Search Results

Whether you engage in residential, commercial, or municipal projects, we provide customized coverage and service solutions designed to address your specific needs. Surety Bonds Enjoy Greater Flexibility CONNECT WITH OUR TEAM The Cottingham & Butler Surety team specializes in delivering surety bond solutions that provide unparalleled adaptability, giving you the freedom and confidence to pursue your goals with ease. Our Approach With an aim to structure a program that will provide a contractor with the flexibility to capitalize on strategic opportunities, we focus on consultancy to help our clients understand how best to position themselves for success. Program Design We analyze and improve surety programs to get you the best deal with flexible terms, so you can pursue the projects you want without overspending. Our experienced team closely evaluates your requirements, identifying areas for cost reduction and improved efficiency, while ensuring you have the necessary capacity to undertake projects of varying scales. Market Relationships We partner with a number of sureties on a regional and national level. We advocate for our clients and obtain results by leveraging our strong and deep relationships. Our extensive network allows you to connect with the right surety providers, ensuring you get the most favorable terms and conditions. Benchmarking & Services Our proprietary reports go well beyond financial performance. Through our unique process, we provide clients with insight that helps them outshine the competition. Our benchmarking services are designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of your standing in the industry. Subcontractor Default Insurance We help our clients limit the risk of subcontractor default through a comprehensive approach that includes a “constant qualification” (assessment and implementation), selection process, real time contractor qualification and verification, and contractual risk transfer. Our tailored approach to subcontractor risk management ensures that your projects remain on track and that potential disruptions are mitigated. Surety Bond Types Explore the different types of surety bonds and begin your application through the selections below. Contractor Pre-Qualification > Bid Bond Application > BMC84 > Experience the Power of Surety Bonds Bank-Guaranteed Security Enjoy the peace of mind, knowing your financial interests are backed by a reliable institution. Surety Bonds Insights Contract Bonds | A Bumpy Path to Success Contract bonds play a crucial role in the construction industry, providing financial guarantees and risk mitigation for various projects. Articles Strategies to Strengthen Bonding Capacity and Navigate Our Evolving Construction Economy In unpredictable economic times, maintaining and increasing bonding capacity becomes crucial for contractors. Articles The Creeping Retainage Vine Discover how retainage impacts cash flow in the construction industry amidst labor shortages and cost escalations. Articles VIEW MORE Surety Bonds Contact Questions? Talk to our Surety specialist!

BenefitWave is a revolutionary departure from conventional survey methods, utilizing cutting-edge technology and decades of consulting expertise to help employers better understand and leverage their employees' benefit preferences. Employers often assume they understand what employees want, but do they truly grasp how satisfied employees are with their benefits packages? CONNECT WITH OUR TEAM Employee satisfaction with benefits is crucial to recruit and retain top talent. However, typical surveys lack depth and offer generic results, making it challenging for employers to make strategic decisions. BenefitWave transforms traditional feedback methods. Leveraging cutting-edge technology and drawing on decades of consulting expertise, we help employers better understand employees' benefit preferences to maximize their benefits program. Research indicates that most job seekers prioritize benefits over salary, with 80% being willing to accept lower pay for better benefits. REQUEST A DEMO WITH OUR TEAM! BenefitWave Discovers Insights on What Employees Value Most By gaining a better understanding of employee preferences with Benefitwave, a Midwest-based engineering firm with over 400 employees received valuable insights on where to invest and what changes to implement in their benefits packages for 2025. READ THE FULL CASE STUDY The BenefitWave Advantage: Expert Guidance Expert benefits consultants align employee needs with cost-effective benefit value. Trade-Off Preferences Unravel what truly matters to your employees by presenting benefit trade-offs. Data-Driven Design Identify key value-driving decisions to design tailored benefit programs that attract and retain top talent. Why Employee Benefits Analysis Matters Customized Benefits Creation : Transform raw employee feedback into precisely tailored benefit packages that resonate with individual needs. Deeper Understanding : Dive into employee data and gain insights beyond surface preferences, crafting benefits that elevate satisfaction effectively. Strategic Budgeting : Discover where additional budget allocation generates maximum impact, ensuring value-driven benefit strategies. SCHEDULE A TIME WITH OUR TEAM! Design and deliver a total rewards program that turns employee feedback into the perfect benefits package. Uncover priorities for a happier, more engaged workforce. “What matters most to your employees: Paid Time Off or Workplace Flexibility?” Discover insights to tailor your benefits effectively. "In a trade-off between higher medical deductibles or increased premiums, which do your employees prefer and by how much?” Understand preferences to enhance employee satisfaction. "What holds greater value for your team: 401k Match or Tuition Reimbursement?” Gain insights to optimize your benefits program and attract & retain top talent. "If given additional budget for benefits, where would it create the most value?” REQUEST A DEMO WITH OUR TEAM! Employee Benefits Insight & Impact Deadline for Submitting Gag Clause Attestation Is Dec. 31, 2025 Learn about federal gag clause prohibition requirements and annual attestation deadlines for group health plans. Essential compliance guidance for employers with fully insured and self-insured plans. Articles IRS Releases Health FSA Limits for 2026 The IRS increased the 2026 health FSA contribution limit to $3,400 (up from $3,300) and the carryover limit to $680. Learn what employers need to know about Rev. Proc. 2025-32 compliance and employee contributions. Articles $323K Premium Reduction Achieved Chicago manufacturer slashes 52% renewal increase to just 4.7%, avoiding $323K in premiums and removing $1.5M+ in claims through strategic benefit solutions. Case Studies VIEW MORE BenefitWave Start today by contacting a Benefits Consultant to learn more.

