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OSHA guidance on preparing workplaces for COVID-19
Sheryl Jaffee Halpern and Ed Walsh | May 11, 2020
Employers should develop an infectious disease preparedness and response plan for their worksites. Here's what to consider.
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COVID-19 accentuates the need for employee financial wellness
Kris Alban | May 11, 2020
Helping employees cope with the economic fallout of COVID-19 is a win-win. Here are some ideas for what you can do.
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As Supreme Court takes up ACA, Democrats point to COVID-19 impact
Charles Toutant | May 11, 2020
The ACA's protections "are more important than ever, as the coronavirus crisis shatters the lives and livelihoods of millions," says Nancy Pelosi.
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Self-funded employers don’t have to cut health coverage due to coronavirus
Michelle Zettergren | May 08, 2020
Your self-funded employer clients may have more options than they think to continue serving members' health care needs, even with the uncertainty and unparalleled strain the pandemic is placing on their business and the work their members do.
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UnitedHealth, other insurers offer discounts to customers hit by COVID-19
John Tozzi and Emma Court | May 07, 2020
Insurers have been experiencing a short-term increase in profits and are passing those savings back.
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10 worst cities for virus-related unemployment
Katie Rass | May 07, 2020
WalletHub ranked 180 cities based on the change in the jobless rate from a year ago.
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CFOs share top concerns about going back to "business as usual"
Steve Salkin | April 30, 2020
One solution they see to ease one of their biggest worries could be automation.
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How large companies are altering health coverage in response to COVID-19
Katie Kuehner-Hebert | May 01, 2020
Employers are waiving cost-sharing and increasing access to prescription drugs for their employees, among other strategies.
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Impact of COVID-19 on retirement savings might be felt for next 20 years
Amanda Bronstad | April 29, 2020
Losses due to unemployment, corporate cost-cutting and incentives to dip into retirement accounts may be hard to compensate for later.
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Feds pause many benefits action periods until COVID-19 outbreak ends
Allison Bell | May 01, 2020
The COBRA election period will end 120 days after the COVID-19 national emergency ends, EBSA says.
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How COVID-19 could be a financial wellness springboard
Raychel Lean | April 30, 2020
The talent and engagement of your workforce can help your business survive and recover -- and financial wellness programs should be part of that process.
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Student loans still worry borrowers in coronavirus crisis
Marlene Satter | April 22, 2020
It turns out that the CARES Act student loan relief doesn't apply to everyone who has a student loan.
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Is the COVID-19 death rate higher or lower than current estimates?
Emily Payne | April 30, 2020
Just as thousands of people have gone uncounted as “silent carriers” of the virus, countless more may have died as a result of the virus without it being detected.
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Creating an employee communication strategy for COVID-19--and beyond
Emily Payne | April 23, 2020
Employers are quickly adopting new strategies to communicate with employees in a virtual environment, and some of those changes may be permanent.
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Quiz: COVID-19 or Spanish Flu?
C.J. Marwitz | April 21, 2020
Take our quiz and see how much you know about two pandemics, 102 years apart.
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Are small businesses getting a fair shake through PPP?
Nick Thornton | April 22, 2020
Second tranche of loans may go even quicker than first.
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Physicians adjust approach to care amid COVID-19 outbreak
Lisa Helem | April 27, 2020
"The impact on physicians from COVID-19 is going to be transformative," says one industry expert.
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COVID-19 and self-funded plans: understanding the financial impact
Steve Purkapile, Terry Reams and Mark Guajardo | April 27, 2020
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to spread through the U.S., employers must be as mindful of the state of their self-funded health plan as they are the health of their employees. Here are key steps to ensure the plan’s financial viability during this crisis.
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COVID-19 pandemic sparking increase in antidepressant use
Katie Kuehner-Hebert | April 23, 2020
Over a one-month period, the number of prescriptions filled for antidepressant, anti-anxiety and anti-insomnia medications increased 21 percent.
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Employer compliance beyond CARES and FFRCA: Don't forget the basics
Nicholas Bonds | April 22, 2020
There are a number of issues simmering in the employee benefits pot beneath the FFCRA and CARES Act that employers should watch.
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COVID-19 is taking a toll on mental health among Americans
Scott Wooldridge | April 24, 2020
It's no surprise that Americans are stressed out about the pandemic, but who is suffering the most?
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Possible data breach affected some COVID-19 loan applicants: SBA
Janet Levaux | April 24, 2020
The private data of nearly 8,000 small-business applicants may have been exposed to others, the agency stated.
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CARES Act: A primer for agents and advisors
Lloyd Lofton | April 10, 2020
Here's a program that could help your clients. And, maybe, you.
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Retirement planning timetables chucked out the window
Marlene Satter | April 13, 2020
Most Americans' retirement plans are based on reaching certain milestones, which COVID-19 has erased.
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States grapple with compensation for families of front-line workers killed by COVID-19
David Voreacos and Michelle Kaske | April 22, 2020
At least 18 states have taken or are considering steps to ease requirements for workers compensation as the virus puts a wider range of front-line employees in danger.
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Companies remaining ‘flexible’ on furloughs and pay cuts in the midst of COVID-19
Frank Ready | April 22, 2020
A new poll shows that so far, only a limited number of respondents have instituted furloughs or reduced employee pay.
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10 actions to take on emergency funds in the pandemic
Marlene Satter | April 21, 2020
These financial tips might help you bring order to your thoughts and maybe convince you there is a future after Covid-19.
