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Executive Summary

Higginbotham’s mission is to exceed the expectations of our clients, employees, carriers, and communities in a partnership to deliver a single source for insurance and financial services Since our partnership began in 2016, it has been our goal at Higginbotham to meet and surpass the service expectations you have for us. We are excited about this opportunity to expand upon our longstanding partnership with Linebarger, Goggan, Blair & Sampson.

Our role at Higginbotham is to ensure LGBS that your employees receive the best possible customer experience. A knowledgeable and responsive broker helps employers navigate complex insurance plans, compliance requirements, and cost-saving opportunities. Exceptional customer service ensures timely communication, quick issue resolution, and proactive recommendations tailored to your needs. By providing clear guidance and ongoing support, we enhance the overall benefits experience making benefits management smoother and more effective for you and your team.

Some of the value propositions that set us apart:

§ Innovative Medical Plan Consulting

At Higginbotham, we have the footprint in the insurance market that makes the latest and most innovative benefits available to our clients as well as the tools to provide in-depth actuarial analysis of claims, contracting, Rx spending, and predictive modeling. We work closely with your team to design, implement, and manage your health plan, and strategically align your supplemental lines of coverage with the medical.

§ Day Two Services®

Higginbotham places a tremendous amount of energy and resources into our Day Two Services, like our yearround Employee Response Center (Call Center), Population Health Management team, data analytics, billing and reconciliation services, benefits administration tools, and our people. We know that our success comes from your long-term client satisfaction.

§ A Dedicated Service Culture

Your dedicated service team includes Account Management, Account Coordinator, Billing Representatives, Benefits Technology Representatives, and special services from the Higginbotham Medical Team. Our service team is fully licensed, salaried, and service-oriented.

We appreciate the opportunity to respond to your RFQ and expand on our relationship with LGBS while bringing the same level of expertise, responsiveness, and integrated support that you have come to expect from our team.

Cordially,

Kevin McCarthy Employee Benefits Consultant

About Higginbotham

The Higginbotham Difference

Operating as a single-source provider, Higginbotham have delivered significant value to clients for the past 75 years. Each team member serving LGBS is an employee-owner of Higginbotham, giving us a vested interest in your success. With a client retention rate of 99%, we take great pride in our goals, mission, and values, which have positioned us as one of the largest independent brokers in America. This unparalleled market leverage is passed on as a competitive advantage to clients like you. Fondly referred to as “The Higginbotham Difference,” our approach is focused on reducing time spent on administrative tasks related to group benefits, addressing employee queries, and managing wellness initiatives enabling you to focus on internal priorities.

About Higginbotham

Dedicated Benefits Team

Our experience is highly valuable in informing our work with those private sector clients who work closely with the public sector.

By partnering with leading insurance carriers, we design and deliver comprehensive, cost-effective employee benefits programs. Combined with industry expertise and innovative tools, we ensure every client receives a program that truly fits their organization and employees. Beyond these partners, our proprietary enrollment, education, and administration platform provides simplified benefits management empowering employees to make confident, informed choices.

Our full-service model is built around your success. Each client is supported by a dedicated team that delivers hands-on service at every stage:

• Strategic Guidance: Licensed benefits consultants provide ongoing insights, benchmarking, and plan design recommendations.

• Seamless Implementation: Our account management team coordinates plan setup, implementation, and Open Enrollment from start to finish.

• Technology Support: Our benefits technology specialists ensure smooth operation of your enrollment and administration platform.

• Billing & Reconciliation: Our billing team handles carrier billing and reconciliation to save you time and prevent costly errors.

• Employee Education: We deliver clear, engaging communications so employees understand and appreciate the value of their benefits.

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Local Higginbotham Office

Your local service office is located at

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Main Headquarters

2175 North Glenville Drive

Richardson, Texas 75082

Higginbotham

Main Headquarters

500 West 13th Street Fort Worth, Texas 76102

Day One Services

Day One Services Health Insurance Consulting

A successful employee benefits program starts with clearly defined objectives. We work closely with your Human Resources and Finance teams to understand your culture, priorities, and budget ensuring your strategy aligns with both employee needs and financial realities.

Employers today are navigating a healthcare system under increasing strain. As costs rise across insurance markets, many organizations are left absorbing higher expenses with limited control or visibility into what’s driving them.