Are you a current Cottingham & Butler client? Access all relevant tools, portals, and directories from one central hub. Client Login IRIS Risk Management Center CSR24 Policy Passport C&B Connect Portal ProClaim SiscoConnect Having trouble logging in? We can help!

Manufacturing Managing a "Hard" Insurance Market Up Published on Written by: Page View May 16, 2023 John Link In the 1996 movie classic, “Twister,” Dusty runs out of the RV at the drive-in movie theater and yells to Bill, “It’s coming! It’s coming straight for us!” and Bill replies with an apprehensive and fearful look at the ominous, night sky, “It’s already here.” That scene reminds me of the property insurance world and the hard market. The “hard market” isn’t coming—it’s already here! For those of you new to this terminology, a “hard” insurance market represents a period of rising rates, less capacity, and unfavorable terms mandated by insurance companies to the insurance buyer. Our team at Cottingham & Butler has been sounding the bell about the hard market, and dealing with a challenging property renewal is less about “if” than “when.” Ten years ago, a dozen admitted insurance carriers would insure property insurance for foundries—today there are less than five. This article is designed around what you can do to be prepared to manage upcoming insurance renewals. Let’s start with a brief overview of the current insurance market. Property insurance is no longer (and hasn’t been for a while) a regional issue. In today’s climate, what happens in Florida or California, affects us in the Midwest and vice versa. We’ve dealt with wildfires, windstorms, snowstorms, hurricanes, and flooding. These natural catastrophes have caused many billions of dollars in claims costs to insurers. In 2022, natural disaster damages were over $115 billion and that follows $121 billion in 2021. Along with those disasters, the industry still manages the additional losses from less catastrophic but just as costly claims ranging from fires and explosions to broken water pipes. View the column in Modern Casting's digital edition. In response, insurance carriers and their insurance providers (known as reinsurance carriers) are increasing their rates, diminishing their appetite for risk, offering less favorable terms, and heightening underwriting scrutiny. In December 2022, Ernst & Young Global predicted reinsurance rates to rise 50% during the January 2023 renewals, setting the stage for further increases throughout 2023. Another factor impacting insurance costs is the valuation of assets and inflation. The material costs of construction (e.g., concrete, drywall, pvc pipes, etc.) are up as much as 53% year-over-year. Lumber cost is the one category that saw a reduction during 2022. With that in consideration, many property valuations on insurance schedules are likely undervalued versus their true cost. The cost to rebuild your facility is significantly higher than it was three or four years ago. When was the last time you had a formal appraisal of the cost to replace your building? Likely you haven’t and therefore insurance carriers are scrutinizing the cost per square foot much closer. One final factor for the foundry industry is reputation. Google search “foundry fires” and “foundry accidents” and look at just the first results page. This is what underwriters and insurance company analysts see and use to formulate their opinions about foundries. Despite the fact that every day, 1,750 foundries are operating safely, historical events influence and cast doubt on the viability of a foundry as a good underwriting risk. These factors create the perfect storm for insurance companies to dictate purchasing terms in what we collectively call a “hard” market. In some cases, insurance companies are simply walking away from insuring what they consider “riskier” businesses. Metalcasting is one category that is considered high risk and unfavorable for underwriting. From the graph in Figure 1, the property market is seeing continued upward pressure for the last six years with a substantial spike during the latter part of 2022. The first quarter of 2023 rate increases so far have continued their upward trend. With that said, you can survive the hard market. It takes additional work and effort on your part and the part of your insurance broker, however. Here are some strategies on what we can collectively do to get through these challenging conditions:   1. Strategize with your broker and do it early! The standard approach taken by insurance brokers for the renewal process is to make submissions 90 days in advance of the expiration date with the likelihood of having the renewal finalized two weeks before your policies expire. That process works in a soft market but in the market we are in today, that process will fail. Instead, have your planning meeting five months in advance of the expiration date, update all underwriting materials, and make sure submissions go out early. Every insurance company is going to want loss control, every insurance company is going to question the values, and every insurance company is going to have to go to their reinsurance markets to build limits for your business. This takes time so use it to your advantage.   2. Decide on your risk tolerance. What deductibles can you live with? Does every structure need to be insured? Does the program need to be on replacement cost or would actual cash value suffice? These are questions many businesses are considering in order to lower their insurance premiums.  