A prominent New York university faced a significant challenge when its insurance carrier, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), proposed a 19% premium increase for January 2025. This would have pushed the university’s healthcare spending to over $14.6 million—exceeding its health insurance budget by $2 million. Seeking a solution, the university hired a new consultant […]

Today’s healthcare insurance space offers opportunities for producers that stand out from the crowd. However, differentiating yourself in this competitive landscape requires crafting client-centric insurance models with a personalized customer experience. Employers want bespoke solutions to suit their needs and priorities, and their expected standards for customer service are rising. To attract and retain high-value […]

When an employee makes a claim on their healthcare plan for a qualified expense, they typically have out-of-pocket costs to cover. These costs could be a copayment, coinsurance or deductible. In some cases, this amount can be substantial and difficult to afford. The good news is that there are ways to reduce these costs, helping […]

Many employers offer a health savings account (HSA) as part of their benefits package, but what if yours does not? It can leave you without a valuable tool for managing healthcare costs and saving on taxes. So, can you have an independent HSA? The answer is yes, as long as you meet the eligibility requirements. […]

As we step into a new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the journey we’ve shared through our monthly Cup of Joe blog series. Over the past year, we’ve tackled key topics in healthcare, employee benefits, and industry trends, delivering actionable insights to help you navigate the ever-changing benefits landscape. Join us as […]

A hybrid High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) is typically paired with a Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) or a Health Savings Account (HSA). It offers cost-saving and tax advantage benefits that can make healthcare more accessible to a broader demographic than traditional healthcare plans or a straight HDHP. What Is a Hybrid High Deductible Health Plan? […]

As healthcare prices continue to increase, employers need to find ways to lower these costs. A Medical Expense Reimbursement Plan (MERP) is a strategic tool companies use to help employees manage their out-of-pocket healthcare costs. MERP products are flexible and tax-advantaged, well-suited to small and large businesses and beneficial to both parties. By understanding the […]

Organizations have realized the competitive advantage of hiring diverse teams to optimize growth. As such, they must find ways to manage the different needs of their workforce. Allowing workers to tailor their healthcare with flexible benefits is one effective approach. Our guide explores flexible benefit plans and how they can help employers, workers and brokers save on […]

If you’re a broker, reducing costs like insurance premiums and deductibles can help you provide value to clients. Fortunately, you can achieve that through insurance cost management. This guide discusses the concept, including the benefits and the role of brokers. You will also learn common strategies, best practices and how The Difference Card helps. What […]

At Difference Card, we’re proud to partner with exceptional brokers who go above and beyond to deliver innovative solutions for their clients. This month, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on Dan DeStefano from Liberty Insurance Agency in Pennsylvania, whose dedication and expertise have made a meaningful impact in the employee benefits landscape. A Legacy […]