The Shocking Truth is that you will only realize 70% of the value of a traditional health plan.
The reality is that for the small businesses (especially the sole owner type), monthly health benefit plans are designed to yield around 30% in profit for the Providers when it comes to routine health care expenses. On average, for a small business, you will only get out 70% of the premiums you put in – the traditional monthly plans are designed that way. And, if you claim more in one year, your premiums or limitations will normally increase to maintain that 70/30 ratio.
A Health Spending Account is a great alternative for entrepreneurs.
In contrast, a Health Spending Account (HSA) is far more cost effective for these routine health care expenses, without the artificial percentage and coverage limitations imposed by the insurance carriers. For example, most monthly health plans cover 80% for routine cleaning, up to a fixed annual limit per person. HSA’s have no percentage limits imposed – 100% is covered.
Monthly health plans typically cover only certain services. Few monthly plans cover things like glasses, massage therapy, orthotics, contacts, laser eye surgery, etc. A Health Spending Account allow entrepreneurs’ and their dependents to gain access to a full spectrum of health care services.
The final good news is that Revenue Canada (CRA) allows incorporated Canadian businesses to write-off 100% of the costs of a Health Spending Account, and all claim reimbursements to employees (and dependents) are completely tax-free.
Is it any wonder that today the majority of small Canadian incorporated businesses are now looking at a Health Spending Account, as either their primary, or secondary form of health coverage.
The bottom-line is that it is more economical to cover the routine costs, and the broader range of health care services through a Health Spending Account. In these situations, the monthly benefits plans are more restrictive, more costly and far less flexible.