3. Update your values. When was the last time you hired an appraisal company to provide a true estimate on the replacement cost value of your buildings and equipment? When I ask that question, the answer is typically “It’s been years” or “Never.” Insurance companies are going to demand the values of your buildings be based on either a third-party valuation or another metric for you to justify why your 50,000-sq.-ft. facility is insured for $2.5 million when their data suggests it should be valued at $6 million. Higher values drive more premium, which insurance companies want; therefore, take control and tell them what your values are. If you don’t, they will dictate those terms to you, which could cost you tens of thousands of dollars.   4. Satisfy the loss control recommendations. This may be the most critical area for your team to review and the one area you can directly control. Remember when the loss control person from the insurance company visited your facility and then provided you a list of “recommendations” for improvements? You likely “filed” this and moved on with your day. No more! If those recommendations (let’s call them mandates) are not addressed or completed to the insurer’s satisfaction, there is a high likelihood that insurance carrier will non-renew your insurance policies.Key areas to review are: Fire protection: We all know we can’t have sprinkler systems over the pour floor, but insurance carriers will expect sprinkler systems everywhere else, especially your pattern and mold shops and storage areas. Hot work permit systems: I’ve seen this on almost every inspection report and the requirement to have a hot work scope of work and procedures written out in detail. Dust collection: More and more carriers will want to see updated dust collections systems with spark detection and fire suppression as part of the system. Flammables: Everything from 275-gallon solvent totes to 1 gallon paint cans need to be stored properly and away from heat and flame. I had one insurance carrier dictate they would only offer a quote if the foundry would build a separate building with sprinklers for the foundry to store all their placard flammable materials.   5. Be thorough in your description of operations. Do your insurance underwriters actually know who you are and what you do and what makes your business different from all the other metalcasters they get submissions on? Having a narrative or a “description of operations” on your business is an often overlooked part of the insurance marketing process, but if you don’t have one, then you are relying on an application and the Google search the underwriter will review to be the narrative. Again, take control and get your story told the way you want it told.   6. Know your insurance policies. I know you are working with your broker to be your advisor, but I would suggest educating yourself on what is in your insurance policy and what you are actually paying premium for. How is the business interruption and extra expense calculated? Is your policy a blanket or scheduled? What are the sub-limits? The key is to be an educated consumer so you can negotiate your options effectively.  7. Meet with underwriters directly (if this makes sense). This goes hand in hand with the description of operations discussion in that the underwriters need to know who you are and your business. Do you know many of the underwriters I speak with have never been in a foundry? Yet, we expect them to write the insurance for you! Work on getting your underwriter to come to your facility so they can see firsthand your operations and what you are doing to make your operations best in class. If you don’t feel your facility is ready for an underwriter visit, consult with your broker to uncover the steps to be prepared for this visit. The hard market is not going away anytime soon. In this market the insurance companies control who they will sell to and the terms of the sale. As buyers of insurance, the more educated we can be about the seller’s interests the better we can position ourselves for the best terms. Therefore, take charge of what you can control: Update the valuation of your assets. Conduct and document safety, site management, and basic housekeeping. Document and communicate facility upgrades and improvements. Create a clear description of operations. Partner with your insurance broker/agent for a renewal marketing plan. There are many things we cannot control, such as the facultative reinsurance market or if the insurance company “suits” decide they are pulling out of writing more foundries. However, focusing on what we can control and taking action will drive results. An adage around our firm is, “We can’t direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails.” As the storm continues to churn and winds blow, let’s adjust the sails and find calmer seas. JOHN LINK, CPCU,CIC Vice President, Risk Management 563.590.0428 jlink@cottinghambutler.com View All Posts TAGS: Article Manufacturing Metalcasting Upcoming Events Webinar November 10, 2025 Safety Reimagined: Setting Goals That Actually Drive Change Join SMSC Safety Consultant Scott Christenson for an engaging webinar that explores how to set safety goals that go beyond compliance and transform organizational culture by applying Human and Organizational Performance (HOP) principles. Participants will learn how to shift from traditional metrics to goals that foster continuous