In this environment, a more proactive and tailored approach is essential. We help employers move beyond one-size-fits-all solutions by focusing on transparency, accountability, and active plan management. This is especially important in self-funded plans, which require ongoing oversight across clinical, financial, and operational areas to perform effectively.

Health insurance offerings can vary widely, each with distinct advantages and trade-offs. Our role is to help you navigate these choices and build a benefits program that delivers sustainable value for both your employees and your organization.

Day One Services Health Insurance Consulting

Higginbotham follows a comprehensive process that allows us to review, compare, and decide on appropriate plan designs to meet the needs of LGBS. The overall goal is to develop a group health benefits program that is easy to use while maintaining the funding strategies outlined.

Our six-step process includes:

• Historical Plan Review

• RFP and Vendor Selection •

Day One Services Health Insurance Consulting

1. Historical Plan Review

We begin this phase with a discussing your current medical plan what is working and what are your areas of opportunity. During this meeting, we review:

• Current plan designs

• Claims history from the current benefits program

• Existing provider networks

• Pharmacy benefits Manager

• Stop-Loss

2. Develop Benefits Strategy

Once your plan review is complete, any alternatives (if necessary) to your current plan design, networks, and funding methodology are presented. Recommendations are focused on helping LGBS move closer to outlined goals. Focus areas vary depending on each analysis, but may include:

• Plan Performance

• Consumer-Driven Health Care Plans

• Compliance Requirements

• Healthcare Reform Requirements

• Pharmacy Consulting (Rx)

• Benefits Communication and Education

• Enrollment Technology and Benefits Administration

3. RFP and Vendor Selection

As plans and services are established, our team prepares a preliminary list of potential programs. We work jointly to identify potential markets that best serve your needs, and assist with carrier network analysis for qualified physicians and hospitals in the areas where your employees live. All proposed programs address legislation, compliance, and regulation constraints.

A formal request for proposal is then released to quality insurance providers ensuring you receive multiple proposals to consider. Vendors are selected based on plan approach, price, service quality, funding options, and level of claim detail provided.

Day One Services Health Insurance Consulting

4. Implementation

Our implementation team ensures a seamless transition from underwriting to active coverage. We align all administrative, billing, and reporting processes to reduce friction between vendors and ensure plan protections are fully in place on Day One. This phase builds the operational foundation for accurate reimbursement and ongoing claims support.

5. Servicing and Ongoing Monitoring

Throughout the year, plan performance is monitored along with tracking and measuring of operational results, clinical outcomes, financial controls, claim/member services, and quality of services, among other key areas. Client reports are provided on a monthly or quarterly basis (depending on data availability). These reports highlight areas that need to be monitored or reviewed in the coming months or year.

6. Wellness & Health Risk Management

A well-designed wellness program does more than improve the health of your employees. It enhances morale, improves productivity, boosts organizational performance, supports recruitment and retention, and contains costs but only if the program is customized to meet the needs and interests of your employees and address the goals of your company.

Our health risk management philosophy is based on five core principles:

1. Analyze Culture

Understand the current environment and employee needs.

2. Engage Leadership

Ensure management buy-in and visible support.

3. Create Awareness

Communicate clearly and consistently to motivate participation.

4. Provide Education

Equip employees with the knowledge to make lasting health improvements.

5. Measure Success

Track results to refine strategies and demonstrate ROI.

Day One Services Supplemental Benefits Consulting

Every organization has a unique workforce, culture, and set of benefits goals. That’s why our approach to supplemental and voluntary benefits begins with listening and understanding.

Strategic planning meetings and data analysis align company objectives, workforce demographics, and financial priorities. After this discovery process, we engage the carrier marketplace ensuring the most competitive plans and rates are secured. To finalize, a strategic action plan is developed that includes a comprehensive suite of voluntary and employer-paid benefits options designed to strengthen your total rewards offering.

The Value of Supplemental Benefits

As health care costs continue to rise, employees shoulder more of their personal medical expenses. Supplemental and voluntary benefits help bridge those gaps providing financial protection, peace of mind, and additional value often at little to no direct cost to the employer.

By offering these benefits, you not only enhance your employees’ well-being, but also strengthen your ability to attract and retain top talent while reducing turnover and improving satisfaction.

