The Open Enrollment Changes You Can Expect in 2020
August 6, 2019 | Curry Bradley, Chief Marketing Officer, Principal
With open enrollment (Nov. 1 through Dec. 15) fast approaching, it’s not too early to consider some of the changes that may affect your employees’ enrollment experiences. Benefits legislation is constantly in flux, but if you’re prepared, you’ll know what to expect from the 2020 open enrollment process.
On the Legal Front, What Should Benefits Leaders Keep an Eye On?
We’re keeping tabs on current health care legislation, and here’s the latest: The House recently voted to repeal the Cadillac tax, which imposes a 40% tax on health care plans that meet a certain threshold. The measure is now in the Senate; if a repeal measure doesn’t become law then the tax is scheduled to take effect in 2022.
A new rule regarding health reimbursement arrangements (HRAs) will allow employees to use funds for individual plans. Your employees will have their choice of individual marketplace health coverage and be able to receive reimbursement for all or part of their coverage. The new rule will take effect Jan. 1.
The IRS is cracking down on taxing imputed income. The fringe benefits you offer — such as paid parking spots — may be subject to income tax for your employees. We suggest assessing the fringe benefits you’re offering and keeping your employees apprised of applicable changes.
What New Tools Will Winston Offer This Enrollment Season?
Our goal is for your employees to have a painless enrollment process, so this season we’ve instituted better educational opportunities for employers and employees. These include decision-support tools to ensure that your employees make the best choices for themselves and their families.
We’re pairing that with more educational resources for health savings accounts (HSAs). We know your employees have questions regarding qualifying expenses, reimbursement and the like, so we’re providing answers. And we’re expanding our financial wellness programs so your employees have the resources they need to make healthy financial decisions.
Will Open Enrollment Processes Change This Year?
For Winston Benefits customers, the biggest change this year is an update of our resource libraries. All materials have been vetted, updated and prepared for use as your employees navigate open enrollment. And the database is easier to use than ever, rendering the information we offer much more accessible.
You may also notice small changes to our user interface. These updates prioritize the employee experience, and are intended to make the enrollment process easier for everyone.
Disclaimer: This content is strictly informational and should not be used as specific advice on insurance products, legal, accounting, and/or tax related matters. Insureds should always contact the appropriate licensed professional for their insurance, legal, accounting, or tax needs.