learning, organizational resilience, and worker empowerment. Register Now! Register Now! Webinar December 18, 2025 Year-in-Review & Looking Ahead Throughout 2025, HR and employee benefits professionals have continued to navigate an evolving compliance landscape for health and welfare benefit plans. As the year draws to a close, this session will highlight the most significant compliance developments and regulatory changes that shaped 2025 and what they mean for your organization. We’ll also look ahead to 2026, previewing upcoming rules, deadlines, and trends that could impact your benefit strategies in the year to come. Whether you're wrapping up year-end compliance or planning for what’s next, this webinar will help you stay informed and prepared. Examples will be provided to help employers manage different types of common employee positions. Register Now! Register Now! Webinar November 20, 2025 HRA Types & Comparisons With many different permitted types of Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs), employers have a wide array of options to provide tax-favored reimbursement for qualifying medical expenses to employees and their family members. But each HRA type has its own compliance requirements, eligibility rules, and strategic use cases. This month’s webinar will discuss many different HRA types, including HRAs integrated with group medical plans, excepted benefit HRAs, qualified small employer HRAs, individual coverage HRAs, and retiree-only HRAs. We’ll explore how each type works, when it might be a good fit, and what employers need to know to stay compliant. Register Now! Register Now! View All Events Connect with a C&B Representative Today!

For over 15 years, Cottingham & Butler has collected data from motor carriers coast to coast through the Trucking Benchmark Survey to provide participants with a detailed outlook on how their benefits and compensation programs compare against others in the industry. 5 Proven Strategies Every Employer Needs to Know How to Cut Healthcare Costs by Up to 30% Did you know that the average cost of family health coverage in the U.S. is a staggering $31,000 per year? That's nearly half of the typical household income. We've compiled five of the most impactful considerations your company can make to save on health coverage costs while providing exceptional benefits plans for your employees. Free Guide Access Your Free Guide By downloading, you agree to receive updates from Cottingham & Butler. You can unsubscribe at any time. Inside this Free Guide: Prescription Drug Cost Management Learn how to cut drug costs by up to 25% without compromising care. Uncover Hidden Savings Discover alternative coverage options that benefit both you and your employees. Family Coverage Optimization Improve coverage to save $10,000+ per family annually. Smart Healthcare Shopping Discover tools to help employees save thousands on procedures. Innovative Funding Strategies Learn how alternative risk programs can help cut premiums by 5-8% annually. $310,000 Saved A school district with 200 employees optimized their family coverage plans, resulting in substantial savings.

The Cottingham & Butler Manufacturing Practice offers a dedicated focus on risk control, seamless claim services, and comprehensive coverage expertise, delivering a holistic approach to managing the inherent risks faced by today's manufacturers. Personal Lines Insurance Tailored insurance solutions designed for your unique lifestyle and success. As individuals become more successful, they face risks that the mainstream insurance market cannot adequately cover with standard homeowner, automobile, and umbrella policies. Cottingham & Butler offers a private client insurance program tailored to fit your lifestyle and designed to prevent or reduce your likelihood of loss. The Cottingham & Butler Advantage Our personal lines insurance solutions are built on three core principles: Client Advocacy Our private client team works solely for you, not the insurance company Dedicated support for peace of mind for your family, assets, and wealth protection Clients are our number one priority Exclusive Access Partnerships with premier private client companies Ability to offer broader, more comprehensive coverage at competitive costs Drive competition for your business, bringing multiple solutions Thorough Exposure Review Comprehensive coverage review to identify and address gaps Maximization of carrier discounts and household protection measures Strategic deductible analysis for optimal cost-benefit balance Assessment of the negative impact of reporting small claims Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, our proprietary Personal Risk Assessment (PRA) process provides a complete roadmap for optimizing each client’s unique insurance program. We review coverage, risk transfer options, claims management, and loss prevention. The complete Personal Risk Assessment will analyze the following areas: Program Design : Is your program the best for you? Coverage Review : What is really in those policies? Liability Assessment : Does your coverage match your net worth? Risk Management : How effective are your risk solutions? Comprehensive Insurance Solutions and Tailored Coverage for Every Aspect of Your Success Personal Lines Coverages High-value home insurance with unlimited rebuild coverage Luxury auto coverage with agreed value policies Personal umbrella liability up to $100,000,000 Valuable articles protection (blanket and