Day One Services Supplemental Benefits Consulting

Supplemental Health Benefits

A full range of health-related benefits can help cover unexpected expenses. Protect financial security and supplement your medical plan with:

• Dental and Vision Insurance

• Accident Insurance

• Cancer Insurance

• Critical Illness Coverage

• Hospital Indemnity Plans

• Telehealth Services

• Emergency Medical Transportation

Carrier Partnerships and Purchasing Power

Because of our firm’s size, credibility, and reputation for ethical business practices, carriers actively seek to partner with us. These preferred relationships translate into:

• Favorable contract terms, underwriting guidelines, and rate guarantees

• Enhanced service and dedicated carrier support

• Improved implementation and claims responsiveness

Financial Protection Benefits

Beyond medical coverage, we offer plans designed to safeguard income, assets, and family well-being:

• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability

• Life Insurance (including options with Long-Term Care riders)

• Identity Theft Protection

• Legal Service Plans

• Retirement Savings

• Supplemental Retirement Programs

Employee Assistance Program

Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) are a valuable, work-based resource that complements core benefits by supporting employees’ personal and emotional wellbeing.

EAPs are a confidential, employer-funded service meant to support employees in navigating personal challenges that may impact their work performance, relationships, or mental health.

Services Include:

• Confidential counseling or therapy sessions

• Stress management and resilience workshops

• Legal or financial consultations

• Parenting resources and family support

• Childcare and elder care referrals

• Wellness and lifestyle coaching

• Adoption assistance

• Career development and coaching

• Workplace conflict resolution and mediation

Day Two Services®

Higginbotham is highly regarded for our singlesource service model, which includes our unique in-house Day Two Services

This suite of services is engaged to support Human Resources (HR) staff during and after the implementation of your employee benefits program. Our menu of services includes:

• Common Remitter Billing and Reconciliation

• Section 125 Administration

• COBRA Administration

• HSA Administration

• HR Compliance

• Custom communications plan

Should the need arise, we maintain business relationships for additional support or alternate opinions. We make the following tools accessible to our clients:

• ACA Compliance

• FMLA Administration

• Population Health Management

• Mineral (formerly ThinkHR)

• Zywave's HIGGConnect

Day Two Services® Affordable Care Act Solutions

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) introduced a series of employer responsibilities designed to ensure that eligible employees have access to affordable, comprehensive health coverage. For Applicable Large Employers (ALEs), compliance includes offering Minimum Essential Coverage (MEC) to full-time employees ensuring that the coverage meets minimum value and affordability standards, and completion of annual IRS reporting through Forms 1094-C and 1095-C.

To help facilitate ACA fully, Higginbotham proudly partners with Eligibility Tracking Calculators (ETC), a woman-owned firm for ACA Tracking and Reporting that helps:

• Identify and notify client of variable-hour persons eligible for employee benefits using ACA Safe Harbors (MP/SP).

• Track and Report hours worked for 6056 reporting (1094 and 1095-C).

• Assist with determining affordability.

• Notify client when Full-Time Employees need to be enrolled.

• Track Full-Time Employees who declined coverage (ETC houses the waiver of coverage in our system if desired).

• Consult on Measurement/Stability Periods - previously decided upon or assist in choosing the right length.

• ERISA language for using MP/SP: create the ERISA wrap for client’s company.

• Represent and assist with the IRS in the formal appeals process used when defending the position of benefits.

• Available for unlimited ACA questions and access to written publications and news tips regarding ACA.

• Assume liability for tracking eligibility for the client. This service is available for a per employee per month (PEPM) fee.

By maintaining clear processes, accurate tracking of employee hours, and timely reporting, employers can avoid costly penalties while supporting the health and financial security of their workforce.

Day Two Services®

Section 125 and COBRA Administration

Section 125 Administration

Higginbotham partners with National benefits Services for the administration of Section 125 and 105(h) non-discrimination testing, ERISA, COBRA, ACA filings, and IRS tax forms, including your 5500 reporting at no pass-through cost. Our team does the heavy lifting, monitoring all filing deadlines and requirements based on your specific plan and regulatory requirements. Your HR team (and anyone else that needs it) will be set up with an account that tracks and assigns the necessary tasks required to meet each requirement.

COBRA Administration

COBRA administration is managed through National benefits Services, a long-standing partner of Higginbotham. Our Benefits Administration System provides ongoing file feeds to the NBS administration team to facilitate seamless COBRA plan management and oversight.