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3 FAQs about health care coverage and COVID-19
Kim Buckey | April 21, 2020
Your employees no doubt have a lot of questions about health care coverage right now, but here are the three big ones.
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How to help plan participants with their financial goals during COVID-19 market volatility
C.J. Marwitz | April 21, 2020
A Q&A with Dan Keady, CFP, RMA, Chief Financial Planning Strategist at TIAA.
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The SEC is watching advisors’ COVID-19 response
Paul Helms and Jodi Benassi | April 21, 2020
A pandemic isn't an excuse for advisors to relax compliance — in fact, the pressure is greater.
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Trump's big government health care plan for COVID-19
Jack Craver | April 20, 2020
“President Trump is probably now overseeing one of the biggest expansions in government health spending in one year ever,” says one expert.
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COVID-19 changing cyber fraud claim standards
A. Itami, D. Levine, G. Sepsakos, K. Walsh | April 17, 2020
Increased reliance on digital brought on by the coronavirus means greater focus on cybersecurity -- and who bears the risk.
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A lesson from COVID-19: Time to take control of your health care strategy
Joseph A. Hopkins | April 17, 2020
Not all employer groups are having the same struggle delivering proper health care to their employee populations.
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Taking pulse of Americans' COVID-19 sentiment
Marlene Satter | April 17, 2020
How you feel about the the pandemic and our country's response depends a lot on who you are and where you live.
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Business tax relief provided by the CARES Act
John Eagan and L. Stephen Bowers | April 16, 2020
Want more information about the employee retention credit or employer payroll tax deferral? Look no further.
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Gary Shilling: 13 predictions for a post-coronavirus world
Bernice Napach | April 13, 2020
The pandemic will cause long-term economic fallout and lasting behavior changes, the economist and advisor says.
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Employee benefits industry COVID-19 tools: Extensis Group, Collective Health, Oregon Recovers, AALU-GAMA, Healthjoy
C.J. Marwitz | April 13, 2020
Products for the employee benefits industry related to the coronavirus, from SWORD Health, SixFifty, PC Matic, OptimizeRX,MeMD, Conversion Labs, and more.
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HSA, retirement, and tax deadlines cheat sheet
Katie Kuehner-Hebert | April 03, 2020
Because of the coronavirus, individual and corporate taxpayers now have until July 15 to file and pay their 2019 taxes and first quarter 2020 estimated…
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COVID-19 and social determinants of health: Considerations for employers
Emily Payne | April 15, 2020
Social determinants of health play a major role in how well employees will weather this chaotic time.
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COVID-19: Checklist of ESOP-related challenges
Mark Welker | April 15, 2020
Here are some FAQs regarding ESOP-related issues we’ve been discussing with clients during the coronavirus pandemic.
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COVID-19 could cost anywhere from $56B to $556B, AHIP estimates
Scott Wooldridge | April 13, 2020
The final costs will depend on a number of factors, including how many Americans are infected and the availability of testing.
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No 'surprise' bills for COVID-19, White House says
Marlene Satter | April 13, 2020
Hospitals receiving funding as a result of the stimulus package will be banned from charging more than in-network rates.
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How employers, advisors, and the CARES Act combine to reassure retirement savers
C.J. Marwitz | April 10, 2020
A Q&A with Rhian Horgan, founder and CEO of Kindur.
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What’s missing in our country's coronavirus response?
Shefali Luthra, Kaiser Health News | April 09, 2020
Public health specialists say a range of tools, high-tech strategies and public health interventions could curb the spread of COVID-19.
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5 industry leaders on COVID-19's impact on retirement plans
Nick Thornton | April 09, 2020
The key to saving tens of thousands of retirement plans of small to mid-sized businesses lies in one program within the CARES Act.
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How 8 major 2020 TDFs are weathering COVID-19 sell-off
Nick Thornton | April 06, 2020
TDFs better off during the coronavirus selloff than the financial crisis, but still much pain among 2020 vintages across investment styles.
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Coronavirus tests telemedicine industry
Jack Craver | April 07, 2020
Telehealth platforms are frantically adding doctors to their networks and adding staff to deal with the deluge of new patients.
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Workers' leave, sick pay among top employer concerns in age of COVID-19
Sue Reisinger | April 07, 2020
Nearly 90 percent of companies say they're grappling with whether to pay employees during absences related to the coronavirus.
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5 ways scammers are using COVID-19 to target consumers
Emily Payne | April 07, 2020
In addition to the usual cyber threats consumers have to be on the watch for, the current situation presents opportunities for new scams.
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FDR-style programs could curb coronavirus, provide jobs
Marlene Satter | April 07, 2020
Massachusetts is putting people to work as "contact tracers" to help trace and limit the spread of coronavirus.
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Health care industry saw 43,000 layoffs in March
Marlene Satter | April 06, 2020
The number of doctors, nurses and other medical staff losing their jobs in the thick of the pandemic is just the tip of the iceberg.
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Predictive modeling helps cut through coronavirus confusion
Katie Kuehner-Hebert | April 06, 2020
Aon, Mercer and OneDigital have developed predictive modeling apps to help employers plan for changing medical costs.
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What does the COVID-19 pandemic mean for the ACA lawsuit?
Jacqueline Thomsen | April 06, 2020
Legal experts say the coronavirus is certain to be raised in briefs filed in GOP officials' lawsuit against the ACA.
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COVID-19 and the workforce: Employers must take a long-range view
Nicholas Wyman | April 06, 2020
Now is the perfect time for assessing how online platforms and telecommuting might be used to improve your operations.
