Small Business Benefits

All businesses must learn where to get relevant and honest, trusted advice. UPstream advisors are experienced and cutting-edge, and we are excited about the opportunity to help your business continue its success. When a new business starts, there are plenty of things to consider, such as taxes, licenses, fees, permits, and employee benefits. You can quickly become overwhelmed by the number of decisions you need to make. UPstream started exactly where you are now, and although we cannot promise you success, we can promise you will need help from others. We would love to partner with you and help you protect yourself, your family, and your employees as your business grows and prospers.

Starting Small

Don't bite off more than you can chew. If you're not ready for the expense of providing health benefits, what about group disability, life, or accident? These types of benefits are less expensive than you think! You can also establish cost-sharing with your staff or even offer them on an employee-paid basis. Don't lose sight of what employee benefits are. They are “benefits” and meant to add value, not to detract from what you are trying to accomplish.

Employee Benefit Basics

As a small company, you are not required to provide benefits such as; medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. Many businesses do because it provides them a competitive edge over their competition. We see some small companies adding extra income to employees' salaries in order for them to purchase individual coverage. A smarter way to stretch the employer's and employee's dollars is to have a group medical plan that reduces taxable income, gives you greater access to providers in North Carolina, and is generally less expensive.

Benefits Cost

Generally, the cost for small companies providing medical coverage for their staff depends on the business location, the ages of your employees, and the type of plan you choose. To better understand the cost of a medical, dental, or vision group insurance plan, we start with a census of your full-time benefits-eligible staff. An UPstream advisor will put together an easy-to-understand proposal for you and walk you through it, answering any questions you may have. As independent advisors, we can show you multiple insurance providers. Don't make assumptions based on what others say; contact us today to find out for yourself.