Our COBRA services include:

• Payment collection, including credit card

• Fully integrated web-based system and reporting for plan sponsor and participants, with access to real-time information 24/7

• Required COBRA notices

• Management of COBRA elections and premium payments

• ERISA attorneys on-staff

• Toll-free call center for participants

• One-time takeover of current COBRA participants

• Guaranteed compliance with all state and federal regulations

Day Two Services® Population Health Management

Higginbotham's Population Health Management (PHM) team has a proven track record of assisting clients in developing and implementing successful preventive health and well-being strategies over multiple years. Success is defined in terms of both the immediate health outcomes for employees and the long-term financial benefits for the employer.

This team's approach takes managing complex, costly conditions and focuses on proactive identification, personalized support, and coordination of care to improve outcomes while reducing costs. We leverage a combination of analytics, existing resources, and strategic partnerships to ensure that employees with severe illnesses receive the highest quality and most appropriate care.

Increase in Preventive Care Utilization

By encouraging regular check-ups and screenings, we facilitate the early detection and management of chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. This not only improves the quality of life for employees, but also helps to avoid costly complications down the road.

Lower Costs

Through advanced data analytics, we have demonstrated a clear correlation between participation in wellness initiatives and lower average medical and pharmacy costs. Employees who engage with wellness programs consistently have lower healthcare expenses compared to nonparticipants.

Improved Employee Health

Numerous employee testimonials credit our wellness programs with prompting them to seek care that prevented a catastrophic health event. By encouraging proactive health management, we have helped individuals avoid unnecessary costs and hardships for employees, their families, and their employers.

Day Two Services® Compliance

Higginbotham's compliance team helps interpret and comply with new and emerging rules under healthcare reform legislation, including ERISA, HIPAA, COBRA, and many other relevant regulations.

New legislation, regulations, and upcoming deadlines are proactively communicated, with responses to your compliance concerns and special circumstances handled directly. Upon engagement, we complete a compliance audit to ensure LGBS meets current ERISA and ACA requirements.

A custom compliance portal, HIGGConnect, is set up for prompt communication of compliance issues and updates. HIGGConnect hosts legislative briefs containing concise summaries of federal and state legislative activity, developed by independent attorneys. This is also a hub for resources to manage human resources responsibilities more efficiently. Your team gains access to a searchable library of benefits plan materials, including employee communications, benchmark statistics, and consumer health newsletters as well as an interactive community of industry peers from across the country for questions and answers.

Customized for LGBS, your compliance dashboard breaks down all responsibilities into clear, understandable topics summarized in a calendar format with timely automated email reminders on relevant topics selected at implementation

Beyond platform solutions, Higginbotham’s compliance team completes all necessary plan documents and notices for clients, along with annual Section 125 and 105(h) non-discrimination testing. Additionally, Higginbotham has an internal 5500 department that will complete annual welfare Form 5500 on your behalf.

Day Two Services® Reporting

The Financial Analytics team reviews and receives monthly medical and prescription claims reports with calculations of both variable and fixed plan costs. This is tracked in relation to your respective plan year’s funding level for valuable and actionable data.

Advance Plan for Health (APH) is our Data Warehouse tool, used to measure current performance against historical data. This information is then paired with Milliman to benchmark poorly managed, loosely managed, and well-managed companies. To assist with future planning, APH's predictive modeling tool forecasts future cost and claimant scenarios based on algorithms, ongoing conditions, gaps in care, and other claim data points.

We continuously monitor large claims and performance, tracking escalated claims concerns at an employee level if the data is provided focusing on the financial impacts of plan design changes, renewal projections, premium rate calculation, IBNRs, and group plan financial reporting.

With a background in group health ranging in size from 2 to 25,000 lives, our experts' extensive experience with carrier underwriting and brokerage consulting includes medical, life, dental, and disability lines of coverage.

Higginbotham’s data analytics tool aggregates medical and pharmacy claims to create models that guide us in formulating plans specific to cost efficiencies. When available, additional data sources such as leaves of absence, workers’ compensation, and health risk assessments are utilized. This robust package of reports turns your data into actionable information for funding strategy and plan management. On a monthly basis, a reporting package is shared.

Benefits Administration

Benefits Administration Open Enrollment Services

Open Enrollment is one of the most important—and often most stressful—times of the year for HR and benefits teams. Our goal is to make the process seamless, informative, and engaging for employees while minimizing your administrative workload.

Pre-Enrollment Support

Our teams partner to create a comprehensive communications strategy that educates, engages, and empowers employees to make informed benefits decisions. Pre-enrollment services include:

• Customized Communications Campaign: Development of a clear and engaging employee benefits communication plan, including a tailored enrollment guide.

