More American workers offered ICHRAs and QSEHRAs, with no sign of slowing down

A new report from the HRA Council indicates that the number of employees in the United States offered insurance through an Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangement (ICHRA) tripled between 2022 and 2023; those offered a Qualified Small Employer HRA (QSEHRA) at organizations with fewer than 50 employees doubled during the same time period.

“ICHRAs and QSEHRAs cover workers with quality ACA [Affordable Care Act] health insurance they select based on their own health needs,” HRA Council Executive Director Robin Paoli said in a statement. “Employers empower employees to secure the coverage and care they need, with predictable budgets for health benefits. Choosing their own health coverage enables employees to stay with trusted providers and be secure in the ACA-compliant insurance that protects them from discriminatory practices such as pre-existing conditions and gender-based premiums.”

The report, titled “Growth Trends for ICHRA and QSEHRA: 2022 to 2023,” adds more detail and context to the rise in popularity of HRAs, which the council describes as “401ks for health coverage.” It also includes details on their effectiveness as a viable benefits solution and the role they play in shaping bipartisan health policy to help create a more accessible and affordable health care system. Additionally, the report breaks down HRA myths and facts.