News & Resources

Explore our curated collection of news and resources to stay up-to-date with the ever-evolving world of insurance.

Featured News

St. Patrick’s Day Dip Party at Maddock & Associates

The Maddock & Associates team took a break to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a festive dip potluck. Great food, a little green, and a chance to connect with coworkers made for a fun office tradition. ☘️

Washington Saves Act: What Washington Employers Need to Know

Washington State has enacted the Washington Saves Act, a new retirement savings program that will require many employers to either offer a qualifying retirement plan or enroll employees in the state-sponsored option. Learn what this means for your business and join our upcoming educational webinar.

Final Call: Medicare Enrollment Windows Close March 31

March 31 is the final day for Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment and the General Enrollment Period. If you need to switch plans or enroll in Medicare, now is the time to review your options and take action.

Meet Your Benefits Support Team at Maddock & Associates

Every employer group has a dedicated Maddock team. Learn who supports you, what we help with, and how to contact us for claims, enrollments, and Medicare or Individual needs.

Reduce Benefits Noise with a Simple Claims Support Process

A practical employer-facing guide to reducing claim-related confusion, improving employee trust, and creating a simple “when something looks off” process for your team.

7 Ways to Prevent Medical Claim Problems Before They Start

A practical checklist for employees: reduce billing surprises, avoid common claim mistakes, and know what to gather if a claim needs review.

Bill vs. EOB vs. Receipt: The 3 Documents That Explain Most Medical Claim Questions

Bill, EOB, and receipt are not the same thing. This quick guide explains what each document means, when you will get it, and how to use all three to make sense of a medical claim.

Maddock Minute: How To File A Medical Claim

Most claims are filed by your provider, but sometimes you need to submit one yourself. This Maddock Minute explains when, how, deadlines, and next steps if denied.

Turning 65 in Washington State: Your Medicare Enrollment Timeline (and How to Avoid Gaps)

Most people get a 7-month Medicare Initial Enrollment Period around their 65th birthday, but employer coverage can change everything. Here’s the Washington State guide to timing it right.

Medicare Guidance in Washington State: Supporting Employees Transitioning from Group Coverage

Navigating Medicare in Washington State can be complex. Maddock & Associates provides personalized Medicare and Individual insurance guidance through dedicated specialists, helping employees and referrals transition confidently from employer-sponsored coverage.

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment 2026: Dates, Rules, and How to Change Plans (WA)

Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment runs Jan 1–Mar 31. Learn who qualifies, what changes you can make, and key reminders for Washington residents.

Pi Day and Employee Benefits: A Slice of Support for Your Team

A Pi Day themed benefits post that reframes employee benefits as a “Slice of Support” and highlights five resources employees often forget to use.

Sleep and Benefits: What Your Health Plan May Offer to Support Better Rest

A practical World Sleep Day guide for employers and employees: simple sleep-friendly habits, and the benefits resources that may help support better rest.

Spotlight on a Maddock Star: Ananda

Ananda was recognized with this year’s GOAT Award for her incredible ability to keep meetings focused, collaborative, and productive. As our Meeting MVP, she helps turn conversations into action and brings clarity, calm, and teamwork to everything she does.

Have You Outgrown Your PEO? How to Reduce Costs, Improve Benefits, and Regain Control.

Professional Employer Organizations simplify HR and benefits early on, but as businesses grow, the bundled model may become expensive or restrictive. Here’s how to evaluate whether your PEO still fits your organization and what alternatives exist.

Thinking About Leaving Your PEO? A Practical Guide to Lower Costs, Better Benefits, and Greater Control.

Many employers assume leaving a PEO will be complex or risky. In reality, a structured evaluation process can reveal opportunities for lower costs, stronger benefits, and more strategic control.

Stay in Your PEO and Still Reduce Costs? How Carving Out Medical Benefits Can Improve Coverage.

Many employers assume they must leave their PEO entirely to improve benefits or reduce costs. In reality, some organizations can carve out medical coverage and access Association Health Plans with better pricing and broader networks.

Have You Outgrown Your PEO? How to Know When It’s Time to Transition.

Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs) offer convenience, especially for growing businesses. But as companies mature, bundled pricing and limited flexibility may no longer support long-term goals. Here’s how to evaluate whether your PEO still fits your organization.

Why Independent Benefits Consulting Still Matters for Employers

Explore the advantages of working with an independent benefits consultant and how personalized strategies help employers succeed.

How Broker Acquisitions Can Change Your Employee Benefits Strategy

Discover how broker acquisitions can affect benefits strategy, customization, and long-term consulting support for employers.

Has Your Benefits Broker Been Acquired? What Employers Should Know

Learn what typically changes when a benefits broker is acquired and what employers should watch for to protect their benefits strategy.

What Happens When Your Benefits Broker Gets Acquired?

A straightforward guide for employers navigating benefits broker acquisitions. Learn what typically changes after consolidation, how it can impact your employee benefits strategy, and why independent consulting may offer a more personalized approach.