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10 questions employers have about COVID-19
BenefitsPRO Editors | April 03, 2020
Here's a look at answers to the top 10 questions employers are asking during this chaotic time.
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Self-funded insurers forecast higher premiums if they don’t get coronavirus funding
Marlene Satter | April 15, 2020
The American Benefits Council is asking Congress to fund a reinsurance or risk corridor programs aimed at stabilizing premiums.
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Coronavirus guts pension funding levels
Nick Thornton | April 02, 2020
Key element was how plan sponsors allocated between treasuries and credit, says Willis Towers Watson's McEvoy.
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Here's what the EEOC says employers can ask and disclose about COVID-19
Mike Scarcella | April 03, 2020
The federal agency has posted a 45-minute webinar responding to a range of inquiries about privacy and disclosure.
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How to help your clients understand the CARES Act: Paycheck Protection Program
Nick Thornton | April 01, 2020
8 provisions of the Paycheck Protection Program that plan advisors can help plan sponsor clients understand.
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Total Covid-19 charges for hospitalized patients could hit $1.4 trillion: report
Marlene Satter | March 31, 2020
Estimate based on projections that 66–198 million Americans may become infected, and 4.9–19.8 million may have to be hospitalized.
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Will Treasury deliver coronavirus relief for safe harbor plans?
Nick Thornton | March 30, 2020
After financial crisis, 30-day notice requirement of suspended matches was waived -- but no mention in CARES Act.
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Business continuity & social distancing: 3 tips for transitioning to a work-from-home model
Dan Boccabella | March 31, 2020
HR managers need to think of ways to keep employees engaged, productive and protected in this chaotic time.
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Insurers causing bottlenecks in clearing hospital beds, say physicians
Marlene Satter | March 31, 2020
Insurers, for their part, say they’re adapting.
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COVID-19 will add to employers' already increasing health care costs
Katie Kuehner-Hebert | March 31, 2020
In the worst-case scenario, employers would be looking at an additional 5 to 7 percent increase.
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Pharmacies instituting anti-hoarding measures for possible coronavirus treatments
Marlene Satter | March 31, 2020
Pharmacies are working to block panicked Americans from squirreling away meds touted as potential treatments for coronavirus.
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Advisors' advice: In this market, what's a retiree to do?
Bernice Napach | March 31, 2020
6 advisors and how they're helping pre-retirees and retirees meet their income needs.
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What is stress? And how can we cope? – with Lynn Jonen, PhD
David Saltzman | March 31, 2020
This episode of The ShiftShapers Podcast is called “What is stress and how can we cope? – with Lynn Jonen, Ph.D.” Host and Chief Transformation…
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In an effort to avoid layoffs, Marshall Dennehey halts retirement matching
Dylan Jackson | March 31, 2020
While suspending 401(k) matching will not fully cover the revenue the firm anticipates it will lose, layoffs are not expected.
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IRS says tax credits available now to employers offering paid COVID-19 leave
Katie Kuehner-Hebert | March 30, 2020
An immediate dollar-for-dollar tax offset against payroll taxes will be provided to eligible employers.
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Cigna, Humana waive cost-sharing for COVID-19 treatment
John Tozzi | March 30, 2020
Leaders of both companies called it the right thing to do to help alleviate financial stress for their members.
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How to talk to your employees about their 401(k)s during COVID-19
C.J. Marwitz | March 30, 2020
A Q&A with Edward Gottfried, Director of Product at Betterment for Business
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How the CARES Act helps create telehealth clarity
Reid Rasmussen | March 30, 2020
Is a $0 visit fee telehealth service considered significant care? Regulators have not answered this question, although millions of Americans have access to telehealth and HDHP plans.
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Employers changing policies, benefits as COVID-19 hits
Marlene Satter | March 30, 2020
Not all employers have the option to have employees work remotely, but they're still doing what they can to accommodate workers.
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Hospitals will see infusion of cash from coronavirus relief bill
Julie Rovner, Kaiser Health News | March 30, 2020
About $100 billion is intended to reimburse "eligible health care providers for health care-related expenses or lost revenue."
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House passes $2 trillion coronavirus package
Erik Wasson and Billy House | March 27, 2020
Bill passed despite efforts by Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky) will provide employer and worker relief in multitude of areas.
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The Families First Coronavirus Response Act: What employers should know
Lorena E. Ahumada and John Schapiro | March 27, 2020
The following outlines the The Families First Coronavirus Response Act's provisions specific to employers:
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Here are the retirement provisions in the Senate’s final coronavirus bill
Nick Thornton | March 26, 2020
The House is scheduled to bring the CARES Act to a vote on Friday, March 27.
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Mass job losses threaten to leave millions in U.S. uninsured
Angelica LaVito | March 26, 2020
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services considering reopening the Affordable Care Act exchanges.
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Mental health hotlines and websites: Because COVID-19 just makes things worse
C.J. Marwitz | March 26, 2020
Here are resources, because it's certainly not making anxiety, substance abuse, parenting issues and other mental and emotional burdens any easier.
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After COVID-19 layoffs, brace for retaliation claims
Milton L. Williams and Derek Borchardt | April 15, 2020
Some employees will suspect that they were terminated not merely for economic reasons, but also for retaliatory ones.
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Senate passes $2.2T stimulus package
Melanie Waddell | March 26, 2020
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security, or CARES Act, now heads to the House.
