News

USAble Standards

Group Insurance Services and USAble Life are committed to outstanding customer service. As a reflection of that commitment, we have worked diligently to establish service standards that support our dedication to superior service and your dedication to your customers. Listed below are a few of the areas in which adjustments have been made. For a complete overview of Group Insurance Services and USAble standards, please contact GIS at 888-350-4474.

 Enhancements Include:

• Correspondence, phone and email response times
• Proposal preparation guidelines
• New Business processing
• Additions, terminations, change requests
• Billing adjustments
• Claims processing and payment

IRS Rules Regarding Debit Cards to Change in 2008

Effective January 1, 2008 special purpose debit cards can only be used at non-healthcare related merchant locations and online pharmacies that have implemented an Inventory Information Approval System (IIAS) as defined by the IRS. An IIAS recognizes whether an expense is eligible or ineligible for medical care under IRS 213(d). The cards will continue to be accepted at health care related merchants and service providers such as doctors, dentists and vision care centers.

After January 1, flexible spending account card holders will not be able to use their card at grocery stores, discount stores, mail order stores, or any other retailer unless the retailer has implemented an IIAS. Drug stores and retail pharmacies that use a pharmacy merchant category code have until January 1, 2009 to comply. The debit cards will continue to be approved at all retail pharmacy locations through 2008.

The following is a link to most of the locations that are or will be IIAS compatible:

IIAS compatible location link

Brokers Wanted!

USAble is planning to participate in a survey with medical brokers from across the country.  The purpose of the survey is to gain a better understanding of how the medical brokers fit into the voluntary marketplace in the merging of group and ancillary/voluntary benefits.  The survey will be conducted by phone through Eastbridge.  We encourage your participation and if you would like voice your opinion please call us at 1-888- so we can register you for participation.