scheduled coverage) Yacht and watercraft insurance Private aviation coverage Personal cyber crime coverage Personal Lines Key Features Unlimited rebuild coverage for homes Flexible deductible options (can be waived up to $25,000 for claims over $50,000) Backup of sewer & drain coverage Cash settlement option for total losses Agreed value for auto policies Worldwide coverage for insured personal articles Excess liability coverage up to $100,000,000 Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage up to $10,000,000 "Cottingham & Butler thoroughly understood our needs and evaluated numerous options. They suggested coverage modifications we hadn't considered, resulting in a more comprehensive offering, better protection, and cost savings. Their professional approach left us completely satisfied with our partnership." Personal Lines Client | Chicago, IL Personal Lines Insurance Insight & Impact Maximizing Protection While Minimizing Costs In the world of personal insurance, finding the right balance between comprehensive coverage and affordable premiums can be challenging. Personal Lines Optimizing Multi-Home Insurance: How We Increased Coverage and Decreased Premiums by 33% This case study showcases how strategic adjustments can lead to superior protection at a lower cost. Personal Lines From Gaps to Comprehensive Coverage In the world of high-net-worth individuals, insurance needs can be complex and multifaceted. Personal Lines VIEW MORE Connect with a Personal Lines Insurance Specialist!

Our cost management strategies integrate analytics, alternative funding methods, and forward-thinking claim management to minimize expenses and maintain the value of your investments. Cost Management Reducing Costs While Maintaining Value CONNECT WITH OUR TEAM Recent studies have shown that family healthcare in the U.S. is now over $31K per year and the #1 cause of bankruptcy for even those with health insurance. We align employee benefit programs with your financial goals by analyzing market trends and usage patterns. Together, we identify cost-saving opportunities and assemble expert teams to enhance your financial success beyond insurance premiums, offering the comprehensive tools and resources required for overall cost reduction. We believe in going beyond traditional approaches. Our cost management strategies focus on minimizing expenses while ensuring your insurance investments retain their value. We integrate analytics, alternative funding methods, and forward-thinking claim management to optimize your benefits. Analytics: Empowering Informed Decisions Using advanced analytics, our team works to understand your specific needs, calculating cost-saving strategies and working with you to put effective solutions in place. Alternative Funding: Our Belief in Buying Less Insurance We adopt a forward-thinking approach, challenging the conventional idea of excessive insurance. Our specialists analyze your requirements and recommend alternative funding models that allow you to achieve comprehensive coverage while reducing unnecessary expenses. Claim Management: Innovative Risk Transfer, Reduction, and Mitigation Strategies Innovative risk management isn't just about handling claims; it's about understanding your risk profile and proactively mitigating it. Our strategies encompass pharmacy, wellness, and more, ensuring your risk is managed efficiently and cost-effectively. Financial Reporting: Measuring Success and Managing Financials Transparent and effective cost management are key aspects of our service. We provide comprehensive financial reporting that helps you measure the success of your insurance program and make informed decisions to optimize your financial resources. $280+ MILLION IN DIVIDENDS RETURNED TO MEMBERS Discover the Guide Re Captive Advantage – Your Path to Control & Savings Experience insurance like never before— where you're in control. Manage your healthcare spend, collaborate with like-minded businesses, gain more stable risk-sharing, and reap the potential return of underwriting profits. With expert advice and exclusive analytics, a new era of insurance awaits. VISIT OUR STOP LOSS CAPTIVE HUB Featured Expertise Pharmacy Benefits Management to Save on Rx Costs Drug prices skyrocketed by 13.5% in the last year alone! We have the expertise employers need to trim down those pharmacy costs, while making certain your employees have access to the vital medications they need. Considering a Shift? Exploring Self-Insured Health Plans and Captives Tired of rising healthcare costs? Moving to a self-funded health plan can provide employers with greater transparency into healthcare costs and the potential for substantial cost savings. Assess your readiness and explore the advantages of transitioning to a self-insured health plan or stop-loss captive arrangement. Receive a pharmacy benefits program assessment EXPLORE HEALTH PLAN FUNDING OPTIONS 5 Proven Strategies Every Employer Needs to Know Did you know that the average cost of family health coverage in the U.S. is a staggering $31,000 per year? That's nearly half of the typical household income. We've compiled five of the most impactful considerations your company can make to save on health coverage costs while providing exceptional benefits plans for your employees. GET YOUR FREE HEALTHCARE COST SAVINGS GUIDE Your Data At Your Fingertips CONTACT US TO SCHEDULE A DEMO Effortlessly analyze benefits performance, visualize insights, and tailor plan parameters for