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Employer Groups Saving Money with Better Coverage Saving money while providing excellent benefit plans for your employees is a big challenge in today’s environment. ​ The key to controlling your group health insurance costs is getting competitive quotes from all the top health insurers in California. We help you cover your employees Get Quotes The Benefits Store provides experienced employee benefits advisors for California Employer Groups of 2-100 employees to help you shop, compare and select the right group health insurance plans for your team. Private Exchange Platform In addition, ask us about a Private Exchange Platform for your group which includes W-2 employees and at your option, your 1099 Independent contractors. You select the funding levels for each. Let’s help save you money and provide the best for your team. ​ Please contact Jake Schroeder for more information at (925) 478-3405 or by email at Jake@BenefitsStore.com . ​ Free Quotes Online Employers can receive Free Quotes Online.

Available Voluntary Benefits Benefits paid directly to you that can help pay expenses if a covered accident occurs. Accident Insurance Find My Plan Provides a lump-sum benefit if you are diagnosed with a covered illness. These payments can be used however they are needed. Critical Illness Insurance Find My Plan Can pay a benefit directly to you for hospital stays or outpatient surgery, in addition to any medical insurance you have. Hospital Indemnity Insurance Find My Plan Helps offset out-of-pocket expenses incurred from initial diagnosis through recovery. Provides an additional benefit for cancer screening tests. Cancer Insurance Find My Plan

California Health Insurance Find My Plan Our Programs Includes Anthem Blue Cross® Medical Plan, New Dental Choice Special Dental Plan, Mutual Of Omaha Guaranteed Issue Group Life Insurance with AD&D, Vision Plan of America, and Admin Fee CREBP Benefit Package* w/Anthem Blue Cross® Medical Find My Plan Shop, compare and select the most affordable group health insurance plans. Let’s help you save $$$ and provide the best for your team. Have both W-2 employees and 1099 Independent Contractors? Ask us about our Private Label program. Employer Group Health Find My Plan Includes Kaiser® Medical Plan, New Dental Choice Special Dental Plan, Mutual Of Omaha Guaranteed Issue Group Life Insurance with AD&D, Vision Plan of America, and Admin Fee CREBP Benefit Package* w/Kaiser® Medical Find My Plan Get Quality Health Insurance at a Price You Can Afford! More than 50 plan options available for individuals and families. Whether you are self-employed, in-between jobs or in need of health insurance coverage, we have a plan for you. Individual and Family Health Find My Plan Health Find My Plan Realtor©, Corporate and Affiliate Association Members can choose from CREBP packages with more than 20+ Kaiser® Group Plan Options and more than 60+ Anthem Blue Cross® Group Plan Options. Monthly E-Newsletter and Benefit Advisor We scour the web for straight-forward articles from reputable third-party sources (such as Kaiser, The Wall Street Journal & more) that address how the various topics of health care can have a direct impact on our clients. The newsletter includes several columns on current health news, health events and recognized health days. We send these directly to our clients. We utilize both Facebook and Twitter to keep our clients and Associations up to date on the most important developments in the health care marketplace and to communicate topics of interest that can have a direct effect on health and health care coverage. *The E-Newsletter can be copied & pasted for inclusion on Association websites and/or electronic correspondence to Association Members. Employer Groups The health insurance marketplace is very dynamic and constantly changing. The Benefits Store utilizes the latest options in program design to meet both your budget and your employee’s health needs. We partner with technical online platforms (including Quotit) for fast turnaround and enrollment in the bidding cycle. Covered California Benefits Store and California’s Health Exchange – Covered California (Covered CA) Our firm has multiple Brokers that have successfully completed the Covered CA licensing requirements and are certified to assist consumers with the navigation and enrollment process into California’s Health Exchange. The process can be complicated for consumers doing this on their own, as well as choosing the best plan for themselves and their family. Since there is no discount/price savings for clients enrolling on their own, it is usually advisable to have assistance from a Benefit Store Broker in this process. We have a dedicated section that is an educational and information resource for individuals needing clarification on Covered CA issues for the self-employed and small businesses. It addresses many of the questions we have been getting from Californians and even provides a subsidy calculator. Go to the Covered California page. What Our Clients Say ★★★★★ Thank you again for your time, help and perseverance to get this accomplished. You've given us some peace of mind regarding health coverage. Please let us know who we can commend you to at the Benefits Store. Michelle and the Get Results Team ★★★★★ You guys are really great. I just stood up on the bleachers at my sons' baseball game and announced your praises! Beth, Santa Barbara CA ★★★★★ After just 4 days The Benefits Store staff accomplished more than other "industry related" staff were able to do after 30 days! Plus the staff is sincere and easy to work with! Jennifer, San Diego CA Our Partners