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Coronavirus may prove to be a 'time-limited' problem for plan sponsors
Nick Thornton | March 25, 2020
Harder to reinstate retirement benefits once they've been stripped.
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401(k) plan sponsors must have a “home-based employee” strategy – Carosa
Christopher Carosa | March 25, 2020
You can see the future of the workplace from your house, because the future workplace is your house. Are 401(k) plan sponsors ready for it?
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ACA exchange warns of 40% or more premium increase in 2021 due to COVID-19
Katie Kuehner-Hebert | March 25, 2020
Covered California's actuarial/policy brief recommends that Congress consider three actions now to mitigate impact.
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The COVID-19 pandemic: key employee benefits and compensation issues to consider
Craig Kovarik, Alan Kandel, Molly Callender Hobbs and Gage Maurer | March 25, 2020
The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic raises many employee benefit and compensation considerations for employers. We examine key issues relating to COVID-19 and provide suggested strategies for employers to prepare for these issues.
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How investors, advisors, and sponsors are navigating COVID-19
C.J. Marwitz | March 25, 2020
A Q&A with Jim Scheinberg, North Pier Search Consulting founder and CIO
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ACLI chief to state regulators: Insurance companies are well-positioned to weather coronavirus
Nick Thornton | March 24, 2020
American Council of Life Insurers CEO Neely vows to maintain commitments to retirees.
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Remote review of I-9 documents now permitted due to COVID-19: ICE
Katie Kuehner-Hebert | March 23, 2020
Employers can also choose to designate an authorized representative to act on their behalf to complete Section 2.
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7 retirement provisions in the House stimulus package that go beyond Senate’s CARES Act
Nick Thornton | March 24, 2020
Multiemployer plans facing insolvency would be bailed out, furloughed time would count toward retirement plans, and more.
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Pizza delivery vs. dining out: The jobs COVID-19 is helping and hurting
C.J. Marwitz | March 23, 2020
One solution to avoid more layoffs is "work-sharing" or "short--time compensation" programs -- except in the food biz.
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Coronavirus relief package would suspend 2020 RMDs
Nick Thornton | March 23, 2020
Bill stalled in Senate.
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Remote work: 7 ways to help employees adjust to the new normal's new workplace
Donna Kimmel | March 24, 2020
Remote work isn't 'business as usual '-- it's perhaps the biggest change in the way businesses operate. Here's how HR can help.
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As coronavirus rages, Biden hits Trump over ACA challenge
Marlene Satter | March 23, 2020
Trump has defended his actions as recently as Sunday and told reporters, “What we want to do is get rid of the bad health care and put in great health care.”
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Coronavirus coverage stumps most health insurance enrollees
Marlene Satter | March 24, 2020
Among consumers, 64 percent overall say they couldn’t cover their deductible if they end up hospitalized for COVID-19.
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Amid coronavirus pandemic, don’t forget about mental health benefits
Emily Payne | March 24, 2020
During this chaotic time, employers need to be cognizant of the mental and emotional stress employees are facing.
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Could coronavirus outbreak disrupt employee access to critical drugs?
Katie Kuehner-Hebert | March 24, 2020
Key drug manufacturing facilities in China were sidelined by the COVID-19 outbreak. How will it affect Americans?
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Life insurance does cover pandemics
Allison Bell | March 23, 2020
Regulators at the National Association of Insurance Commissioners have developed a guide to COVID-19 insurance.
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4 relief measures retirement & sponsor groups are asking Congress for beyond the CARES Act
Nick Thornton | March 20, 2020
The list of measures goes beyond the loan relief that is part of the GOP's Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act.
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UCLA forecasts sharp recession due to coronavirus
Kelsi Maree Borland | March 23, 2020
Recession to be more severe but shorter than the Great Recession -- UCLA estimates 6.5% GDP loss in the second quarter alone.
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Retail, grocery hiring heats up as stores rush to meet COVID-19 demand
Katie Kuehner-Hebert | March 23, 2020
Amazon, Walmart and Target are among the major names ramping up hiring--and offering bonuses to current workers.
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The “new normal” in voluntary benefits
Tripp Amos | March 23, 2020
In the past few weeks, key industries for voluntary benefits such as restaurants, hotels, public schools, and other service sectors have shuttered for an indeterminate period of time. And unfortunately, voluntary benefits are disproportionately skewed towards these hourly workers and sectors.
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Gig economy takes a hit from coronavirus
Michelle Andrews | March 20, 2020
The Families First Coronavirus Response Act will provide financial relief for a broad swath of people, including the self-employed.
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Senate GOP coronavirus bill includes distribution provisions for retirement plan participants
Nick Thornton | March 20, 2020
Retirement industry advocates, including the American Retirement Association, and individual service providers, lobbied for the changes.
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Prepare for what's next (but don't overreact)
Paul Wilson | March 20, 2020
Maybe we should settle down, remain vigilant and listen to scientists and other experts when a threat arises.
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Coronavirus testing and care: self-funded health plan considerations
Deborah Ault, RN | March 19, 2020
Here are answers to some of the questions benefits advisors, employer and employees may have now about the coronavirus and it's potential ramifications.
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Ways to stress test your business for coronavirus impact
Lloyd Lofton | March 20, 2020
Clients and prospects want ideas right now. Are you ready to talk to them?
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How long does COVID-19 live?
Emily Payne | March 19, 2020
Coronavirus can live on some surfaces longer than others. Which should you be most concerned about?
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Advisors, now is the time to take your advice: Do some business and estate planning
Marlene Satter | March 19, 2020
Now's the time to be your own best client and get that succession and estate planning out of the way.