• Creative Communication Materials: Production of enrollment kits and promotional tools such as announcement letters, benefits statements, branded materials, newsletters, payroll inserts, posters, and digital content.

• Leadership Alignment: Coordination of pre-enrollment meetings with management to review timelines, logistics, and strategies for a successful rollout.

Open Enrollment Meetings

During Open Enrollment, we focus on making benefits education accessible and interactive. Our team will:

• Host In-Person and Virtual Meetings: Deliver engaging enrollment sessions for employees, with carrier representatives participating when appropriate.

• Provide Trained Enrollers: Offer knowledgeable enrollers familiar with all core and voluntary benefits, as well as underwriting guidelines for each product.

• Ensure Consistent Messaging: Present benefits information in a clear, accurate, and easy-tounderstand manner to promote informed employee selections.

Online Enrollment Capabilities

A streamlined digital enrollment experience is provided through a user-friendly benefits administration platform. These systems integrate enrollment, communication, and data management into a single, efficient process. Key features include:

• User-Friendly Design: Stepby-step enrollment instructions ideal for first-time users.

• 24/7 Secure Access: Employees can review, select, and manage benefits anytime, online or via phone.

• Real-Time Data Management: Automated workflows and live updates that reduce data entry errors and improve accuracy.

• Comprehensive Integration: Seamless connectivity with payroll systems, HRIS platforms, and insurance carriers for smooth data transfer and reporting.

• Ongoing Access: Continuous year-round availability for life event changes, new hires, and benefits updates.

From strategic planning and employee education to post-enrollment reporting, Higginbotham provides a complete Open Enrollment solution designed to improve understanding, increase participation, and simplify administration. With our support, you can focus on your people while we handle the details that make Open Enrollment successful.

Benefits Administration

Benefits Enrollment & Administration

A robust, full-service benefits administration system is essential for effectively communicating benefits options to employees and simplifying the enrollment process. We utilize a secure web-based platform designed to streamline enrollment, administration, and communication for both employers and employees.

Simplified Administration & Enhanced Communication

Our system doesn’t just facilitate enrollment it enhances understanding and engagement. The BenAdmin system provides clear benefits communication and educational tools to help employees better understand their options, particularly those requiring payroll contributions.

Program administrators see a significant reduction in manual work, reduced data entry errors, and simplified premium and payroll deduction management. Plan administrators gain real-time visibility and control through an intuitive dashboard that features standard and customizable reporting, audit tracking, and electronic data transmission.

Employers can display detailed benefits information, including:

• Summary plan descriptions and plan documents

• Carrier brochures and rate sheets

• Enrollment instructions and benefits forms

• Customized educational content

• Automated verification and validation of enrollment data

• Premium and payroll deduction calculations

• Streamlined billing reconciliation and payment tracking

• Comprehensive reporting dashboards with on-demand analytics

Reporting & Analytics

Administrators can select from a wide range of pre-configured reports or create customized, ad-hoc reports using any data stored in the system. Common report types include:

• Employee and dependent census reports

• Carrier billing and consolidated billing summaries

• Eligibility and enrollment status reports

• Contribution and deduction detail reports

Reports can be generated and exported in PDF, CSV, HTML, or Excel formats for maximum flexibility. All data is easily integrated into HRIS or payroll systems and transmitted directly to insurance carriers, saving time and reducing administrative errors.

Benefits Administration

Benefits Enrollment & Administration

Employers Gain:

• An all-inclusive system to manage employee benefits and human resources information

• An effective way to manage paperless benefits enrollment and communication

• A dedicated website that houses benefits information, such as brochures, rate sheets, educational videos and administrative forms

• Customization options so that the benefits platform and website are branded to fit the company’s look and feel

• Reporting that allows custom or preconfigured report generation

• A reduction in HR questions and call volume

• Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) transfers to connected insurance carriers and payroll systems

Employees Gain:

• A web-based enrollment system that allows employees to enroll from their workplace or home

• Self-service enrollment capabilities for core and voluntary benefits

• Self-service capabilities to change demographic information such as address, family status, beneficiary, etc.

• One-click access to benefits brochures, highlight summaries, and educational videos from the benefits website or within the benefits administration system

• The ability to forgo hand-written enrollment forms.