Understanding the Summary of Benefits and Coverage (SBC): What Employers Need to Know

The Summary of Benefits and Coverage (SBC) plays a critical role in helping employees understand their health plans. Here’s what employers should know to stay compliant and keep communication clear.

EBSA Enforcement Updates: What Employers Should Watch in the Year Ahead

The Department of Labor has updated its enforcement priorities for employee benefit plans. Here’s what employers should know and how these changes may influence compliance and plan administration.

New IRS Guidance on HSAs: What Employers Should Know Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act

The IRS has released new guidance affecting Health Savings Accounts under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Here’s what employers should understand and how these changes may impact your benefits strategy.

Voluntary Benefits Are Changing: What Employers Should Know Now

Recent lawsuits are raising new questions about voluntary benefits and employer responsibility. Here’s what the changes mean and how employers can protect their strategy moving forward.

Spotlight on a Maddock Star: Janette

Meet Janette, our reigning Maddy Award Winner and “Countess of COBRA,” whose calm expertise, kindness, and sense of humor help keep Maddock & Associates clients and coworkers supported every day.

A Bright Surprise in the Maddock & Associates Office

Maddock & Associates team received a surprise bouquet of flowers to brighten the workday, and we’re grateful for the thoughtful gesture.

November 2025 Compliance Webinar Recording

Webinar replay covering key immigration compliance issues for employers, featuring Maynard Nexsen PC attorneys and recent Trump Administration developments.

October 2025 Compliance Webinar Recording

Maynard Nexsen benefits attorneys walk through an ERISA 101 “ERISA Playbook” and practical compliance tips for EAPs, telemedicine, wellness, and disease-management programs—hosted via TRUE Network Advisors and shared by Maddock & Associates.

Maddock & Associates Awarded 2025 Silver Award for Best Insurance Agency in Pierce County by The News Tribune

We’re honored to be named the 2025 Silver Award winner for Best Insurance Agency in Pierce County! 🧡 Thank you to our incredible clients, partners, and community for your trust and support — this recognition is a reflection of the relationships we’ve built together.

September 2025 Compliance Webinar Recording

Join the TRUE Network of Advisors for annual HIPAA Privacy & Security Training led by Maynard Nexsen benefits attorneys. Gain a clear overview of Privacy and Security Rules for employer health plans, PHI handling, and core compliance duties.

A Night at the Ballpark with Regence

Big thanks to Regence BlueShield for hosting members of the Maddock & Associates team at the Tacoma Rainiers game for a fun night of hometown baseball and a photo op with Rhubarb.

TRUE | Webinar Registration - HIPAA Privacy and Security Training

Join TRUE Network of Advisors and Maynard Nexsen attorneys for this month’s compliance webinar covering HIPAA Privacy and Security Rules. Designed to meet the minimum HIPAA training requirements for employer-sponsored health plans.

Staying Healthy During Back-to-School Season

Simple, everyday habits like better sleep, nutrition, handwashing, activity, and checkups—can help families stay healthy and energized during the back-to-school season.

Understanding Nondiscrimination Rules for Employer-Sponsored Health and Welfare Plans

A clear overview of federal nondiscrimination rules affecting employer-sponsored health and welfare plans, including key laws and tax code requirements employers need to know for compliance.

Updated FAQs Clarify No Surprises Act & ACA Cost-Sharing Rules

Federal agencies released new FAQs updating guidance on the No Surprises Act and ACA cost-sharing rules, clarifying protections against unexpected out-of-network medical bills and outlining plan compliance requirements.

Supreme Court Rules ADA Doesn’t Cover Retirees

The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that the ADA does not apply to retirees, giving employers more flexibility in retiree benefit design, but other laws like ERISA still apply.

Court Ruling on Gender-Affirming Surgery Coverage

A recent court ruling finds that excluding gender-affirming surgery from health plans may violate Title VII, signaling potential legal risks for employers.

216 Years of Experience You Can Count On: The Team Behind Maddock & Associates

216 Years of Employee Benefits Expertise | Maddock & Associates

August 2025 Compliance Webinar Recording

Join TRUE with Matt Stiles and Seth Capper as they unpack the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, covering key payroll, tax, and benefits changes impacting employers in 2025.

Why We’re Proud to Be a Member of the FME Chamber

Maddock & Associates shares why being part of the Fife Milton Edgewood Chamber of Commerce is meaningful to their team and mission.

Celebrating National Night Out with Our FME Community

Join Maddock & Associates in celebrating National Night Out on August 5th! As proud members of the FME Chamber, we're excited to support local events in Fife, Milton, and Edgewood that bring neighbors and first responders together to build safer, stronger communities.

Take a Deep Breath: National Relaxation Day Is August 15

Celebrate National Relaxation Day on August 15 with Maddock & Associates! Discover easy, practical ways to slow down, reduce stress, and support well-being at work and at home.

Get Moving Together: National Exercise With Your Child Week is August 4–10!

Celebrate National Exercise With Your Child Week (August 4–10) with fun, easy ways to get moving as a family! Maddock & Associates shares simple ideas to support wellness and connection at home.

