When the Calendar Shifts: Preparing for an Extra Payroll Cycle in 2026 | Benefits Collaborative

Most employers follow standard payroll schedules—monthly, weekly, semi-monthly, or biweekly—with biweekly cycles being the most common. Nearly half of organizations pay employees every other week. In 2026, however, employers using a biweekly schedule may encounter an unusual twist. Because New Year’s Day in 2027 falls on a federal holiday, companies that typically issue Friday paychecks … Continued

Filing Form 5500 | Benefits Collaborative

If your company provides an employee benefit plan governed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), you are likely obligated to file Form 5500. This annual report discloses key details about your organization’s benefit offerings, such as welfare benefit plans (including medical, dental, life, and disability coverage), retirement plans, fully insured plans, and self-funded … Continued

ACA Update: IRS Announces 2027 Cost-Sharing Limits | Benefits Collaborative

On January 29, 2026, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) officially released the maximum cost-sharing limits for the 2027 plan year. These figures represent a significant 13.2% increase over the 2026 limits, marking a substantial shift in potential out-of-pocket expenses for plan participants. 2027 Maximum Out-of-Pocket Limits For 2027, the maximum annual … Continued

Educating Your Workforce: Unlocking the Power of Voluntary Benefits | Benefits Collaborative

Offering voluntary benefits is an excellent way to strengthen your overall benefits package, stand out from competitors, and enhance employee satisfaction—all with minimal impact on your budget. However, while employers often provide a wide range of voluntary benefits designed to offer value and convenience, many employees may not fully understand what these benefits are or … Continued

Educating Employees on Increasing Healthcare Costs | Benefits Collaborative

Health care costs in the United States continue to rise, increasing pressure on both employers and employees. Organizations that provide health benefits must balance growing expenses with transparency and trust from their workforce. Clear, compassionate communication is key to helping employees understand and navigate these rising costs. Consider these strategies: Craft messaging that is clear, … Continued

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