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3 reminders for employees and clients about coronavirus scams
Marlene Satter C.J. Marwitz | March 19, 2020
Cornavirus scams and cybersecurity tips for employers.
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Why ERISA fiduciaries must monitor market turbulence
Greg Ash | March 19, 2020
ERISA never sleeps: Here are 4 strategies plan fiduciaries might consider during the coronavirus-caused market turmoil.
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COVID-19 health benefits resources for your state
Allison Bell | March 19, 2020
Each state is taking its own approach to Covid-19 health insurance regulation. Here's a directory.
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Fresh off court victory, CalSavers setting to launch into eye of hurricane coronavirus
Nick Thornton | March 18, 2020
Success is measured by helping workers get access to retirement plans -- whether CalSavers, or in the private sector.
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401(k) service providers adding call center staff to help ease participant fears
Nick Thornton | March 18, 2020
Coronavirus-fueled market panic prompting up to 8 times the usual call volume for some recordkeepers.
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How to get Social Security help when Covid-19 closes offices
Marlene Satter | March 18, 2020
The pandemic has shuttered the SSA’s 1,200-office field network, along with offices that hear disability insurance appeals.
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COVID-19 closures spark surge in unemployment claims
Katie Kuehner-Hebert | March 18, 2020
Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin warned that the U.S. unemployment rate could rise to 20 percent if something isn't done.
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Can coronavirus facts reassure clients?
Bryce Sanders | March 18, 2020
A financial and insurance professional who frequently travels to China shares his take on the coronavirus.
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Amid coronavirus outbreak, telemedicine provides vital link to care and prevention
Dr. Jonathan Wiesen | March 18, 2020
Now is a good time to discuss how telemedicine can improve access to care, curb costs and potentially curtail the spread of a virus.
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How leaders can help employees and clients reduce anxiety in times of great stress
C.J. Marwitz | March 18, 2020
Coronavirus stress is affecting just about everyone -- CEO Mark Mitchnick, M.D., offers tips for communicating with anxious clients and employees.
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Employers' many legal questions about coronavirus, answered
Sue Reisinger | March 18, 2020
“Companies are facing really hard questions about what they can and cannot ask employees,” says one legal expert.
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How Google is helping in the fight against COVID-19
Marlene Satter | March 18, 2020
Google, arguably the gatekeeper for the flow of information, is stepping up its efforts to ensure the right information is being shared.
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10 states responding most aggressively to coronavirus threat
Emily Payne | March 17, 2020
States are taking the threat of a coronavirus outbreak seriously, and some are acting swiftly and decisively to stop the virus in its tracks.
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5 ways to cope with Covid-19’s effects on pensions and retirement
Marlene Satter | March 17, 2020
Here are some possible coping strategies to suggest to retirement savers and the employers trying to calm their anxieties.
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Expanded paid sick leave requirements under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act
Philip Qualo | March 17, 2020
If passed, the bill would extend far beyond the reach of existing federal leave laws and create additional leave requirements for employers who already offer paid sick leave.
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SEC extends filing dates for Form ADV, Form PF due to coronavirus pandemic
Nick Thornton | March 17, 2020
No comment on extension of Form CRS, Reg BI deadline.
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Cyber threats increase as coronavirus drives more employees to work from home
Mark Sangster | March 17, 2020
Here are some of the key issues and steps that should be considered to minimize the risk to keep everyone—and company data—safe.
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Insurers loosen regulations to help curb coronavirus outbreak
Emily Payne | March 17, 2020
Insurers are offering no-fee telemedicine consults, free prescription drug delivery and other cost-sharing accommodations.
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Some 'excepted benefits' policies might cover COVID-19 testing
Allison Bell | March 17, 2020
Excepted benefits issuers, such as short-term health insurers, don't have to cover coronavirus testing. But some will anyway.
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Benefits industry product roundup: Coronavirus-related tools, services, assistance
C.J. Marwitz | March 16, 2020
News from Augmentir, Benefitfocus, Bluestream Health, Capitol BlueCross, Cigna, eVisit, Evolve IP, GeoBlue, Gulf Guaranty, Health Recovery Solutions, Higher Logic, HRAcuity, LiveSafe, OpenWater, Orbit Health Telepsychiatry, and more.
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Cyberattack hits HHS amid COVID-19 outbreak
Shira Stein and Jennifer Jacobs | March 16, 2020
The attack involved overloading the HHS servers with millions of hits.
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Coronavirus costs could top $20,000, even for those with health insurance
Marlene Satter | March 16, 2020
A new report utilizes data related to typical costs for pneumonia cases to estimate the financial impact of coronavirus on patients.
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Coronavirus casts heavy shadow over Biden, Sanders debate
Emmarie Huetteman, Kaiser Health News | March 16, 2020
During Sunday's debate, the two candidates offered two starkly different images of leadership in a time of crisis.
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Employers mobilizing to implement coronavirus emergency response plans
Katie Kuehner-Hebert | March 16, 2020
They're putting together communication strategies and plans to deal with staffing disruptions, among other issues.
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Trump declares national emergency over coronavirus
Melanie Waddell | March 13, 2020
The declaration will “open up access to up to $50 billion” for states, territories and localities “in our shared fight against this disease.”
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Treasury weighs extending tax filing deadline due to coronavirus
Bernice Napach | March 12, 2020
Treasury Secretary Mnuchin told a congressional committee an extension would increase liquidity into the U.S. economy.
