If you’re a business owner frustrated by rising health insurance premiums and limited options, you’re not alone. The traditional small group market can feel inflexible, overpriced, and—let’s be honest—like you’re paying a lot for very little control.
That’s why more employers are turning to level-funded health plans. But what exactly are they—and are they a smart move for your company?
What Is a Level-Funded Plan?
A level-funded plan is a hybrid between traditional fully insured plans and self-funded plans. Here’s how it works:
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You pay a predictable monthly fee that includes administrative costs, stop-loss coverage, and expected claims funding.
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If your group’s claims are lower than expected, you may receive a refund or surplus at the end of the year.
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If claims are higher, your stop-loss insurance kicks in to protect you from going over budget.
The Perks:
✅ Cost Savings – Many employers save 10–20% compared to fully insured plans.
✅ Surplus Opportunities – If your team is healthy, you get money back.
✅ Custom Plan Design – You can tailor benefits more closely to your team’s needs.
✅ More Transparency – You’ll actually see claims data to understand where your dollars go.
The Considerations:
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Not all companies qualify—typically, you need at least 5 enrolled employees and a relatively healthy group. Some insurance companies require more employees.
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Surplus isn’t guaranteed, but we work to model potential outcomes based on your demographics.
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Transitioning to level-funded means some operational changes—but we handle all the heavy lifting.
Why Employers Like It
Level-funded plans strike a rare balance: predictable monthly costs and the opportunity to save if your team’s claims are low. It’s a way to take control without taking on unnecessary risk.
Let’s Explore the Options
We’ve helped dozens of clients successfully transition to level-funded plans—and saved them thousands. If you're curious whether it’s a fit for your business, let’s run the numbers.