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Increased Financial Control - In a self-funded plan, funds can be contributed to an employer-established account and transferred only when needed to pay claims and expenses.

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Lower Costs - In most states, premium taxes, which usually range from 2% to 6% of costs, do not apply to self-funded claims funds. Insurance company profits, risk charges and many costly state-mandated benefits are also avoided.

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Flexibility - With added pressures and a growing desire to meet the changing needs of employees, self-funding allows employers to design a health benefit plan to address specific conditions as well as company objectives.

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Costs Management - Self-funded plan designs can include strategies to monitor utilization, audit claims, implement and verify all discounted provider arrangements and assure appropriateness of care.

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Information Management - In addition, self-funding provides easy, secure access to all the information needed to manage a plan effectively. Management receives confidential claim and funding reports each month; everyone involved, employer, member, provider and agent receives secure online access to important benefit-related information.