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Trump misleads with claim that insurers will cover coronavirus treatment
Shefali Luthra, Kaiser Health News and Amy Sherman, PolitiFact | March 13, 2020
President Trump this week said that insurers would cover the costs of testing and treatment. That's not quite true.
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Health care costs and coronavirus stoke employee anxiety: How employers can help
Kris Alban | March 11, 2020
When evaluating a financial wellness tool, look for one that addresses health care costs and potential savings options, such as HSAs.
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Coronavirus: A checklist for employers
Emily Payne | March 10, 2020
Here are a few actions companies and their HR departments should take to ensure they’re prepared for a potential outbreak.
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Employee financial wellness vs. the coronavirus: Which will win?
C.J. Marwitz | March 10, 2020
The long-term effect of COVID-19? Employees more financially strapped and stressed than ever.
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Insurers offer free coronavirus coverage, but you might pay for it next year
Emily Payne | March 10, 2020
If insurers see a significant uptick in spending on medical care due to the outbreak, they'll need to recoup the expenses somehow.
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Coronavirus puts paid sick leave policies in the spotlight
Marlene Satter | March 09, 2020
Workers who can't afford to stay home and miss a paycheck while sick put others at risk of contracting coronavirus.
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Advisor VIPs say: Keep it cool amid coronavirus market madness
Janet Levaux | March 09, 2020
Josh Brown, Liz Ann Sonders, Ron Carson and Daniel Crosby speak out about how advisors can help clients and themselves.
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Feds look to telehealth to rein in Covid-19 coronavirus
Allison Bell | March 06, 2020
If brick-and-mortar facilities are overloaded, "keeping people out of the health care system physically could be in everybody's interest."
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Managed accounts can save virus-panicked retirement savers from themselves
Nick Thornton | March 03, 2020
Coronavirus is causing some 401(k) savers to make ill-advised choices -- but managed accounts offer a built-in safety net courtesy of call center pros.
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Employees fear the financial consequences of coronavirus
Katie Kuehner-Hebert | March 05, 2020
Many American workers are concerned that an outbreak would limit their ability to work--and bring in income.
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How 7 industry leaders are reacting to coronavirus stimulus package
BenefitsPRO Editors | March 30, 2020
It's a good start, some say. Others are relieved, or at least glad something has been done.
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Health insurers to waive cost-sharing requirements in fight against Covid-19 coronavirus
Allison Bell | March 06, 2020
AHIP members say they'll ease any barriers to testing and treatment to testing for the virus.
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Who pays for coronavirus health care costs?
Emily Payne | March 03, 2020
When citizens are quarantined during a public health emergency, there's no clear rule on who pays the medical bills.
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What to know about coronavirus and employment law
Steven L. Schwarzberg | February 28, 2020
To prepare for a potential coronavirus outbreak, employers need to focus on prevention, anticipate concerns, implement pro-active procedures, and avoid legal pitfalls.
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Split trading desks, hourly Clorox: How Wall Street is prepping for coronavirus
Jenny Surane | February 28, 2020
Company travel bans, re-examination of sick leave policies and -- placing desks farther apart?
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Coronavirus fears prompt 401(k) trading spike despite improved outreach to savers
Nick Thornton | February 28, 2020
Are some savers not getting the memo to stay put?
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How worried are Americans about coronavirus?
Allison Bell | February 28, 2020
Many consumers are thinking about Covid-19. Some are acting on their thoughts.
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The U.S. needs to get out in front of the coronavirus threat: Max Nisen
Max Nisen | February 24, 2020
Stay calm and don't shake hands. (Fist bumps are probably okay.) And maybe fund the CDC better, improve public health awareness, and stop panicking in the stock market.
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Impact of coronavirus on U.S. growth too early to know, says Fed Chair Powell
Nick Thornton | February 12, 2020
Other economists forecasting limited impact, assuming the virus is contained.
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Coronavirus for employers: Keep calm and wash your hands
Emily Payne | February 06, 2020
But also, take this opportunity to update your sick leave and remote work policies.
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As coronavirus fears spook equity markets, trading in 401(k)s spikes
Nick Thornton | January 28, 2020
The reaction to the coronavirus suggests savers in 401(k)s are more prone to erratic trading in down markets, Alight Solutions says.
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3 things to know about the new coronavirus, for agents
Allison Bell | January 28, 2020
Here's what we've discovered so far about the virus the CDC is calling 2019 Novel Coronavirus, or 2019-nCoV.
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What advisors can do in risky markets
Janet Levaux | March 13, 2020
Riskalyze co-founder Mike McDaniel on how advisors can grow in times of volatility.
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Coronavirus sparks renewed calls for Medicaid expansion
Jack Craver | March 12, 2020
The prospect of a global pandemic has Democrats across the country calling for expanded public health care services.
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IRS issues guidance on HDHPs and coronavirus
Marlene Satter | March 11, 2020
All testing and treatment related to the virus can be covered pre-deductible without violating the rules of HDHPs, the IRS says.
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Coronavirus: Don’t forget about cyber hygiene
Alisa Chestler and Alexandria Murphy | March 11, 2020
As more companies turn to remote work arrangements, there are cybersecurity risks they should be aware of and work to mitigate.
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Blood plasma treatment for COVID-19 highlights health care disparities
JoNel Aleccia, Kaiser Health News | April 15, 2020
One’s chances of procuring blood plasma treatment depend on accidents of geography, social-media savvy and the willingness of treating physicians.
