Understanding ERISA Regulations for Voluntary Benefit Programs

ARTICLE | August 12, 2025

Voluntary benefit programs enhance an employer’s benefit offerings without significantly increasing costs. These programs, often including supplemental insurance, wellness initiatives, or discounted services, let employees pick and choose additional coverage or support based on personal needs. Because they usually require little or no financial contribution from the employer, many organizations assume these benefits automatically fall outside the scope of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). However, ERISA regulations can extend to voluntary benefit programs under certain circumstances, and failing to recognize these obligations can lead to unnecessary penalties and legal exposure.

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