A Health Reimbursement Agreement, also known as a Health Reimbursement Arrangement, or HRA, is a type of employer-sponsored healthcare benefit plan. It is designed to reimburse employees for certain healthcare expenses that are not covered by their regular health insurance plan.
Unlike a traditional health insurance plan, an HRA is funded entirely by the employer. The employer sets aside a certain amount of money each year for each employee that is enrolled in the plan. The employee can then use this money to pay for eligible healthcare expenses, such as deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance.
One of the main advantages of an HRA is that it allows employers to customize their employees` healthcare benefits to fit their specific needs. For example, an employer may choose to offer an HRA with a low deductible and high coinsurance, or vice versa. This flexibility can help employers attract and retain top talent, and it can also help employees save money on their healthcare costs.
Another advantage of an HRA is that it can help employers control their healthcare costs. Unlike a traditional health insurance plan, an HRA is a defined contribution plan. This means that the employer knows exactly how much money they will be spending on healthcare benefits each year. This can help employers budget more effectively and avoid unexpected expenses.
There are several different types of HRAs that employers can choose from, including integrated HRAs, standalone HRAs, and retiree HRAs. Each type of HRA has different rules and regulations, so it is important for employers to consult with a qualified benefits advisor before selecting a plan.
In conclusion, a Health Reimbursement Agreement is an employer-sponsored healthcare benefit plan that can help employers customize their employees` healthcare benefits, control their healthcare costs, and attract and retain top talent. If you are an employer looking to offer healthcare benefits to your employees, an HRA may be a good option for you.