Changes Coming to How Medicare Covers Telehealth
Many people are well aware of the benefits of telehealth, including convenience and flexibility, as well as access to a broader range of specialists. Under Medicare’s original rules, telehealth services were intended mainly for rural residents , with the aim of connecting patients with remote specialists from an approved medical facility, like a local clinic. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Medicare temporarily made it easier for people to get care from home through telehealth, no matter where they lived. This change allowed beneficiaries to have video or phone visits with their doctors right from their living rooms — a huge help for people with mobility challenges or those living in urban or suburban areas.
Starting October 1, 2025, unless new laws are passed, this pandemic-era home access will end for many services under Original Medicare. The guidelines will revert back to the original rule, meaning in most cases, you will need to be at an approved medical site in a rural area to use telehealth. There are a few notable exceptions, including mental health counseling, substance use disorder treatments, dialysis visits, and a few other services, which will still be covered from your home, wherever you live. If you rely on telehealth, it’s smart to ask your provider now what services you can still get from home, and whether they offer extra telehealth benefits beyond basic Medicare. Some Medicare Advantage Plans may offer more telehealth benefits than the basic coverage in Original Medicare. Stay informed and consult with your licensed insurance agent to help you plan ahead for any changes to your care routine in the coming months.
Life Insurance Scams Are Surging in 2025—Here’s How to Stay Safe
Life insurance is more essential than ever, but in 2025 it’s also become a prime target for scammers. With more policies being sold and managed online, criminals are using AI-generated emails, fake websites, and spoofed phone calls to impersonate agents, file fraudulent claims, and steal personal information.
Common schemes include fake policy offers with low premiums and no real coverage, calls from imposters posing as insurers asking for Social Security numbers, and even cases of criminals impersonating beneficiaries to claim death benefits.
Protecting yourself starts with vigilance. Always verify an agent’s license through your state’s insurance department and confirm that your insurer is registered with the NAIC. Be cautious with unsolicited messages, and never click links or share sensitive information without confirming the sender’s legitimacy. If you suspect a scam, report it immediately to your insurer, your state insurance regulator, or the FTC. Life insurance should offer peace of mind—not open the door to fraud.
HRAs: Tax-Smart Benefit Flexibility for Employers and Employees
Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs) offer a flexible, tax-advantaged way for employers to support their employees' healthcare needs. With recent legislative proposals, HRAs are poised to become even more beneficial.
What Are HRAs?
HRAs are employer-funded plans that reimburse employees for qualified medical expenses and, in some cases, individual health insurance premiums. Two common types include:
- Individual Coverage HRA (ICHRA): Available to employers of all sizes, allowing reimbursements for individual health insurance premiums.
- Qualified Small Employer HRA (QSEHRA): Designed for employers with fewer than 50 full-time employees, offering a set allowance for medical expenses.
Tax Benefits
- For Employers: Contributions to HRAs are tax-deductible business expenses, reducing overall taxable income.
- For Employees: Reimbursements received through HRAs are generally tax-free, provided they are used for qualified medical expenses.
Why Consider HRAs?
HRAs provide a cost-effective alternative to traditional group health insurance, offering:
- Flexibility: Employees choose the health plans that best fit their needs.
- Cost Control: Employers set defined contribution amounts, aiding in budget predictability.
- Tax Advantages: Both employers and employees benefit from tax savings.
Proposed Legislative Enhancements
With potential legislative enhancements on the horizon, now is an opportune time for employers to explore HRAs as a strategic component of their employee benefits offerings. Proposed federal legislation could offer tax credits to small businesses and allow pre-tax premium payments.