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AS IT TURNS OUT, PANDEMICS AND NATURAL DISASTERS both give businesses and communities the same amount of warning: none. In the wake of COVID-19’s disruptions, many spa retailers have been swapping notes to help adapt to a new normal, which has especially affected parents with school-age children. Rachael Pritz, vice president of RB Pool and…

Many employee benefits are subject to annual dollar limits that are periodically updated for inflation by the IRS. The following commonly offered employee benefits are subject to these limits: High deductible health plans (HDHPs) and health savings accounts (HSAs); Health flexible spending accounts (FSAs); 401(k) plans; and Transportation fringe benefit plans. The IRS typically announces…

While any workers’ compensation claims can result in costly ramifications for your organization, one category of claim in particular—known as a “mega claim”—has the potential to carry significant consequences. True to its name, a mega claim is characterized as an exceptionally large claim—typically totaling $3 million or more in incurred losses. In the realm of…

The employee benefit landscape is constantly evolving, and business owners must keep pace. No longer is the traditional offering of basic medical and ancillary products providing employers with the competitive edge. In the battle to attract, retain and engage employees, data driven long-term strategic plans provide win/win opportunities for both employers and employees alike. A…

Owning and operating a construction company in today’s world is remarkably challenging,” said Jeff Chronister, Accredited Advisor of Insurance (AAI) with Ollis/Akers/Arney. He cites aggressive competition, rapidly changing economic conditions, limited labor force and the evolving expectations of employees over the past few decades. “Owners have to wear multiple hats. Sometimes they have to be…

On Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) clarified what “close contact” means as it relates to COVID-19-prevention guidance. Previously, the CDC defined close contact as spending 15 straight minutes within 6 feet of another person. Now, the organization redefined the term to mean a total of 15 minutes within…

The Small Business Administration (SBA) and the U.S. Department of Treasury (Treasury) recently released a simpler Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loan Forgiveness Application Form 3508S and instructions. This updated, simple two-page application is for borrowers of $50,000 or less, and is not for use by borrowers who received PPP loans totaling $2 million or more…

“Frankly, I think education is the biggest thing we do,” says Jeff Eiserman, Certified Insurance Counselor working in Property and Casualty with Ollis/Akers/Arney Insurance and Business Advisors. “People come to us because insurance is really complicated, and they need good expert advice.” One of the biggest costs for some employers is workers’ compensation. “On an…

For three of the last four years an Ollis/ Akers/Arney Insurance & Business Advisors commercial risk account manager has won the National Alliance for Insurance Education & Research Outstanding Customer Service Award. Robin Talty (2017), Beth Kensinger (2019), and Ashlae Cook (2020) were each recognized for demonstrating outstanding service and professionalism within the insurance community…

PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 15, 2020 SPRINGFIELD, MO – Richard Ollis, CEO of Ollis/Akers/Arney, was recently elected to serve on the board of directors for the Missouri Association of Insurance Agents representing Region 10. The primary mission of the association is to provide marketing education and resources to independent agencies, agents and…