News & Events

From Reactive to Proactive: Empowering Employees Through Preventive Care | VA Benefits Agency

  In the world of employee benefits, we often spend our time talking about what happens when things go wrong—surgeries, emergency room visits, and specialist consultations. Today, the most successful organizations are shifting the conversation toward what happens when things go right. Teaching your employees about preventive care is more than just a wellness initiative; … Continued

The Power of Health Literacy: How Smarter Choices Can Lead to Bigger Savings | VA Employee Benefits Advisors

Navigating the healthcare system is rarely a straight line. Between deciphering insurance jargon and choosing the right doctor, the decisions you make have a direct impact on your physical health and your bank account. As healthcare costs continue to rise—ranking as a top economic concern for two-thirds of Americans—personal health literacy has become an essential … Continued

Midyear Compliance: Key Disclosure Deadlines for Group Health Plans | Virginia Employee Benefits Agents

As the calendar year progresses, employers that sponsor group health plans should take steps to stay ahead of key midyear compliance obligations. Federal reporting and disclosure requirements under laws such as the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) and the No Surprises Act must be addressed during the … Continued

Wellness Works: Spring 2026 | Virginia Benefits Consultants

Spring into Motion: Strengthening Your Heart A new study published in BMJ Heart, a leading journal for cardiovascular advances, has found a powerful connection between your walking speed and your heart rhythm. According to the research, people who maintain an average or brisk walking pace have a 35% to 43% lower risk of developing heart … Continued

Filing Form 5500 | Virginia Benefits Team

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

Navigating Health Plan Options: A Quick Guide | VA Employee Benefits Advisors

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 … Continued

Health Insurance Made Easy Newsletter – March 2026 | Virginia Employee Benefits Agents

Your health insurance member identification (ID) card is proof of your coverage and a vital source of health plan information. It allows you to access medical care, verify coverage and ensure accurate billing. However, because these cards often include various numbers, terms and abbreviations, they can be challenging to understand and confusing to use. Whether … Continued

ACA Update: IRS Announces 2027 Cost-Sharing Limits | Virginia Benefits Consultants

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 … Continued

Benefits and Me | VA Benefits Agency

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 … Continued

2026 ACA Reporting Guide: Key Deadlines and Compliance Requirements | VA Employee Benefits Group

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: Self-Insured Health Plan … Continued