Vacationing with family is a wonderful way to create lasting memories, but ensuring everyone's safety—especially children and elderly family members—can be challenging. With a bit of preparation and mindfulness, you can enjoy a worry-free trip. Here’s how to keep your loved ones safe while traveling. 1. Plan Ahead: Choose Family-Friendly Accommodations The first step in ensuring your family’s safety starts with selecting the right place to stay. When booking accommodations, look for family-friendly hotels or vacation rentals that offer secure environments. Check Security Features : Ensure the property has good security, such as 24-hour front desk service, security cameras, and well-lit surroundings. Request Lower Floors : If staying in a hotel, request a room on a lower floor. This can be helpful in case of emergencies and is often easier for young children and older adults to access. 2. Childproof Your Hotel Room Once you arrive at your destination, take a few minutes to childproof your hotel room. It’s easy to overlook potential hazards in a new environment, so be proactive. Move Breakables : Relocate fragile items like glass vases and lamps out of reach to prevent accidents. Cover Outlets : Bring along outlet covers or tape to childproof electrical outlets. Secure Windows and Balconies : Ensure windows are locked, and if your room has a balcony, check that the door is secure. Never leave children unattended on balconies. 3. Keep a Close Eye in Crowded Places Crowded places like tourist attractions, theme parks, or busy streets can be overwhelming, especially for young children and seniors. It’s crucial to have a plan to keep everyone together and safe. Dress Alike : Consider dressing your family in matching or brightly colored outfits. This makes it easier to spot each other in a crowd. Set a Meeting Point : As soon as you arrive at a crowded location, designate a clear and recognizable meeting point in case anyone gets separated. Use Identification : For young children, consider ID bracelets with your contact information. Make sure older children and elderly family members know how to contact you if they get lost. 4. Stay Connected Communication is key to keeping your family safe while traveling. Make sure everyone is equipped to stay in touch. Carry a Cell Phone : Ensure all adults and older children have a working cell phone with them at all times. International travelers should arrange for a local SIM card or an international calling plan before leaving home. Share Location : Use location-sharing apps like Find My Friends or Google Maps to keep tabs on each other’s whereabouts. 5. Prepare for Medical Emergencies Accidents and illnesses can happen anytime, so it’s best to be prepared, especially when traveling with children or seniors. Pack a First Aid Kit : Include essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription medications. Know the Nearest Medical Facility : Upon arrival, locate the nearest hospital or urgent care center, and keep the address handy. Keep Health Documents Accessible : Carry a copy of each family member’s health insurance card, vaccination records, and a list of any allergies or medical conditions. 6. Stay Vigilant About Food and Water Safety When traveling, it’s important to be cautious about what you eat and drink, especially in areas where foodborne illnesses are common. Drink Bottled Water : Stick to bottled or filtered water, and avoid ice in drinks unless you’re sure it’s made from purified water. Choose Restaurants Wisely : Opt for restaurants with good reviews and high turnover to ensure fresh and safe food. Be cautious with street food, particularly in countries where food safety standards may differ from what you’re used to. 7. Plan for a Smooth Return Home Returning home safely is just as important as the trip itself. A few final precautions can ensure your journey ends on a positive note. Double-Check Travel Documents : Before leaving, make sure everyone’s passports, tickets, and any required travel documents are in order. Secure Your Home : Before departing, make sure your home is secure—lock doors and windows, and set any alarms or security systems. Consider asking a neighbor or friend to keep an eye on your property. Traveling with family can be both exciting and a bit nerve-wracking, but with careful planning and attention to safety, you can ensure that everyone enjoys the adventure. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be well on your way to a safe and memorable family vacation. Safe travels! Your health and safety matters! Contact The Benefits Store today for you and your families health insurance needs!