• A real-time total of benefits elections and costs

• 24/7 access to benefits information from any device

Benefits Administration

Benefits Technology

Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)

EDI automates the secure transfer of enrollment and eligibility data between systems streamlining processes, reducing costs, and improving data accuracy.

Our Benefits Technology Team manages all EDI connections, working directly with your HR systems to collect demographic and plan data via secure file transfer. Post-enrollment, benefits election data can be exported directly to carriers in one of two ways:

Employer-run exports

• Administrators generate reports from the benefits administration system and securely transmit them to carriers.

• Automated EDI feeds. Our team establishes recurring electronic files in the format and frequency carriers require, fully automating the exchange process.

Payroll System Integration

Our system integrates seamlessly with many leading payroll and HRIS platforms, providing multiple options to fit your organization’s needs:

Standard File Format

A cost-effective solution included in the base package, allowing employers or brokers to run a payroll-ready report and import data directly into their payroll system prior to each pay cycle.

Custom File Format

For clients with more advanced or technical requirements, our EDI team can develop a custom-built payroll file that automates data transmission and reconciliation. These files are configured based on written specifications from the payroll vendor and may require additional programming. If documentation is unavailable, our team can assist in developing the necessary specifications for an additional fee.

Please refer to the Cost & Fees section for pricing details.

Data Security and Compliance

Data protection is a cornerstone of our technology and service approach. Our system utilizes secure file transmission protocols and encryption to ensure that all employee and dependent data remains protected at every stage of processing. The system provides:

• Secure data feeds without the need for additional software

• Downloadable enrollment and reporting data in multiple formats (PDF, CSV, HTML, Excel)

• Customizable reporting to match carrier and payroll requirements

• Audit trails and timestamped activity logs for full transparency

Confidentiality of employee data and protected health information (PHI) is taken extremely seriously. We continually enhance systems and processes to uphold the highest standards of data security, HIPAA compliance, and cybersecurity protection.

Benefits Administration Benefits Education

Annual enrollment can be confusing and overwhelming for employees. That is why Higginbotham goes beyond simply offering benefits solutions we focus on helping employees understand and appreciate the value of their entire benefits package.

Through a combination of technology, communication tools, and personalized education, we empower employees to make informed choices and take full advantage of the benefits available to them.

Building Awareness and Engagement

Today’s employees place greater importance than ever on their benefits. With rising health care costs and evolving plan options, clear communication is critical. Studies consistently show that when employees understand their benefits, their overall satisfaction, loyalty, and engagement increase significantly.

As part of our service model, Higginbotham provides custom communication and education materials designed to simplify complex information and highlight the real value of your benefits. These include a tailored annual enrollment guide, brochures and flyers.

Benefits Administration

Benefits Education

• Digital communications such as emails, videos, and posters

• Interactive decision-support tools and FAQs

• Carrier-specific educational resources

By ensuring every employee understands their options, we help employers drive participation, reduce confusion, and create a more positive benefits experience.

Customized Benefits Website

To complement our enrollment and communication support, Higginbotham offers a customized benefits website tailored to your organization. This digital hub serves as a one-stop resource for employees to access all benefits-related information anytime, anywhere.

Your custom site can include:

• Benefits brochures, plan summaries, and guides

• Educational videos and tutorials

• Provider search tools and carrier contact links

• Claim forms and policy documents

• Frequently asked questions and key enrollment dates

Accessible 24/7, this platform ensures your employees always have the information they need whether reviewing plans during Open Enrollment or referencing coverage details throughout the year. By combining our benefits administration platform with a dedicated benefits website, Higginbotham helps you deliver an informed, engaging, and consistent employee benefits experience year-round.

Educational Benefits Videos

These videos provide employees with accurate and consistent messages describing core or voluntary products.

Our in-house video team can also assist with customized benefits overview videos prior to enrollment.

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Scan the QR Code to watch sample animated videos.

Benefits Administration

Benefits Education

Interactive Benefits Guide

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During Open Enrollment, your employees receive a downloadable, interactive digital benefits guide with embedded videos that is custom-designed for LGBS as part of our communications services. The plan highlights every offering, creating a level of personalization and clarity not typically found in standard guides. Color prints are available at no cost for the first year of enrollment

Scan the QR Code to view a sample benefits guide.

Group Benefits Meetings

Conducting group meetings at every location during Open Enrollment will be helpful in the education campaign.

Bilingual Support and Resources

We understand the importance of effective communication with your employees. Licensed bilingual Enrollment Counselors are available to assist and guide your employees through the online enrollment system.