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Managers need a crash-course in work-from-home skills
Katie Kuehner-Hebert | March 19, 2020
Companies and employee teams are scrambling to adapt to the work-from-home environment. What skills do they need?
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Retiring during pandemic? Maybe not
Marlene Satter | March 31, 2020
Federal government employees who were planning on retiring might want to hold onto their paperwork.
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10 states where unemployment is rising the most
Emily Payne | April 03, 2020
Despite being hotbeds for coronavirus, neither New York nor California are among the states with the greatest spikes in unemployment.
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Unemployment hits all-time record; claims go up 3,000% in one week
Marlene Satter | April 03, 2020
Meanwhile, 49 percent of employers are considering layoffs while more than a third are freezing new hires.
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8 ways sales professionals can use their time wisely while remote working
Bryce Sanders | April 03, 2020
Consider the time you are spending working from home as a gift. And take a look at these suggestions for how to use it.
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Bill nonpayment options under Covid-19
Marlene Satter | April 02, 2020
You can take some actions to help yourself.
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Some Americans could hit snags getting stimulus cash, planner says
Janet Levaux | April 02, 2020
Jeff Levine of Kitces.com and Buckingham Wealth breaks down the details of how direct payments and RMD waivers work in the stimulus bill.
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COVID-19: From panic to purpose
Hal Rosenbluth | April 23, 2020
If the coronavirus has taken over your mental wellness, here are 5 ways to reduce anxiety and take your life back.
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A spike in uninsured Americans is coming
Jack Craver | April 06, 2020
Although those who lose their jobs qualify to enroll in health care plans through the ACA markets, many likely will not.
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COVID-19 will make gender pay inequities worse
Marlene Satter | April 07, 2020
'Research shows women are unfairly impacted financially in times of crises like the current coronavirus epidemic,' says one researcher.
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Will COVID-19 lead to greater employer empathy?
Marlene Satter | April 06, 2020
Mercer study shows employers need to 'win with empathy' both now and in the future.
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How to help employees who are caregivers during the COVID-19 crisis
Carolyn A. Romano, JD and Liz O’Donnell | April 09, 2020
Employers can make the difference between an employee having to stop working or being able to manage work and life.
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New Year’s resolutions thwarted by COVID-19: Now what? 10 tasks for pension plan sponsors
Michael Clark and Tom Cassara | April 09, 2020
Here's what you can do to ensure that your company's pension plan can adapt appropriately to changing conditions.
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3 ways to help your employees get through the coronavirus pandemic
Brian Hamilton | April 09, 2020
Employees are looking to their employers for the resources, tools and motivation to get their finances right in a time like this.
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6 categories of employment lawsuits to expect in the wake of COVID-19
Emily Payne | April 09, 2020
Transitioning to a work-from-home model. Furloughing and laying off workers. Complying with new regulations from the CARES and Families First Coronavirus…
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Short-term health insurers expanding COVID-19 testing coverage
Allison Bell | April 09, 2020
The CEO of Pivot Health says most short-term health insurers are waiving COVID-19 testing out-of-pocket costs.
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COVID-19 and the uninsured: Up to 2 million hospitalizations and $42 billion in costs
Scott Wooldridge | April 09, 2020
With so many variables at play, those numbers could be lower--or higher.
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COVID-19 hitting communities of color harder
Marlene Satter | April 09, 2020
People in communities of color are more more likely to lack health insurance and to be without a usual source of care.
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Will COVID-19 terminate more than 200,000 401(k) plans?
Nick Thornton | April 08, 2020
Upwards of one-third of plans are candidates for termination, unless sponsors at least get "some breathing room on notices, contributions, and testing," ARA says.
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Democrats call for ‘interim emergency’ coronavirus bill
Melanie Waddell | April 08, 2020
Schumer and Pelosi want to expand PPP loans and other aid as lawmakers discuss a broader follow-up to the CARES Act.
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10 states predicted to see the highest increase in number of uninsured
Katie Kuehner-Hebert | April 08, 2020
As millions of Americans lose employer-sponsored insurance, some will enroll in an ACA or Medicaid plan, and some will simply go without.
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Remote working: Preparing for the long-term workplace shift
Kenneth Jones | April 08, 2020
Now that we’ve all learned to use our hampers as desks and to mute our phones during a Zoom meeting, it’s time to shift our focus.
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Sick leave, short-term disability payments could total $23 billion amid COVID-19 pandemic
Katie Kuehner-Hebert | April 08, 2020
Integrated Benefits Institute outlines how three possible scenarios will play out when it comes to employer spending.
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What health care costs will look like post-COVID-19
Shobin Uralil | April 14, 2020
If there is one clear take away from the current situation, it's the need to plan ahead for the unexpected.
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Will COVID-19 increase premiums? Some insurers say no.
Allison Bell | April 14, 2020
At this point, most health insurers are predicting that COVID-19 will have little effect on 2021.
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CMS issues guidance on COVID-19 diagnostic services coverage
Marlene Satter | April 14, 2020
In addition to testing, the guidance clarifies what related services, including antibody testing, insurers must cover without cost-sharing.
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Half of Americans say they can't afford COVID-19 costs
Katie Kuehner-Hebert | April 14, 2020
According to a recent survey, 46 percent would think twice about seeking medical care right now because of cost.
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SEC officials urge companies to talk about the future
Sue Reisinger | April 14, 2020
The SEC urged companies to disclose where the company stands today and how its operations and financial condition may change.