your members without needing external IT support or consultants. Our tools seamlessly integrate data, empowering informed decisions to enhance your benefits program, optimize costs, and improve employee health outcomes. Secure & Centralized Healthcare Data Customizable On-Demand Reporting & Dashboards Milliman Predictive Member Risk Indexing Quantros Provider Quality Scoring Medicare Cost Equivalent Provider Price Comparisons Population Gaps in Care Enhanced Claims Benchmarking – including National, Regional, and Industry Cost Management Insights Fuel Efficiency Best Practices for Fleets Discover proven strategies to reduce fleet fuel costs by up to 35%. Learn driver training, route optimization, maintenance tips and telematics solutions that cut expenses and boost efficiency for transportation fleets. Articles The Benefits Brief | Micro-Strategy Sessions Access recorded Benefits Brief Micro-Strategy Sessions with BJ McAndrew - 15-minute expert insights on healthcare cost management for CFOs and HR leaders. Topics include eligibility management, pharmacy spend, and cost-effective provider strategies. On-Demand When Good Benefits Go Bad: Rethinking Employer Health Plans Employee benefits expert Josh Surber reveals how traditional employer health plans are failing workers who pay thousands for coverage they can't afford to use. Discover proven solutions including price transparency and chronic condition management. Articles VIEW MORE Cost Management Connect with our Cost-Saving Experts Today!

Employee Benefits Providing a Better Open Enrollment Solution Up Published on Written by: Page View December 28, 2022 Cottingham & Butler A West Virginia manufacturing company wanted to communicate more effectively and implement a holistic benefits package to compete with other surrounding employers. Cottingham & Butler’s employee benefits team got to work by utilizing our unique benchmarking tool to analyze the data and bring various plan options to best fit their employees. Following the employer’s decisions to ensure their employees were appropriately covered by the non-medical lines of coverage, the next most important component was communicating the wonderful enhancements and allowing employees to use technology to enroll versus the outdated paper enrollment forms. They used Cottingham & Butler’s proprietary enrollment text system called BETSY . Our Results Paid Life & Disability Review We reviewed the company’s paid life insurance and disability to restructure the plan and adequately insure employees. This led to a $9M increase in life insurance protection and a weekly income protection increase of $30k. Open Enrollment Solutions After we implemented our easy-to-use and efficient open enrollment solution, BETSY, we were able to move away from the dated paper enrollment process, which allows employees the ability to enroll anywhere at any time and creates administrative ease for HR staff. Enhanced Benefit Plan Communications By offering a wide variety of communication mediums in phased approaches, there was a 100% completion rate and over 50% enrollment in all coverages. Enrollment Satisfaction & Utilization Employees reported back appreciating the upgrades to the communications and benefit plan, according to the employee feedback survey. View All Posts TAGS: Case Study Employee Benefits Employee Rewards & Engagement HR Efficiency Upcoming Events Webinar November 10, 2025 Safety Reimagined: Setting Goals That Actually Drive Change Join SMSC Safety Consultant Scott Christenson for an engaging webinar that explores how to set safety goals that go beyond compliance and transform organizational culture by applying Human and Organizational Performance (HOP) principles. Participants will learn how to shift from traditional metrics to goals that foster continuous learning, organizational resilience, and worker empowerment. Register Now! Register Now! Webinar December 18, 2025 Year-in-Review & Looking Ahead Throughout 2025, HR and employee benefits professionals have continued to navigate an evolving compliance landscape for health and welfare benefit plans. As the year draws to a close, this session will highlight the most significant compliance developments and regulatory changes that shaped 2025 and what they mean for your organization. We’ll also look ahead to 2026, previewing upcoming rules, deadlines, and trends that could impact your benefit strategies in the year to come. Whether you're wrapping up year-end compliance or planning for what’s next, this webinar will help you stay informed and prepared. Examples will be provided to help employers manage different types of common employee positions. Register Now! Register Now! Webinar November 20, 2025 HRA Types & Comparisons With many different permitted types of Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs), employers have a wide array of options to provide tax-favored reimbursement for qualifying medical expenses to employees and their family members. But each HRA type has its own compliance requirements, eligibility rules, and strategic use cases. This month’s webinar will discuss many different HRA types, including HRAs integrated with group medical plans, excepted benefit HRAs, qualified small employer HRAs, individual coverage HRAs, and retiree-only HRAs. We’ll explore how each type works, when it might be a good fit, and what employers need to know to stay compliant. Register Now! Register Now! View All Events Connect with a C&B Representative Today!