Employee Call Center

• Greet your employees' phone calls with customized responses and outlined escalation processes through trained benefits administrators and enrollment systems.

• Your employees will find bilingual support at the Call Center, available year-round, and in printed and web-based reading materials.

• Ramp up for high-volume short assignments such as Open Enrollment and for extended projects, such as claims consultation, throughout the policy year.

• Available Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. CT

• Provide customized voicemail after business hours with return service within 24 hours or the next business day.

Posters, Postcards, and Flyers

Educational materials such as posters, postcards, and flyers are available to inform and raise awareness on new benefits offerings. Together, these and other previously mentioned tools provide a truly comprehensive benefits communication platform.

Services Team

To work with Higginbotham is to reduce the amount of time and money you spend on administering group benefits by offering our single-source solution. Each client account is assigned a dedicated team who will coordinate services for seamless delivery and remain available for emergency service requests.

Account Manager

Manages the day-to-day questions and coordinates annual enrollment needs

Licensed Benefits Consultant

Manages RFP strategic planning, advises on insurance products and vendor selections, advocates for client needs, and facilitates renewals.

Dedicated Billing Rep

Reconciles monthly billing and remittance of carrier invoices to insurance companies.

Customer Service Rep

Works with the Account Manager to manage day-to-day questions, and assist employees with their benefits needs.

Benefits Technology Rep

Provides support for THEbenefitsHUB to ensure an optimal, user-friendly experience.

Services Team

Account Team Overview

To best serve our clients, Higginbotham’s account personnel work in teams consisting of multiple brokers, marketers, and customer service representatives grouped together by industry experience and geographic location. Each team works together consistently over consecutive policy terms. This approach allows us to become deeply familiar with your operations, fostering strong relationships over time. In the event of a team member's departure, this structure guarantees consistency and quality of service as team members are well-versed in accounts they manage collectively, easily stepping in for one another as needed.

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Tammy Boyett Account Manager

Kevin McCarthy Benefits Consultant

Tanya Avalos Customer Service Representative

Stacia Wirth TPAServices Vice President

Frank

Hejtmanek Medical Plan Consultant

Leslie Benavides Sales Support and Implementation Vice President

Brandi Ring TPA Services Client Services Manager

Glenn Turchi Public Sector Sales and Managing Director

Kim Newman Sales Support and Implementation Account Team Manager

Services Team

Account Team Bios

Kevin McCarthy Benefits Consultant

After teaching at Anderson High School in Austin, Kevin began a 27-year career working with employers and their employee benefits. He joined Higginbotham in 2022, functioning as our Lead Consultant for the Central Texas area. Kevin has also been a guest instructor and helped foster student learning at the undergraduate and graduate levels in consulting and innovation across multiple business subjects at both Baylor and Texas Tech. Kevin earned his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Texas and holds a General Lines, Life and Health license in addition to being a certified Life and Health Insurance Counselor. Kevin will be responsible for the overall implementation for LGBS, as well as ongoing services including but not limited to: product bids and carrier negotiations, coordinating and overseeing annual Open Enrollments, and overall group management and satisfaction.

Frank Hejtmanek

Public Sector Medical Plan Consultant

For the last decade, Frank has worked as a Consultant in the employee benefits space, with a focus on organizations with up to 10,000 employees. Since joining Higginbotham in 2021, he has served as the medical plan consultant for many of the firm's clients. Prior to joining the team, Frank worked as a medical executive at Aetna, a CVS Company, where he gained expertise in medical insurance underwriting and plan design strategy. He is passionate about helping organizations find the right solutions to meet their needs.

Services Team

Account Team Bios

Tammy Boyett Account Executive

Glenn Turchi Medical Plan Consultant

Leslie Benavides Account Manager

Kim Newman Benefits Analyst

Stacia Wirth Client Service Manager

Tanya Avalos Compliance Specialist

Brandi Ring Enrollment Specialist

Services Team

Day Two Services® Leadership Team

The Higginbotham Difference

Backing your day-to-day service team is our Day Two Services® leadership. These industry experts guide Higginbotham in innovative solutions, facilitating worldclass services for our clients. From Communications to Self-Funded Health Solutions, this leadership team will contribute to your benefits program and remains available to you throughout the entire duration of your policy term.

