Archived Insight | November 3, 2008

Study of Retiree Health VEBAs

Recent agreements between several automobile manufacturers and the UAW to establish and manage Voluntary Employees’ Beneficiary Associations (VEBAs) to fund retiree health care have focused attention on VEBAs.

In response, Segal conducted a study of 25 stand-alone retiree health VEBAs, which represent a significant share of all stand-alone retiree health VEBAs at the time the study was conducted in late 2007.

Retiree Health VEBAs Study Download Now

Key findings

The following are among the key findings of the study:

  • Historically, bankruptcy has been the most common reason for the formation of retiree health VEBAs, although collective bargaining is becoming a more prominent trigger.
  • Although many retiree health VEBAs are new, some have been in existence for decades.
  • Retiree health VEBAs are not only for very large retiree populations.
  • The number of participants covered by a retiree health VEBA may grow by design.
  • Retiree health VEBA funding is not limited to upfront company contributions. Many VEBAs in the study have ongoing funding streams.
  • VEBAs are not limited to traditional retiree major medical/hospitalization and prescription drug coverage. Many VEBAs in the study offer other types of benefits in addition to or instead of that coverage, including Part B premium reimbursement, life insurance or health reimbursement accounts.

See more insights

Senior Woman Uses A Laptop At Home

Meeting the Moment: Helping People Navigate Change at Open Enrollment

Discover practical open enrollment communication strategies that help employees understand options, make informed decisions and take action.
Female Pharmacist Explaining A Medication And Prescribing Medication To A Customer In The Pharmacy

Medicare Part D Demonstration Program Will End on 12/31/26

Learn what the early end of the Medicare Part D Demonstration program means for premiums and retiree health plans.
Businesswoman Looking At Laptop In The Office

IDR Operations Update: A New Gateway and Guidance on Codes

Get compliance insights on the new IDR Gateway, RARC code requirements and next steps for group health plan sponsors.

This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax or investment advice. You are encouraged to discuss the issues raised here with your legal, tax and other advisors before determining how the issues apply to your specific situations.