Level Funding:
A Simple Guide

Level funding is a health insurance approach that blends features of traditional fully-insured plans with self-funded plans. Learn more about how it works and what it means for employers.

What is Level Funding?

Level funding is an innovative healthcare financing option that combines elements of self-insurance with the predictability of traditional fully insured plans. It’s designed for small to medium-sized businesses looking to gain more control over their healthcare costs without taking on excessive risk or administrative burden.

How Level Funding Works

1. Fixed Monthly Payments:

  • Companies pay a set amount each month, similar to a traditional insurance premium.
  • This amount is calculated based on expected claims, stop-loss insurance, and administrative fees.
  • Payments remain consistent throughout the year, providing budget stability.

2. Stop-Loss Insurance:

  • To protect against unexpectedly high claims, stop-loss insurance is included.
  • This coverage kicks in if individual or aggregate claims exceed predetermined thresholds.

3. Administrative Services:

  • NARFA handles all paperwork and claim processing.
  • This includes employee enrollment, claims adjudication, and all member service.

4. Network Access:

  • Employees gain access to a broad network of healthcare providers with the Cigna National PPO Network.

5. Reporting and Analysis:

  • Employers receive detailed reports on healthcare spending and utilization.
  • This data can be used to make informed decisions about future plan designs.

Advantages for Employers

1. Cost Control:

  • Potential for significant savings.

2. Customization:

  • Ability to tailor plan designs to meet the specific needs of your workforce.
  • Flexibility to adjust coverage options and contribution strategies.

3. Transparency:

  • Detailed reporting provides insight into healthcare spending patterns.
  • Better understanding of what drives costs in your health plan.

4. Predictable Budgeting:

  • Fixed monthly payments allow for easier financial planning.
  • Protection against unexpected high claims through stop-loss insurance.

5. Reduced Administrative Burden:

  • NARFA handles day-to-day plan management.
  • Employers can focus on their core business rather than healthcare logistics.

6. Potential Tax Advantages:

  • Consult with a tax professional for specific guidance.

Advantages for Employees

1. Continuity of Care:

  • Employees can typically keep their existing doctors and healthcare providers.
  • No disruption to ongoing treatments or established medical relationships.

2. Broad Network Access:

  • Access to a large network of healthcare providers (e.g., Cigna National PPO Network).
  • Freedom to choose preferred doctors and hospitals.

3. Stable Coverage:

  • From the employee’s perspective, the plan functions like traditional insurance.
  • No change in how they access care or use their benefits.

4. Potential for Enhanced Benefits:

  • Surplus to be used to offset future premium increases.
  • Possibility of more tailored coverage options that meet specific workforce needs.

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Example 1: Surplus to Offset Future Premium Increases

Auto Repair Shop (5 Employees)

Traditional Plan $57,600/year
Level funded $48,385/year
Potential Savings $9,215/year

Example 2: Stop Loss Kicks In with Higher Than Expected Claims

Fuel Distributor (10 employees)

Traditional Plan $208,800/year
Projected Claims $146,160/year
Actual Claims $167,040
Administration $62,640
Stop Loss Covers $20,880

Example 3: Break Even Scenario

Automotive Dealership (40 employees)

Traditional Plan $684,000/year
Level funded $576,560/year
Claims $402,192
Administration $172,368

Any surplus is utilized to offset future premium increases and healthcare costs 

Is Level Funding Right for Your Business?

Level funding may be an excellent option if your company:

Offset future premium increases with surplus

Wants more control over healthcare costs

Is looking for potential savings without increased administrative work

Desires greater transparency in healthcare spending

Keep large national insurance networks

Next Steps to Implement Level Funding

Please contact your NARFA Trust Representative for a personalized analysis, and discussion of your company needs. NARFA will turn around a recommendation and quote quickly.

By choosing level funding, businesses can gain the advantages of self-insurance—such as cost control and customization—while maintaining the simplicity and predictability of a fully insured plan. It’s a modern approach to healthcare financing that can lead to significant savings and improved benefits for both employers and employees.