We recognize the distinctive insurance needs faced by independent contractors and the motor carriers they serve. With our specialized expertise and extensive industry experience, we're dedicated to being your trusted partner as your business expands, offering adaptable insurance options crafted to mitigate accidents and minimize expenses. Independent Contractor Insurance Solutions Elevating your independent contractor program with tailored solutions for enhanced protection and peace of mind. CONNECT WITH OUR TEAM We recognize the distinctive insurance needs faced by independent contractors and the motor carriers they serve. With our specialized expertise and extensive industry experience, we're dedicated to being your trusted partner as your business expands, offering adaptable insurance options crafted to mitigate accidents and minimize expenses. Our Approach Our Independent Contractor Assessment thoroughly evaluates both insurable and non-insurable risk factors inherent in independent contractor operations. The Independent Contractor RMA focuses on 3 main areas and encompasses over 130 points of exposure: Insurance Perform thorough policy reviews, conduct gap analysis, and facilitate placement of coverage. Administration Efficiently manage & review insurance files, streamline online enrollment, certificates, and settlement deduction integration, along with certificate management for non-settlement participants. Legal & Compliance Conduct lease contract audits and fleet state exposure analyses by transportation-specific attorneys. Independent Contractor Risk Scorecard Discover your contractor risk exposure using our Independent Contractor Risk Scorecard. Identify gaps, consequences, and solutions to mitigate risks, including: Avoiding severe federal and state fines and penalties for misclassifying drivers Eliminating Workers' Compensation 1099 premium audit Reducing contractor bad debt Alleviating costly class action lawsuits from independent contractors Attracting and retain independent contractors with competitive insurance programs GET STARTED – TAKE THE ASSESSMENT NOW Exclusive Program: Independent Driver Solutions (IDS) Cottingham & Butler’s Independent Driver program provides flexible insurance options that independent drivers need from a partner they can trust. Flexible Options with Comprehensive Protection: Occupational Accident Workers Compensation Physical Damage Contract Liability Non Trucking Liability LEARN MORE Independent Contractor Insights Owner-Operator & Small Fleet: Strategic Insurance Approaches for Growth Learn how different insurance strategies can drive growth for operations of all sizes. Articles On-Demand | CVSA Brake Check: Insider Tips and Tricks CVSA’s Operation Airbrake Program's next scheduled campaign will occur from August 25-31, 2024. In 2023, 18,875 commercial motor vehicles... Articles The Sub-Hauler Model What if you could combine the benefits of freight brokers, and keep a consistent partner and stream of freight for the trucking company? Articles VIEW MORE IC Team Connect with our Independent Contractor Team Today

More than 2,500 trucking companies nationwide depend on Cottingham & Butler for their insurance needs. Get a quote today from the #1 commercial truck insurer. Get a quote with the top commercial truck insurer. CONNECT WITH OUR TEAM More than 2,500 trucking companies nationwide depend on Cottingham & Butler for their insurance needs. Get a quote now! >> Why Choose Cottingham & Butler? Dependable Coverage Our policies are customizable, allowing you to choose the coverages that best suit your business. We specialize in trucking, which gives you the peace of mind knowing both you and your trucks are protected on and off the road. Affordable Rates Are you looking for affordable insurance but worried about sacrificing quality and service? We’ll help you compare insurance rates to find you the most affordable premiums and work hard to ensure ‘cheap’ only describes your rates, not the quality of service. Quality Service You have loads to manage, so let us handle the insurance. With Cottingham & Butler, you’ll be backed by the trucking industry’s best customer support team. Our clients also receive exclusive access to the latest industry news, valuable safety support and responsive, friendly and experienced service representatives. Trucking Expertise We know trucking. Having been in business since 1987, we now serve over 2500 trucking companies of every size and from coast to coast. You can rest assured that we have the experience, reliability and strength to navigate today’s challenging commercial insurance market. Trucking Get a Quote Contact Contact our Trucking Experts Today!

