Maximize Savings: Ancillary Benefits for Employees | Solstice

Offering dental and vision benefits to employees improves morale and productivity. As an insurance broker you probably know this already. However, did you know that employers can also unlock hidden tax savings by providing these ancillary benefits to their employees.

Employers offering dental and vision insurance can see a significant return on investment, leading to potential savings of over $2,700 annually per employee. 

9 out of 10 organizations in the U.S. currently offer dental and vision insurance. This varies based on factors like company size, industry, and region. If your clients are not currently enrolled in dental and vision benefits now is the time to talk to them. It can be a big win for all involved.

Key Takeaways:

• Offering dental and vision benefits enhances employee morale and productivity.
• Employers can achieve significant tax savings by providing these benefits.
• Dental and vision benefits are cost-effective compared to other health insurance plans.
• Early detection and treatment of dental and vision issues can reduce overall healthcare costs.
• These benefits are valuable for attracting and retaining employees. There is an ROI of $7 for every dollar invested in vision benefits.
• Pre-tax contributions for these benefits can reduce the employer's FICA contributions and are non-taxable for employees.

The Financial Upside of Dental & Vision Benefits for Employers

First, dental and vision insurance are inexpensive benefits, especially compared to other health insurance plans. 

By offering dental and vision benefits your clients can potentially reduce their overall healthcare costs. Dental and vision problems can lead to more costly medical conditions if left unaddressed. Early detection and treatment through using benefits is key.

Additionally, dental and vision benefits can serve as a valuable tool in attracting and retaining talent. For every dollar invested in vision benefits, employers see an ROI of $7.

In a competitive job market, offering comprehensive benefits packages is a must. Dental and vision insurance can set your business apart from others and make it a more appealing place to work.

How Dental & Vision Benefits Translate to Tax Deductions

One of the key advantages of providing dental and vision benefits is the potential for tax deductions. The expenses incurred for offering benefits to employees can often be deducted as a business expense. This means that the money spent on things like premiums, exams, glasses, and contact lenses can reduce overall taxable income. Here’s how it breaks down:

• Employer Tax Deductions: Employer contributions to ancillary plans are often tax-deductible, reducing the overall tax burden on the business. 
• Lower Employer FICA Contributions: Using pre-tax dollars to pay for benefits can also reduce the employer's FICA (Social Security and Medicare) contributions. 

Furthermore, pretax contributions made towards dental and vision benefits are generally considered a non-taxable fringe benefit for employees. This can result in additional tax savings for both the employer and the employees.

Boosting Employee Productivity and Satisfaction

Employees who have access to dental and vision benefits are more likely to regularly go to the doctor. Early detection of dental and vision issues through regular check-ups can lead to fewer sick days and improved employee productivity. 

Offering these benefits can also improve employee morale and job satisfaction. This leads to better retention rates. When employees feel their employer cares about their well-being, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated at work.

Understanding the Tax Code

Navigating the tax code can be complex. However, understanding the specific provisions related to vision benefits can help you maximize tax savings.

According to IRS guidelines, dental and vision expenses qualify as deductible medical expenses under certain conditions. It's important for participants to keep detailed records of all dental and vision-related expenses and consult with a tax professional to ensure they are taking full advantage of available deductions.

Additionally, Section 125 cafeteria plans, which are employee benefits plans, allow participants to pay for dental and vision benefits with pre-tax dollars. This further enhances the tax benefits for both employers and employees.

Types of Dental and Vision Plans

Here are the common types of dental and vision plans that might be available to your clients:

• PPO: Members get access to a network of preferred providers with set service prices. There are lower costs when you stay in-network. Coverage for out-of-network care comes at a higher out-of-pocket cost.
• HMO:  In-network providers must be used for coverage, except in emergencies. A primary care physician (PCP) needs to be selected to coordinate care and referrals.
• Indemnity Insurance:  Traditional insurance, also known as an indemnity plan, typically cover 80% of healthcare costs, leaving members to pay 20%.
• Point of Service:  A point of service (POS) plan partners with clinics, hospitals, and doctors to offer lower out-of-pocket costs within the network.
• Direct Reimbursement:  Direct Reimbursement allows patients to choose any provider, then pay directly and submit proof of treatment.

The Cost of Dental and Vision Insurance

Now we will look at dental and vision insurance by the numbers, when it comes to the cost for employers and employees:

• Premiums: The cost of dental and vision insurance premiums varies depending on the plan, coverage levels, and the employer's size and location. The average premium for family coverage costs $1,710 per month. 80% of private industry workers have medical care plans that required them to contribute to that premium.
• Employer Contributions: Employers typically contribute a portion of money to the premium, with some plans offering 100% coverage for certain services. 
• Employee Contributions: Employees often contribute a portion of the premiums, depending on the employer's contribution and the plan. 
• Group Dental Insurance: The average dental insurance policy with comprehensive coverage costs $52 a month. Meanwhile, a preventive care plan costs an average of $26 a month.
• Group Vision Insurance: Typically, vision plan premiums range between $5 and $15 per employee per month, depending on benefits selected.
• Employer Costs: The average cost for healthcare per employee-hour worked is $3.44 for private industry workers.
• Benefits Cost: In 2021, benefits cost the equivalent of $12.52 per hour, accounting for 31% of total compensation. 

Offering dental and vision benefits is not just a smart financial move for employers. They are a fantastic way to boost employee happiness and productivity. By investing in these benefits, businesses can enjoy great tax savings, lower healthcare costs, and really shine in a competitive job market. As an insurance broker, you have the chance to guide your clients toward these benefits, making sure they get the most out of comprehensive benefits packages. Now is the perfect time to chat with your clients. You can help them discover the amazing potential of dental and vision insurance for a healthier, more motivated team.

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