Word & Brown has released an upgrade to the Forms & Docs search tool on wordandbrown.com, giving brokers a faster, more intuitive way to find what they need.
Tech Team Updates for September 2025
The Tech Team Updates for this month offer more news you can use concerning Ease and its transition to Employee Navigator (EN), which is continuing throughout 2025.
Understanding ACA Medical Loss Ratio (MLR) Rebate Requirements and Employer Options
The Affordable Care Act requires Medical Loss Ratio rebates when health plans fall short of required minimum spending on care and activities to improve the quality of care. Get details on 2024 rebates due in September in Paul Roberts’s new column.
California Law Fertility and IVF Coverage
California’s infertility and IVF mandate for fully insured plans just got a last-minute extension to January 1, 2026. The Legislature approved the change via a late-June budget trailer bill. Here’s what benefits professionals need to know about the delay — and what hasn’t changed.
Kaiser Permanente Plus - KP Plus - Available for 2026 Quoting 10/1
Competitively priced KP Plus plans offer members access to top-rated care from Kaiser Permanente plus licensed providers outside the Kaiser Permanente network.
Medicare Part D Notices - What Brokers Need to Know for 2025 and 2026
Medicare Part D creditable coverage notices are due October 14, 2025. IRA changes and a new CMS test impact employer plans. Fully insured carriers handle statuses, but self-funded and level-funded employers must confirm theirs. Resources are available to assist fully-insured clients.
“One Big Beautiful Bill” Impact on ACA Premiums, Other Programs
Industry News post for August 2025; fallout of "Big Beautiful Bill"