Complete Employer Guide
Stop-Loss Insurance
Stop-loss insurance is the safety net that makes self-funding viable. Without it, a single catastrophic claim could devastate your plan. With the right structure, you can take on appropriate risk while protecting your organization from the unexpected. This hub covers everything — from the basics to advanced contract negotiation.
Everything in this guide
From stop-loss basics to contract negotiation and carrier selection.
Specific vs. aggregate coverage, attachment points, and the mechanics of stop-loss protection.
The difference between individual claim protection and total plan protection.
What lasers are, how carriers use them, and how to negotiate laser limits.
Run-in vs. run-out, advance funding, no-new-laser provisions, and other key terms.
How to evaluate stop-loss carriers on financial strength, claims service, and contract terms.
How to determine the right specific deductible for your group size and risk tolerance.
How to manage stop-loss renewals, negotiate rate increases, and avoid laser surprises.
Step-by-step guide to sizing, procuring, and managing stop-loss insurance.
Answers to the most common employer questions about stop-loss insurance.
How we evaluate stop-loss carriers, source rate data, analyze contract terms, and apply AI analysis — with full transparency on methods and limitations.
Size your stop-loss deductible
Enter your employee count and claims data to get a recommended specific deductible range and aggregate attachment point.
Stop-loss restructure cut premium 19% and eliminated laser exposure on two chronic claimants
A 310-employee Midwest manufacturer faced a 24% renewal increase and lasers on two high-cost members. A competitive RFP across 8 carriers found a better contract — lower premium, lower specific deductible, and no lasers.
Read the case study