Section 125 Tag-Along Rule: Redefining the Landscape of Employee Coverage
The Section 125 tag-along rule simplifies mid-year enrollments in cafeteria plans. This rule permits employees to add existing dependents to their coverage following a qualifying life-changing event. Moreover, it can prompt an employee’s own mid-year sign-up to guarantee dependent coverage.
What Does It Mean for Employees?
The tag-along rule offers flexibility for employees to adjust their coverage due to qualified life changes, providing opportunities to include existing dependents or themselves as needed.
Here are some examples of how it can work:
- When a new baby arrives, siblings can also be added to the coverage.
- If a dependent loses their coverage, an employee can enroll to ensure they’re covered.
- Changing an employee’s coverage when their dependent moves to a new location.
What Does It Mean for Employers?
For employers, the tag-along rule enhances their capacity to support employees through life changes. However, this rule’s implementation may require insurance carrier or stop-loss provider approval and should be compatible with the company’s cafeteria plan terms.
Consider this rule as a vital tool for promoting a supportive work environment, bearing in mind the need for consistent application and clear communication.
Your HR Spring Cleaning Guide: Removing Outdated I-9s
Understanding and managing outdated I-9 forms is a critical task for employers. Retaining these documents beyond their required timeframes can inadvertently expose your organization to potential liabilities.
Retention Rule for I-9 Forms
Retain I-9 forms one-year post-termination or three years post-hire, whichever is later. Remember, the countdown begins only after employment ends.
Potential Risks of Retaining Outdated I-9s
Keeping old I-9s can cause issues during government inspections. Without a clear separation of old and current forms, you may face potential fines.
Benefits of Timely Purging
Purging outdated I-9s minimizes risks, eliminates potential problematic patterns, and safeguards personal data. Always use a secure document destruction protocol.
Risk of Premature Purging
Purging too soon can also be problematic. If audited and required forms are missing, you could incur penalties for late verification.
Managing I-9 forms is tricky, but a planned purge process can reduce future liabilities. Consider it office spring cleaning for your I-9 compliance strategy.
Recognizing the Early Signs: A Focus on Alzheimer’s Awareness in June
As June marks Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, it’s crucial to recognize the early signs and symptoms of this progressive brain disease that leads to a gradual decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning skills. Alzheimer’s often begins subtly, with symptoms like frequent memory loss that disrupts daily life, such as forgetting newly learned information or crucial dates. Some might face challenges in planning or solving problems, like following a familiar recipe or managing monthly bills. Difficulty completing routine tasks, confusion about time or place, and trouble understanding visual images or spatial relationships can also signal Alzheimer’s onset.
Contrary to typical age-related changes, Alzheimer’s patients may have issues with words while speaking or writing, and they might often misplace things without being able to retrace their steps. This disease can also bring about changes in judgment or decision-making, leading to poor choices and reduced personal care. Withdrawal from work or social activities and shifts in mood and personality are common symptoms as well. Recognizing these signs early on is key for timely intervention. If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with a doctor for a thorough evaluation.
GHT Insurance Supports Comfort Zone Camp with Battle of the Bags
GHT Insurance recently took part in the Battle of the Bags, a Charity Cornhole Tournament, to support Comfort Zone Camp – a non-profit group dedicated to helping children and young adults aged 7-25 who have experienced the loss of a loved one. In a world where over 50,000 children have lost a parent to COVID-19, the organization’s free programs are essential in combating isolation and supporting young people’s overall well-being.
Hosted for the second year at the Sports Center of Richmond (SCOR), the tournament drew 56 teams and raised an all-time high of $47,415 for Comfort Zone Camps. Plus, thanks to 68 generous Child Sponsors, more kids can attend the camp at no cost. Encouraged by the event’s success, Comfort Zone Camp has expanded the fundraiser to Boston and Raleigh. We extend our deepest thanks to our sponsors, donors, participants, and the SCOR staff. Learn more about Comfort Zone Camps by clicking the link below.
