Can I use an HRA if I am self-employed?
Direct answer No, because standard HRAs require an employer-employee relationship, meaning you cannot sponsor an HRA for yourself as a sole proprietor or partner without common-law employees. You may instead be eligible for a Qualified Small Employer HRA (QSEHRA) if you meet specific business size and coverage requirements. Internal Revenue Service guidance on small business […]
Am I protected by the No Surprises Act if I choose to go to an out-of-network provider voluntarily?
Direct answer No, if you voluntarily seek care from an out-of-network provider and sign a formal consent form, the No Surprises Act protections against balance billing do not apply. Regulatory standards published by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services concerning balance billing disclosures and patient consent waivers. For additional information about patient protections […]
What are the warning signs of life insurance premium fraud?
Direct answer Warning signs include requests for payments via wire transfer or gift cards, or being pressured to sign documents before receiving an official summary of benefits from the insurer. National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) anti-fraud resources. For additional information on identifying and reporting insurance scams, see the National Association of Insurance Commissioners‘ anti-fraud […]
What are the warning signs of life insurance premium fraud?
Direct answer Warning signs include requests for payments via wire transfer or gift cards, or being pressured to sign documents before receiving an official summary of benefits from the insurer. National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) anti-fraud resources. For additional information on identifying and reporting suspicious activities, see the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). […]
What is an HRA and how does it work for employees?
Direct answer An HRA is an employer-funded account that reimburses employees for qualified medical expenses, but it depends on your specific employer’s plan design regarding whether funds roll over year to year. The money is tax-free for the employee, but you must submit documentation to be reimbursed for out-of-pocket costs. IRS Publication 969 regarding Health […]
Does the No Surprises Act prevent me from getting a surprise bill for emergency care?
Direct answer Yes, it prohibits surprise billing for emergency services, even if those services are provided by out-of-network providers at an in-network facility. Federal guidance from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services regarding the No Surprises Act implementation. For additional information about patient protections under this law, see the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid […]
How can I tell if an insurance agent is legitimate?
Direct answer You can verify legitimacy by checking the agent’s license number through your state’s Department of Insurance website and ensuring they represent a carrier licensed to do business in your state. State insurance commissioner licensing databases and consumer protection guidelines. For additional information about state licensing verification, see the National Association of Insurance Commissioners […]
How can I tell if an insurance agent is legitimate?
Direct answer You can verify legitimacy by checking the agent’s license number through your state’s Department of Insurance website and ensuring they represent a carrier licensed to do business in your state. State insurance commissioner licensing databases and consumer protection guidelines. For additional information about verifying a professional’s credentials, see the National Association of Insurance […]