Maddock & Associates Joins 2025 Technical Cable Charity Golf Tournament

Maddock & Associates joined the 2025 Technical Cable Charity Golf Tournament for a day of fun, connection, and community support — with thanks to Regence for sponsoring the event.

Up, Up, and Away with Kaiser Permanente at iFly!

In April, Maddock & Associates joined Kaiser Permanente at iFly Seattle for an exciting day of indoor skydiving, connection, and fun.

July 2025 Compliance Webinar Recording

In this month’s TRUE Network webinar, the benefits attorneys of Maynard Nexsen will discuss fiduciary responsibilities, considerations, and best practices for ERISA plan sponsors, including updates on recent ERISA fiduciary litigation for health and welfare plans.

TRUE | Webinar Registration - Understanding the Employment and Benefits Law Changes of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act

Understanding the Employment and Benefits Law Changes of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act

Thank You for Your Support in the 2025 Best of Pierce County Awards

A heartfelt thank-you to everyone who voted, shared, or supported us during the 2025 Best of Pierce County Awards. We’re honored to be part of this incredible community.

Notice: Temporary Phone System Issues

We're currently experiencing phone system issues. Please contact us by email at enrollments@maddockinsurance.com or our online contact form while we work on a fix. Thank you for your patience!

It's Independence Day!

Join Maddock & Associates as we celebrate the 4th of July and reflect on the values of freedom, unity, and community that define this important day.

TRUE | Webinar Registration - Fiduciary Responsibilities for ERISA Plan Sponsors

In this month’s TRUE Network webinar, the benefits attorneys of Maynard Nexsen will discuss fiduciary responsibilities, considerations, and best practices for ERISA plan sponsors, including updates on recent ERISA fiduciary litigation for health and welfare plans. 

Maddock & Associates Nominated for Best Insurance Agency in Pierce County - Let’s Make It Official!

We’re honored to be nominated for Best Insurance Agency in Pierce County! Cast your vote, share the love, and help Maddock & Associates take the top spot.

June 2025 Compliance Webinar Recording

In this month’s TRUE Network of Advisors compliance webinar, benefits attorneys from Maynard Nexsen cover key ACA Employer Mandate rules, IRS enforcement procedures, and practical tips for responding to compliance inquiries or penalty assessments.

US FDA clears use of first over-the-counter continuous glucose monitor

Regence BlueShield paid $1.9 billion for member care in 2023

Millennials and Gen Z are less likely to seek primary and preventative care

Putting off behavioral healthcare can cost both workers and employers, says Marsh McLennan Agency’s chief medical officer.

Managing prescription drug costs

Feeling the squeeze of inflation? Copay assistance programs may be able to help cut prescription drug costs.

ACA Reporting Webinar recording now available!

What is Wegovy worth to your employer? Companies wrestle with obesity drugs' costs, long-term value.

'Insatiable demand' for obesity drugs sets up conflict between workers and employers

Providence and Regence BlueCross seal deal on insurance partnership

Providence Health & Services and Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon have finalized a contract that will keep Providence in network for patients with Regence insurance.

US FDA to allow Florida to import cheaper drugs from Canada

Florida on Friday won authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to directly import prescription drugs from Canada, the first state to get such approval for a strategy that could lower prices for medicines.

Even $1 premium discourages some low-income individuals from coverage: study

Even charging a dollar premium for healthcare benefits can discourage some low-income individuals from getting coverage, but price isn’t the only factor involved, according to a study in Health Affairs.

Walgreens ready to embrace 'Cost Plus' drug model, CEO says

Walgreens' new CEO Tim Wentworth says the pressure is on to develop new drug pricing models following a recent shift in the retail pharmacy market "to give patients the Cost Plus experience."

Free at-home testing and treatments now available for COVID and flu through federal program

The Home Test to Treat program is from the National Institutes of Health.

Roxanne Carlson Receives 2022 Blue Ribbon Agent Award

Roxanne Carlson Receives 2022 Blue Ribbon Agent Award In Recognition of Outstanding Medicare Sales Performance and Partnership

Temporary Personal Insurance: Is It Still Available?

Temporary personal insurance, once a practical solution for individuals in need of short-term coverage during transitional phases, has been a reliable safety net for Washington residents.

Understanding Medicare: Will you get penalized for not immediately enrolling if you are still working?

Medicare, the federal health insurance program primarily aimed at serving seniors aged 65 and older, is a critical safety net for healthcare coverage in the United States.

Webinars

Unlock Expertise
with Featured
Insurance Webinars

Dive into the world of insurance through our featured webinars, hosted by the industry experts at Maddock & Associates. Gain valuable insights, stay informed about the latest trends, and expand your knowledge on a range of insurance topics.

Whether you’re an employer, employee, or insurance professional, our webinars provide a platform to deepen your understanding and make informed decisions. Join us and elevate your insurance expertise today.

Stay connected and follow us

Stay connected and be the first to know about the latest insurance updates, industry insights, and valuable resources by following Maddock & Associates on social media. Join our community of insurance enthusiasts, stay informed, and engage with us for a deeper understanding of insurance solutions.

What We do

Empowering Businesses with Comprehensive Insurance Solutions