Questions to bring to your benefits renewal
Use these questions to make the decision easier to assess. Ask for clear assumptions, written comparisons, and a workable implementation schedule.
Quick answer
A useful renewal discussion explains what is changing, what alternatives were considered, and what each option means for the employer and employees.
Seven useful questions
| Ask | A useful answer includes |
|---|---|
| What changed in our renewal? | Rates, benefits, networks, prescriptions, and the factors the carrier can explain. |
| Which alternatives did we compare? | Available options using consistent census and contribution assumptions, plus reasons others were not suitable. |
| What will employees pay? | Employee-only and dependent payroll costs, deductible exposure, and illustrative covered-care costs. |
| Should we consider another funding arrangement? | Availability and contract terms, including risk, fees, runout, and any surplus conditions. |
| Which compliance tasks need coordination? | Named employer, payroll, broker, and vendor responsibilities; relevant dates and data. |
| How will employees get help? | Education formats, new-hire support, claims assistance, and the contact process. |
| What happens after we decide? | Submission deadlines, confirmations, communication, enrollment, and any transition work. |
Distinguish unavailable information from an unanswered question
Not every market provides the same claims detail, quote timing, or product options. Ask what is available, what remains uncertain, and how the recommendation accounts for it. Avoid judging the arrangement on a single response without reviewing the facts.
Confirm services and fees
WIB provides client education and optional, customized Employee Navigator access at no extra fee. Employer administrators enter hires and terminations; WIB handles carrier changes. We coordinate third-party COBRA administrators and assist with ACA paperwork and vendor coordination. Third-party COBRA fees may apply and can be waived for some groups. Tax, legal, and prevailing-wage calculation work belongs with specialists.
Record the decision
- Selected plan, contribution, and effective date.
- Reasons for the choice and any assumptions still needing confirmation.
- People responsible for carrier, payroll, employee, and vendor tasks.
- A communication and enrollment calendar.
Sources checked September 19, 2026. General information; your plan and circumstances matter.
IRS · ALEIRS · employerPremera · fundingTalk through the next step.
Share your renewal date and the decision you are considering.