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Hospital stimulus funding amounts based on Medicare, not COVID-19
Jay Hancock, Phil Galewitz and Elizabeth Lucas, Kaiser Health News | April 14, 2020
Hospitals are blasting the government’s decision to take a one-size-fits-all approach to distributing $30 billion in emergency grants.
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COVID-19 return to work testing: guidance for brokers and employers
Chris Yarn | April 14, 2020
The following testing options, pricing, and logistics solutions provide guidance for employer groups wanting to test employees for Coronavirus (COVID-19) when returning to work.
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IRS, Treasury launch tool to help non-filers get stimulus checks faster
Jeff Berman | April 13, 2020
The new online tool was designed to help millions who don’t usually file a tax return.
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Judge rules CARES Act doesn't stop BofA from limiting its PPP loans to certain businesses
Amanda Bronstad | April 14, 2020
Judge Gallagher did acknowledge that BofA's criteria "undoubtedly made it materially harder for some small businesses to access the PPP."
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Leading through the COVID-19 pandemic: A Q&A with CVS Health's top lawyer Thomas Moriarty
MP McQueen | April 13, 2020
CVS's top lawyer, Thomas Moriarty, talks about leading his team through the maze of complex legal and regulatory issues CVS faces from COVID-19.
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A measure of calm during the COVID-19 crisis: How to communicate with employees
Ruth Hunt | April 13, 2020
Regardless of your industry, your people are looking to you, their employer, for trusted information and support right now.
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Staying on track during COVID-19: Supporting participants with saving and investing
George White | April 10, 2020
Employers may ‘step up’ vesting of employer contributions in the case of an involuntary dismissal -- but they can also protect retirement plan loans.
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4 considerations when dealing with ESOP valuation issues during COVID-19
Mark Welker | April 15, 2020
Back at the turn of the new year, few people imagined the havoc that the COVID-19 outbreak would cause during the first quarter of 2020. The broad…
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One-fifth of large retirement plan sponsors say they are suspending 401(k) matches
Nick Thornton | April 14, 2020
Large sponsors quicker to implement retirement provision of CARES Act.
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Financial advisors see little disruption to client support from coronavirus
Marlene Satter | April 14, 2020
While they don’t expect to emerge completely unscathed, many advisors see a silver lining.
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Businesses need to start planning for post-COVID-19 impact
Katie Kuehner-Hebert | April 16, 2020
In the short-term, business leaders need to focus on crisis management and managing the immediate impact. And after that?
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COVID-19: Employment law update and guidance for employers
Kate Roberts, Marketa Lindt and Kate Heinzelman | April 16, 2020
In this guidance, legal experts at Sidley address frequently asked questions from employers across industries in light of the continuing COVID-19 crisis.…
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How will states handle data privacy legislation after COVID-19?
Dan Clark | April 16, 2020
In the realm of cybersecurity and data privacy, lawmakers may have their eyes on issues that have emerged from the pandemic.
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COVID-19 forces CalSavers to delay employer registration deadline
Nick Thornton | April 15, 2020
June 30 deadline for employers with 100 or more workers pushed back; support services to be added to help employers.
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Trump issues 3-phase plan to re-open economy
Melanie Waddell | April 17, 2020
The plan will allow governors to take “a phased and deliberate approach to re-opening their states,” Trump said.
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IRS website glitches hold up coronavirus relief deposits; some apparently sent to wrong accounts
Marlene Satter | April 16, 2020
Treasury Department denies that adding Trump’s name to the memo line on checks is causing any delays of paper checks.
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COVID-19 pandemic considerations for nonqualified deferred compensation plan sponsors
Kevin A. Brown, John B. Brescher, Jr., Mark Daniele, Joel Horowitz, Jane Kimball and Meredith Walsh | April 20, 2020
This article discusses certain considerations for employers that sponsor nonqualified deferred compensation plans, in light of business/market conditions and employee needs resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, with a particular emphasis on the strict requirements of IRC § 409A.
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Strategies for building employee financial security during the COVID-19 pandemic
Melissa Gopnik | April 22, 2020
Right now is the time to double down on what we know are the best practices in benefit design and employee engagement.
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Pandemic sinks Americans' personal financial satisfaction
Marlene Satter | April 24, 2020
AICPA's quarterly economic gauge finds a big drop in how we view our financial situations in the U.S. -- but how bad is it?
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A perspective on working from home: The good and the bad (But mostly good)
Robert Schiller | April 27, 2020
The COVID-19 situation is a trial by fire for companies and employees new to working from home.
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Majority of CEOs say COVID-19 poses a large or even severe risk to their business
Marlene Satter | April 29, 2020
While many executives expect a "u-shaped" recovery, over 20 percent expect a "w-shaped" recovery, that is, with several ups and downs.
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Plan sponsors' CARES Act decisions delayed by COVID-19 crisis management
Frank Ready | April 28, 2020
And several other potential reasons why large-plan sponsors have already made decisions smaller-plan sponsors are still considering.
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Study: Nearly half of adults say their family has lost work or income amid the pandemic
Dylan Jackson | May 07, 2020
This widespread loss of income has stark impacts, as consumers worry about being able to pay their debts and afford medical costs.
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COVID-19 threatening Americans' shaky financial security
David Thomas | May 11, 2020
Long-term financial goals are discarded as focus shifts to meeting day-to-day expenses.
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Alicia Munnell: How to prevent mass layoffs due to coronavirus
Katie Rass | May 08, 2020
There's an idea under discussion that has supporters in both parties, the Center for Retirement Research director.