News
The Latest Carrier Updates, Legal Alerts, Industry News and more.
Anthem Premium Credit, Blue Shield Q1 Rates and Renewals, Humana Dual Choice, UnitedHealthcare Bonus Program, CMS Registration Moratorium
Thursday, October 15 2026
Carrier Updates
As you help small groups transition from Health Net, Kaiser Permanente is offering additional compensation for eligible groups with effective dates from October 1, 2026 , through March 1, 2027 . Brokers can earn $75 per new small group member, plus cumulative bonuses of up to $7,000 when transitioning 20 groups. Eligible total replacement renewals may also qualify for $100 per net new member and $1,000 per existing group when Kaiser Permanente becomes the sole carrier. This limited-time program gives brokers an opportunity to support clients through their transition while earning additional compensation. Reviewing eligible groups early can help identify potential opportunities and allow more time to prepare for upcoming effective dates. Dickerson can help you evaluate eligibility, explore available Kaiser Permanente options, and navigate the transition process. For assistance transitioning eligible groups, contact your Dickerson Sales Representative.
Carrier Updates
Blue Shield has released its Q1 2027 Small Business rates, now available through preferred quoting engines, with a statewide average increase of 3.4% . January renewal information will be available through Shield Renewals beginning October 20 , followed by February and March renewals on November 4. Brokers should review upcoming renewals early to evaluate plan options, prepare client recommendations, and develop a competitive Q1 strategy. Early preparation also provides more time to assess rate impacts and identify the right solutions for each group. Use these upcoming renewal releases to begin meaningful client conversations and address potential plan changes before key deadlines. Dickerson can help you navigate available options and position your clients for a successful Q1 renewal. To learn more about Blue Shield’s increased underwriting flexibility, contact your Dickerson Sales Representative.
Carrier Updates
REMINDER: As you review Humana coverage options for your groups, keep the dual choice requirements in mind to help ensure plan combinations meet participation and benefit guidelines. Dental and vision plans require at least 10 enrolled employees. For dental, the implant rider must be included on both plans or excluded from both. For vision, frame allowances must be at least one benefit level apart, although a two-level difference is recommended to create more distinct choices for employees. Selecting plans with meaningful benefit differences can help employees better understand and compare their available options. Reviewing these requirements early can also help avoid revisions during the quoting and enrollment process. Dickerson can help you evaluate available plan combinations and identify solutions that align with each group’s needs. Review available Humana coverage options with your Dickerson Sales Representative today.
Carrier Updates
Eligible small groups moving from Health Net to Anthem with effective dates from October 1, 2026 , through March 1, 2027 , can receive a credit equal to one month of dental and vision premiums. Groups must enroll in qualifying Anthem dental and vision coverage and complete their first two months of coverage. The credit will then be applied to the group’s third-month invoice, providing additional savings during the transition. Groups sold through Dickerson are eligible for this program. This promotion gives brokers an added incentive to discuss Anthem coverage with Health Net clients evaluating their options. The premium credit can help reduce costs as groups transition to new medical and specialty benefits. For More Details Click Here Fore More Information or Help Quoting Kaiser Permanente, Please Contact Your Dickerson Sales Representative.
Carrier Updates
UnitedHealthcare is offering a one-time bonus for eligible Health Net groups with effective dates from October 1, 2026, through June 1, 2027 . Brokers can earn $60 per enrolled employee for fully insured and level funded groups, based on enrollment as of June 30, 2027 . For example, a group with 90 enrolled employees would generate $5,400 in additional compensation. This program gives brokers an opportunity to support clients transitioning from Health Net while earning additional compensation. Reviewing eligible groups early can provide more time to compare UnitedHealthcare options and prepare recommendations for upcoming effective dates. Groups sold through Dickerson are eligible for this bonus program. Contact your Dickerson Sales Representative for assistance evaluating group eligibility and navigating the transition.
Industry News
CMS is temporarily pausing 2027 Marketplace registration for agents and brokers who do not have an active Exchange Agreement for 2026. The moratorium applies in states that use a Federally-facilitated Marketplace or federal platform. Agents and brokers should verify their 2026 agreement status before preparing for 2027 Marketplace registration. To Read More Click Here