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?

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

The Future of Leadership: Human Connection in a Digital World | VA Employee Benefits Group

In an era defined by rapid technological advancement, the nature of leadership is evolving at an unprecedented pace. As artificial intelligence, remote work, and digital communication tools become increasingly integrated into our professional lives, the role of human connection in leadership has never been more crucial. The future of leadership will hinge on the ability … Continued

Voluntary Benefits: The Missing Piece of Your Compensation Puzzle

The Rise of Voluntary Benefits As healthcare costs increase, so does the demand for voluntary benefits. These optional benefits allow employees to select and pay for additional perks to meet their individual needs, especially in today’s diverse workforce. They’re also a valuable supplement to health insurance, particularly as healthcare expenses rise and affordability becomes a … Continued

Compliance Overview: Voluntary Benefits – ERISA Compliance Exemption

Voluntary benefits are optional benefits that employers may offer to enhance their traditional benefits packages. Offering voluntary benefits allows an employer to include a variety of benefits that are attractive to employees in their benefits package without adding to their organization’s costs. While voluntary benefits are typically employee-paid, payments can be automatically deducted from employees’ … Continued

The Big Differences Among Generations at Work | Virginia Benefits Advisors

The generations at work – Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, and Baby Boomers – continue to fascinate business leaders and especially those in HR, who are charged with talent management. Trying to understand each generation’s attitudes, habits, and history is important. While each person is unique, these shared generational experiences can help people better orchestrate teams and get the most out of … Continued

Disability Insurance Explained: Short-Term Disability | VA Employee Benefits Firm

Life sometimes throws you a curveball. You might sprain an ankle playing soccer, need surgery, or experience a difficult pregnancy. These situations can temporarily prevent you from working and earning an income. That’s where short-term disability insurance comes in. It acts as a financial safety net, providing income replacement while you recover and get back … Continued