News & Events

Benefits Breakdown August 2025 | Virginia Benefits Team

HHS Announces Support From Insurers for Changes to Prior Authorization A KFF survey revealed that about 1 in 6 insured adults say they’ve had prior authorization problems. U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that almost 50 health insurers, including Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, Cigna, Elevance Health, Humana and … Continued

Navigating Your Health Plan: A Guide to Your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) | Virginia Employee Benefits Agents

Ever found a confusing document in your mailbox after a doctor’s visit, wondering if it’s a bill, especially with an “amount you owe” at the bottom? You’re not alone! That document is most likely an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from your health insurance company. It’s crucial to remember: an EOB is NOT a bill. Think … Continued

The Truth About FSAs: Facts, Myths, and Tips | VA Employee Benefits Group

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) offer unique advantages for managing health and dependent care expenses, but they operate differently from standard savings or spending accounts. Below are five essential facts about FSAs, along with common myths and clarifications to help you make the most of this benefit. Key FSA Facts: Tax Advantages: A major perk of … Continued

Breaking Down Your Benefits: Understanding Key Terms | Virginia Employee Benefits Advisors

Selecting the right health insurance plans for your family is a critical process that requires careful attention from start to finish. Navigating health insurance becomes much simpler when you understand its terminology. Making sense of these terms empowers you to better understand your costs, benefits, and even estimate the price of a doctor’s visit. Premium: … Continued

Benefits Breakdown Newsletter – July 2025 | Virginia Benefits Consultants

U.S. Prescription Drug Spending Rose 10.2% in 2024 A new report  from the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists revealed that prescription drug spending in the United States reached nearly $806 billion in 2024, up 10.2% from 2023. The increase was largely driven by the demand for weight loss medications, including glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) drugs. GLP-1 … Continued

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