditional benefits, … Continued

Mind Matters: Supporting Employee Mental Health at Work | VA Employee Benefits Partners

Every year, millions of people experience mental health challenges with limited access to care. According to the World Health Organization, 1 in 8 people globally are affected. Conditions like anxiety and depression significantly reduce productivity, costing the global economy around $1 trillion annually. Despite the rising demand for support, more than two-thirds of those who … Continued

Disability Insurance Explained: Long-Term Disability | Virginia Benefits Group

Your most valuable asset isn’t your house, car or retirement account.  It’s the ability to make a living. Long-term disability insurance (LTD) provides financial protection by replacing a portion of your income—typically 50% to 70%—if you become unable to work due to a prolonged illness, injury, or accident.  This benefit is paid directly to you … Continued

Benefits Buzz Newsletter May 2025 | VA Employee Benefits Consultants

DOL Updates Model Employer CHIP Notice The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has released a new model Employer Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Notice with information current as of March 17, 2025. As a reminder, the Children’s Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2009 (CHIPRA) imposes an annual notice requirement on employers that maintain group … Continued