As health insurance rates soar heading into 2026, ClaimLinx CEO Tom Quigley returns with a critical breakdown of how small businesses can still save money on employee benefits—despite looming subsidy cuts and state-approved rate hikes.
From understanding the difference between individual and group plans, to setting up MERPs (Medical Expense Reimbursement Plans) and HSAs, this episode is your no-nonsense guide to beating the system legally and keeping more cash in your company’s pocket.
If you're a small business owner looking to cut your healthcare budget in half without cutting coverage—this episode is a must-listen.
📈 Why 2026 Could Bring Massive Rate Increases
State Departments of Insurance are greenlighting premium hikes
Loss of ACA subsidies could shrink the individual market
💸 What’s a MERP?
How a Medical Expense Reimbursement Plan gives employers total control
Offers tax-free savings for businesses and employees
Can work alongside group, individual, Medicare, or spousal plans
🧠 HSAs vs FSAs: What’s the Difference?
Health Savings Accounts (HSA) = carry over, tax-free, and better for long-term strategy
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) = use-it-or-lose-it
🧮 Why It’s All Just Math
The “batter up” flashcard analogy for fast calculations
The importance of understanding real savings—not just choosing the cheapest plan
⚖️ Individual Plans vs Group Plans
Individual plans are often cheaper (thanks to federal regulation and COVID-era pricing)
Group plans = better for control, especially with level-funded options
How businesses under 50 employees can optimize both
📊 Plan Audits and Rate Negotiation
Uncover hidden savings
Maximize value for both employer and employee
What traditional brokers won’t tell you (because it cuts their commission)
“MERPs are like an HSA for your company. Tax-free, low risk, and your employees win.”
“The insurance companies are losing their shirts? Capital B, capital S. Fill in the blanks.”
“If you're paying $2,000 per month for a family plan—do the math. There's a better way.”
Stop overpaying for health insurance in 2026.
Let the ClaimLinx team model your savings and show you a smarter way to offer benefits.
📞 Book a free consultation at: www.claimlinx.com
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