Health and Welfare Benefit Checklist for Mergers and Acquisitions

This checklist serves as a guide for employers to address health and welfare benefit considerations during mergers and acquisitions. It emphasizes the importance of due diligence in evaluating health and welfare benefits, which are often overlooked compared to retirement plans. The document outlines various scenarios such as asset purchases and stock purchases, detailing how to manage employee benefits in these contexts. It discusses the implications of service provider and insurance contracts, including necessary reviews to avoid unexpected issues. The checklist also covers plan termination procedures, ensuring compliance with ERISA and other regulations. Additional considerations include handling COBRA coverage, understanding the ACA employer mandate, and the reporting requirements for applicable large employers. The document stresses the need for qualified employee benefits specialists to navigate these complexities effectively, ensuring that all aspects of health and welfare benefits are properly managed throughout the transaction process.