A medical expense reimbursement plan (MERP) offers many benefits to employers and employees. Employers can lower healthcare costs and adjust their plans each year, while employees can still get the right level of care. However, as single and family coverage premiums rise, organizations have been forced to explore structurally sound solutions to this issue. A […]

Hiring top talent drives innovation, improves productivity, and ultimately puts businesses ahead of the competition. By curating an appealing set of benefits, businesses are more likely to attract hardworking employees and experience these qualities within their operations. As the average cost of employee turnover equates to around 33.3% of an employee’s base salary, better benefits also help […]

Choosing a healthcare provider can be challenging, as there are many factors to consider and options available to you. However, narrowing down your options is necessary to get the high-quality healthcare you need. Fortunately, with the right knowledge and tools, you can find the ideal healthcare provider for your needs. Explore practical tips and strategies […]

The cost of health insurance can have a significant impact on small businesses. Finding a comfortable balance between keeping costs down and providing the healthcare benefits your employees deserve is essential for employee retention. Introducing strategic funding is a viable way to pay for healthcare benefits rather than high-priced insurance plans. This guide explains how […]

Corporate Plans Retirement Strategies | Westchester County, NY This month, The Difference Card is proud to recognize Peter Swansen Jr. of Corporate Plans Retirement Strategies as our Broker of the Month. Pete is a trusted advisor who has spent years helping employers take control of rising healthcare costs through smarter strategy, better plan design, and […]

A Pennsylvania-based industrial waste management company was facing a painful health insurance renewal when UPMC Health Plan delivered a +42% increase for their February 2026 plan year. With more than 60 employees enrolled and prior-year benefits spend of approximately $800,000, this increase would have pushed total costs north of $1 million, well beyond what the […]

Every renewal season brings its fair share of heartbreak, but in Cupid’s Case Files, we’re spotlighting the employers who refused to settle for sky‑high premiums and lackluster benefits. With a little strategic matchmaking from The Difference Card and our broker partners, these organizations turned looming renewal increases into love‑at‑first‑savings moments. From dramatic turnarounds to guaranteed […]

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) significantly reshapes U.S. healthcare savings. It makes the most substantial update to health savings account (HSA) and flexible spending account (FSA) benefits in over a decade. The OBBBA revises eligibility, contribution limits, and plan design for employers, brokers, and benefit administrators. It also expands access and flexibility for […]

A professional employer organization (PEO) offers health insurance, among other benefits. Many small- to medium-sized businesses work with one. However, you can often get better coverage, flexibility, and cost savings if you work with a medical expense reimbursement plan (MERP). PEO contracts come with strings attached that limit your flexibility regarding coverage. Before making a decision, […]

Both a health savings account (HSA) and a flexible spending account (FSA) offer excellent benefits. The accounts provide an opportunity to pay for healthcare with pretax dollars, making it easier for employees to access the care they need. However, the choice you offer your employees comes with eligibility requirements based on various factors. Explore the differences between HSA and […]