Empowering hospitality leaders to protect their assets, optimize operations, and create exceptional guest experiences. Hotels & Resorts Empowering hoteliers to protect their assets, optimize operations, and create exceptional guest experiences. In a world driven by guest expectations, dynamic market conditions, and evolving operational demands, protecting your hospitality business has become increasingly more complex. Cottingham & Butler delivers specialized risk management solutions, responsive claims advocacy, and comprehensive coverage expertise, providing a holistic approach to managing the unique risks faced by today's hospitality leaders. Running a Hotel Property is Complex Enough Your insurance and benefits program should solve challenges, not create them. Rising Costs Property expenses and operational costs continuing to climb Safety Growing liability exposures in an increasingly complex world Staffing Struggles Intense competition for qualified hospitality talent Compliance Burden Ever-changing regulations adding complexity to operations Guest Expectations Evolving demands for safety and service excellence Turn Risk Management into Revenue Most in the hospitality industry view risk management as a necessary cost. We see it differently. Through our strategic approach, we help turn your risk management program into a competitive advantage. 1 Insurance & Consulting Strategic risk transfer and expert guidance tailored to hotel operations • Comprehensive property & liability coverage design • Market leverage to optimize premiums • Industry-specific policy enhancements • Strategic risk financing solutions It’s widely accepted that effective risk management is a key contributor to business success. But what we often find, is that most insurance programs limit their view of risk, and only look at a part of the entire risk picture. The Cottingham & Butler Risk Management Assessment is a proprietary, deep-dive analysis that explores each client’s unique risks and uncovers gaps that are often missed in the normal insurance process – which if left unmanaged, could jeopardize the entire livelihood of your business operations. LEARN MORE Benefits that Work as Hard as You Do The hospitality industry never stops—and neither should your benefits strategy. Our comprehensive approach helps you control costs, streamline administration, and deliver value that makes a difference for your business and employees. 1 Cost Management & Analytics Strategic solutions to optimize spending and maximize value across your workforce • Advanced analytics and predictive modeling • Medical and Rx cost containment strategies • Alternative funding for diverse workforce needs • Multi-location network optimization Download our hospitality brochure to learn more about our team, risk and insurance solutions, safety services, and more! DOWNLOAD OUR HOSPITALITY BROCHURE The Cottingham & Butler Advantage Unmatched expertise and resources dedicated to hospitality success 4th largest private broker with hospitality-focused expertise 1,200+ dedicated specialists in claims, safety, compliance, and benefits 97% client retention rate backed by a client-focused approach Connect with our Hotels & Resorts Team Today!

Gain control over your healthcare expenses, reduce financial risk, and access tailored coverage with our Stop Loss Captive solutions. Our expertise and innovative approach ensure you're covered, and your bottom line is protected. Stop Loss Captive Solutions Cottingham & Butler Captives & Programs deliver alternative risk solutions for best-in-class companies. CONNECT WITH OUR TEAM Gain control over your healthcare expenses, reduce financial risk, and access tailored coverage with our Stop Loss Captive solutions. Our expertise and innovative approach ensure you're covered, and your bottom line is protected. Captive Advantage A growing number of employers are considering medical stop loss group captives as a strategic alternative to both traditional first-dollar health insurance and self-funded programs. Guide Re is a member owned group captive managed by Cottingham & Butler, that harnesses the benefits of self-funded health plans while incorporating a captive insurance overlay and allows flexibility to tailor health programs to your unique requirements. Unlock the Strategic Benefits of Captive Insurance Predictable Costs Less Market Volatility Control Over Claims Lower Premiums Tailored Coverage Best-in-Class Peer Engagement Return of Underwriting Profits Company Specific Loss Control Deerwalk Analytics is a state-of-the-art population health management and healthcare analytics engine that provides employers with meaningful insights to better manage and analyze their costs, care quality, and risk of populations SCHEDULE A DEMO WITH OUR TEAM Is a Group Captive Right for You? Tired of paying too much for your insurance? Want more control over claims handling? Want to join growth-focused peers? Need more proactive safety support? Ready to invest in yourself for premium returns? CONTACT OUR CAPTIVE EXPERTS TODAY! Captive Insight & Impact Why Captive Insurance Could Be Your Company's Best-Kept Financial Secret Discover how captive insurance transforms business coverage from a pure expense into potential profit. Maintain comprehensive protection while earning dividend returns when claims are favorable. Learn why smart companies are choosing this alternative to traditional insurance that disappears forever. Articles The Captive Edge: From Standard to Superior Watch "The Captive Edge: From Standard to Superior" webinar recording. Discover how Cottingham & Butler's captive insurance programs deliver superior renewal outcomes with data analysis and client testimonials. On-Demand Debunking the Top Four Myths of Captive Insurance From misconceptions to realities, discover how member-owned group captives benefit best-in-class companies. Articles VIEW MORE Stop Loss Captive Contact our Stop Loss Captive Experts Today!