One in three employers outsources all of their benefit administration, up 20% since 2013, according to a study by the Guardian. Employers are also using more vendors for support. Nearly two-thirds that outsource some benefit administration use multiple vendors, up from 48% in 2013. Employers of all sizes are realizing the need to improve efficiency; keep compliant with requirements of the ACA, FMLA, and ADA; and improve the enrollment experience. They will need to rely more on external expertise to meet their goals, according to the study.
Only half of employers say their company is very effective in tracking and managing employee leave, including FMLA, disability, and other paid-time off. Nearly two-thirds of employers outsource some aspects of the enrollment process, such as preparing enrollment materials (49%) and presenting at enrollment meetings (48%). Only 31% outsource the development of their enrollment strategy. Having a decentralized approach lessens the effectiveness of enrollment activities. It’s best to outsource enrollment strategies to integrate services that support employee decision-making, according to the study. Ray Marra, senior vice president, Group Products at Guardian said that outside expertise can help companies transform their benefit package with a broader range of employee benefits and related services. For more information, visit https://www.guardiananytime.com/2015-workplace-benefits-study.