Judi Archer

Financial Services Communications and Business Development Vice President

Jenn Wordell-Todd COBRA Administration Director

Jeff Wood

Self-Funded Health Solutions Vice President

Francine Tebo Employee Engagement Director

Jill Sailors, PharmD HiggRx Senior Clinical Specialist

Katie Callender

Population Health Management Director

Samuel Ritter, MD Employee Benefits Medical Director

Your Dedicated Team

Ross Carmichael, J.D., CEBS Compliance and Day Two Services® Managing Director

Tammy Decker HR Services Managing Director

Maggie Hadden EB/HR Technology Senior Director

Stephanie Holbert TPA Services Director

Sam McMahan Financial Analytics Director

Costs & Fees

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Costs & Fees

Sample Implementation Schedule

120+ Days Before Plan Year Start

• Begin the benefits and renewal review process.

• Develop an Open Enrollment strategy and start preparing communication materials.

90+ Days Before Plan Year Start

• Issue the 30-day termination notice to the current broker to ensure compliance with the notice period.

60+ Days Before Plan Year Start

• Confirm the final contribution structure and approve Open Enrollment materials. This is also the time to finalize the selection of any new vendors or carriers.

30+ Days Before Plan Year Start

• Conduct employee benefits meetings to educate employees about their options. This is the start of the Open Enrollment period.

4 Weeks Before Plan Year Start

• Confirm Open Enrollment elections and ensure carriers process enrollment data. Ensure that renewal ID cards are issued and in hand.

Plan Year Start

• All policies should be active, and employees should have their ID cards and be aware of their benefits.

This structured timeline ensures continuous communication, accurate reporting, and proactive planning throughout the year.

Questionnaire and Attachments

What Differentiates Higginbotham

We truly believe our key differentiators compared to other firms center on our best-in-class service, local touch, and benefits technology and administration.

Being more than a broker involves a true partner with the scale, expertise, and hands-on service needed to support the scope and size of your organization. Higginbotham offers a single-source solution for employee benefits and HR services across a wide range of topics to assist clients like LGBS. In addition to traditional health insurance consulting and benefits plan design services, we extend providing you with our outstanding Day Two Services® , including ACA Compliance, workers’ compensation, Excess Liability, P&C, Stop-Loss, Section 125, HSA/HRA, FSA, and COBRA administration, as well as common remitter billing and reconciliation services.

Deep Employee Benefits E xperience:

Higginbotham is the leading brokerage agency in the State of Texas. Our HPS division currently is serving more than 600 group clients, providing us direct insight into funding cycles, governance, and procurement expectations.

Market Leverage + Local Service: As the largest independent brokerage based in Texas, our scale ensures preferred carrier access, superior contract terms, and proactive underwriting support providing you with face-to-face service from local advisors who know your community.

Supplemental Benefits: Consulting services for all benefits that are both core (medical/dental) and a full range of ancillary benefits such as vision, medical supplement, cancer, accident, term and permanent life, critical illness, MEC plans, and more.

Day Two Services® Advantage: Your support goes well beyond placement. You will receive quarterly strategy reviews, claims oversight, compliance audits, bilingual employee communications, and real-time performance dashboards delivered by in-house experts who function as an extension of your HR team.

What Differentiates Higginbotham

Medical Consulting: Comprehensive range of medical insurance consulting services, including plan design and selection, benchmarking, claims analysis, cost containment strategies, employee communication, and education.

Proven Self-Funded Plan Expertise: From strategic funding projections to stop-loss analysis and ongoing performance reporting, our specialists have decades of experience managing cost-efficient, compliant selffunded programs across medical, pharmacy, and dental.

Benefits Technology: Our BenAdmin system allows for more control and support for our clients; the platform is owned and operated by Higginbotham and maintained internally, giving us exceptional customization latitude.

Tools to Lighten Your Workload: From Rx cost containment to ACA/RXDC/PCORI filing support to bid/RFP management for upcoming renewals, we offer tools and in-house services that reduce burden on your staff while delivering transparency and measurable outcomes.

Compliance You Can Count On: Exceptional guidance in HIPAA, ERISA, COBRA, and ACA support, paired with real-time legislative updates and hands-on guidance so LGBS remains ahead of ever-changing mandates.

Benefits Administration: Real-time support through billing with reconciliation, online enrollment, and benefits websites With a single call, your employees can get assistance from our in-house call center. We also own an in-house production studio to create custom videos for employees during enrollment and the benefits administration process.