DOL Releases Updated CHIP Model Notice for Employers

The U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) recently released an updated model notice for employers to use in providing information on premium assistance eligibility under Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The July 31, 2025, update includes current state-specific contact information and other details relevant to these programs. The updated notice is available in both English and Spanish.

Employers in Arkansas and other states offering premium assistance are required to distribute the CHIP notice to all eligible employees annually prior to the beginning of the plan year. It may be included with Summary Plan Description (SPD) or open enrollment materials, so long as the materials are provided to all employees and in compliance with the DOL’s document distribution rules. The notice must be separate from other plan materials so that it is easily distinguishable, and the importance of it is clear.

Reminder: Summary Annual Reports Due Soon for Calendar Year Plans

Group health plans with 100 or more participants at the start of the plan year must provide a Summary Annual Report (SAR) to each participant. The SAR summarizes information from Form 5500, which is due by July 31 for calendar year plans.

The SAR must be distributed within nine months after the end of the plan year. For calendar year plans that filed Form 5500 for the 2024 plan year by July 31, 2025, the SAR must be furnished by September 30, 2025.

Plans that filed for a Form 5500 extension have additional time. If an extension was filed in 2025 for the 2024 plan year, the SAR deadline is December 15, 2025.

September Is Suicide Prevention Month

Suicide Prevention Month is observed in September to raise awareness about suicide, reduce the stigma around mental health, and provide resources for those who are struggling or know someone in crisis.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, confidential support is available 24/7 through the following services:

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988, or chat online at 988lifeline.org.

Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741.

The Trevor Project: Call 1-866-488-7386 for crisis intervention for LGBTQ+ youth. 

For QualChoice members, Mental Health and Substance Abuse services are also available by phone or video. QualChoice Telehealth gives you access to in-network healthcare providers 24 hours a day. Use it right when you need it — or schedule an appointment ahead of time.

Learn more about QualChoice Telehealth.

*Providers should follow state and federal guidelines regarding performance of telehealth services including permitted modalities.