Federal Changes to HRA, HSA, and FSA
The IRS has released the official guidance under Revenue Procedure 2026-24. The guidance establishes updated contribution limits, out-of-pocket thresholds, and plan qualification rules for the 2027 calendar year.
AUI
What Employee Benefits Your Ohio Small Business Should Offer ?
If you’re trying to figure out what employee benefits a small business in Ohio should offer, you’re not alone. Don’t worry, you are not alone if you feel confused, there is a lot to business benefits. All the confusion is understandable. One article tells you that you’re legally required to offer health insurance, another says …
Navigating Health Insurance in 2026: Trends, Costs, and Rule Changes
Understanding health insurance is crucial in today’s world. As we approach 2026, we are expecting that the health insurance landscape will undergo significant changes.
Creative Alternatives for Small Businesses to Reduce Rising Health Insurance Costs
America’s healthcare insurance costs for small businesses continue to climb. In fact, earlier this year, “insurers had proposed a median 18 percent increase in premiums for next year, citing higher medical costs, a sicker risk pool due to the enhanced subsidy expiration, and other factors” according to the CAP. Which has left small businesses feeling the strain of providing …
IRS Employer Health Insurance Pay-or-Play Penalties to Rise 15.2% in 2026
The IRS has announced a significant increase in employer shared responsibility penalties for non-compliance with the Affordable Care Act (ACA) starting in 2026. These penalties, often referred to as the “pay-or-play” penalties, are designed to enforce employer obligations to provide affordable health insurance coverage to their full-time employees. The adjustment represents a 15.2% increase from …
Losing Medicaid Coverage? Here’s Why You Should Contact AUI Instead of Navigating the ACA Marketplace Alone
If you’ve recently lost Medicaid coverage, you’re not alone. Many individuals are being transitioned off Medicaid due to eligibility changes or the end of pandemic-related expansions. While the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace might seem like the logical next step, navigating it on your own can be overwhelming and costly. Instead of taking on this …
Why You Need a Healthcare Broker to Find Affordable Group Health Insurance
Navigating the world of health insurance can feel overwhelming that is why you need a healthcare broker like AUI. It is especially important when you are trying to find affordable group health insurance plans for your Ohio business. Whether you are a small business owner with a growing team or a solopreneur looking for the …
Understanding Open Enrollment Period in 2025
The open enrollment period is a critical time for individuals and small businesses alike, as it provides the opportunity to enroll in or make changes to health insurance plans. Depending on when your group plan renews, your time to research and plan for any changes may differ. For 2025, the individual open enrollment begins on …
Understanding Self-Funded Healthcare Plans for Small Businesses
Self-funded healthcare plans are becoming an increasingly popular option for small businesses. These small businesses are looking to manage their healthcare costs while providing flexible benefits to their employees. Unlike fully insured plans, where employers pay a fixed premium to an insurance company, self-funded plans allow businesses to pay for employee health claims directly. This …
Recruit & Retain with Voluntary Benefits
In 2025, the workplace is evolving faster than ever. Employees’ expectations have shifted, competition for top talent is fierce, today it is important to recruit and retain with voluntary benefits. Voluntary benefits are one of the most effective strategies for meeting these challenges. They offer a diverse range of optional perks that go beyond traditional …
Why Businesses Are Moving Away from Traditional Healthcare Plans: The Shift Toward Self-Funded Solutions
In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, companies are reevaluating their healthcare strategies more than ever. With rising costs and a growing need for flexibility, many businesses are turning away from traditional fully insured healthcare plans and exploring self-funded options. Did you know that the National Health Expenditure (NHE) grew 4.1% to $4.5 trillion in 2022, …
Navigating Voluntary Benefits for American Workers in the Service Industry
Traditionally, offering voluntary benefits for the Service Industry has not been prevalent. In fact, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, only around 70% of private industry workers in service-providing industries have access to medical care benefits. Today, the service industry, is a cornerstone of the American economy. It encompasses diverse roles from …
AUI Gives Back – Act #46 Chrissy Myers Speaks at WIN Cleveland Luncheon & Sponsors Event
AUI’s own Chrissy Myers was the keynote speaker at the WIN Cleveland Luncheon. Chrissy Myers is an inspiring storyteller who draws on her personal journey of overcoming adversity to empower others. Chrissy candidly shared her experiences of navigating life’s unexpected challenges, demonstrating how resilience can emerge even in the face of overwhelming circumstances. Her heartfelt …
AUI Gives Back – Act#45 Sponsor of the Taste Of Vintage for Goodwill Industries
Our sister company ClarityHR sponsored the Taste of Vintage as part of the 50 Years 50 Acts campaign for AUI. This signature event benefited Goodwill Industries. AUI’s Alice Rhodes volunteered to be a model at this year’s event. For more than a decade this elegant evening has showcased vintage fashion, fine dining, and community spirit. …
What Has Changed for the 2025 Open Enrollment?
The 2025 Open Enrollment period for health insurance introduces several notable updates, including changes in coverage options, cost structures, and policies that could affect individuals and families seeking coverage.
Why You Need A Health Insurance Broker To Help You With Individual Healthcare Needs
It’s not uncommon for most people to think that having a health insurance broker is not necessary when choosing a healthcare plan.
AUI Celebrates 50 Years with 50 Acts of Service
2024 marks an incredibly special milestone for AUI: 50 years of business in our community. To celebrate we are committing to completing fifty acts of service to celebrate our fifty years in business and show appreciation to the Northeast Ohio community who is responsible for our success. We cannot think of a better way to …
What Happens When an Employee Misses Group Open Enrollment?
When new employees join a company and miss their New Hire enrollment period, it typically means they cannot enroll in employee benefits (such as health insurance, dental coverage, retirement plans, etc.) That can mean that they can’t enroll until the next group open enrollment period. Unless they experience a qualifying life event that triggers a …