In today’s digital world, screens are an integral part of our daily lives, especially for children. From online learning to video games and social media, screen time has skyrocketed among kids of all ages. While technology offers many benefits, it also poses potential risks to eye health, particularly when screen time is prolonged. As parents, it's crucial to understand these risks and take steps to protecting your children's vision. The Impact of Prolonged Screen Time on Children's Eyes Excessive screen time can lead to a condition known as digital eye strain  or computer vision syndrome . This condition is characterized by symptoms such as: Eye fatigue:  Prolonged focusing on a screen can tire the eye muscles, leading to discomfort and fatigue. Dry eyes:  Staring at screens often reduces blink rates, which can cause the eyes to dry out, leading to irritation. Headaches:  Straining to see small text or images can result in headaches, particularly if the screen is too close or the lighting is poor. Blurred vision:  Extended screen time may lead to temporary blurred vision or difficulty focusing on distant objects. Neck and shoulder pain:  Poor posture during screen use can contribute to discomfort in the neck and shoulders, often linked to prolonged screen time. These symptoms can affect a child’s comfort, productivity, and even their ability to focus in school. Over time, without intervention, these issues may contribute to long-term vision problems. Tips to Reduce Eye Strain in Children Fortunately, there are several strategies parents can implement to reduce the risk of digital eye strain and protect their children’s eye health: Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Encourage your child to take a break every 20 minutes by looking at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This simple rule helps relax the eye muscles and reduce fatigue. Ensure Proper Lighting: Make sure your child’s screen is not the only source of light in the room. Avoid bright overhead lighting or direct sunlight that can cause glare. A well-lit environment with balanced lighting reduces strain on the eyes. Maintain Proper Distance and Posture: The screen should be at arm’s length (about 18 to 24 inches away) and at eye level or slightly below. This reduces the need to tilt the head or strain the neck. Limit Screen Time: Set daily limits for recreational screen time, especially for younger children. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than one hour per day of high-quality screen time for children aged 2 to 5, and consistent limits for older children. Blink Often: Remind your child to blink frequently while using screens. Blinking helps keep the eyes moist and prevents dryness and irritation. Use Screen Filters: Consider using blue light filters or glasses to reduce the amount of blue light emitted by screens. Blue light exposure, especially before bedtime, can disrupt sleep patterns and contribute to eye strain. Encourage Outdoor Play: Encourage your child to spend time outdoors each day. Natural daylight and looking at distant objects help strengthen eye muscles and reduce the risk of myopia (nearsightedness). Regular Eye Exams: Schedule regular eye exams for your child to monitor their vision health. An optometrist can detect early signs of digital eye strain or other vision issues and recommend appropriate solutions. Healthy Screen Time Routine for Your Child Creating a balanced routine is key to managing your child's screen time and protecting their eye health. Here’s a simple guide you can follow: Morning: Limit screen time before school. Encourage outdoor activities or reading instead. During School Hours: Ensure your child takes regular breaks following the 20-20-20 rule during online classes. Afternoon: After school, allow a short period of screen time (e.g., 30 minutes) for relaxation, followed by physical activity or outdoor play. Evening: Limit screen use to educational content or family time. Avoid screens at least one hour before bed to promote better sleep. Before Bed: Replace screen time with calming activities like reading a book or listening to soft music. By integrating these habits into your child’s daily routine, you can help protect their vision and promote overall eye health in our increasingly digital world. While screens are a significant part of modern life, balancing their use with proactive eye care can make a big difference in your child’s well-being. By understanding the impact of prolonged screen time and implementing these practical tips, you can help your child enjoy the benefits of technology without compromising their eye health. For comprehensive support in safeguarding your child’s eye health, contact The Benefits Store today . Our knowledgeable brokers are ready to assist you in finding the perfect vision insurance plan tailored to your family’s needs. Ensure your children receive the best care and protection for their eyesight—because their vision is essential to their bright future!

Beaches are among the most beloved natural landscapes, offering places of relaxation, recreation, and natural beauty. However, the increasing amount of pollution and litter poses a significant threat to these coastal environments. Clean Beach Awareness is vital for maintaining the health of our beaches and oceans, ensuring they remain pristine for future generations. Here’s why clean beaches matter and how you can help keep them that way. Why Clean Beaches Matter Environmental Health Marine Life:  Litter, especially plastic, poses a severe threat to marine life. Animals can ingest or become entangled in debris, leading to injury or death. Ecosystem Balance:  Pollutants can disrupt the delicate balance of coastal ecosystems, affecting plants, animals, and water quality. Human Health Polluted Waters:  Swimming in polluted waters can cause various health issues, including skin rashes, respiratory problems, and infections. Food Safety:  Pollutants can enter the food chain through contaminated fish and seafood, posing risks to human health. Economic Impact Tourism:  Clean, attractive beaches draw tourists, boosting local economies. Pollution can deter visitors, leading to economic losses. Fishing Industry:  A healthy marine environment supports fisheries, which are vital for the livelihoods of many coastal communities. How You Can Help Keep Beaches Clean Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Reduce Waste:  Minimize single-use plastics and opt for reusable items like water bottles, bags, and containers. Recycle Properly:  Ensure recyclables are disposed of correctly and clean. Many beaches have recycling bins, so use them whenever possible. Participate in Beach Cleanups Join Local Efforts:  Many organizations host beach cleanups. Volunteering for these events is a hands-on way to make a difference. Organize Your Own Cleanup:  Gather friends, family, or community members to clean a local beach. Make it a fun and educational activity. Dispose of Waste Responsibly Use Trash Bins:  Always use designated trash bins for your waste. If bins are full or unavailable, take your trash with you. Cigarette Disposal:  Cigarette butts are one of the most common types of litter. Use portable ashtrays or ensure butts are disposed of in trash bins. Be Mindful of Your Activities Picnics and Gatherings:  When enjoying a meal or gathering at the beach, ensure all food wrappers, containers, and other waste are properly disposed of. Water Activities:  Be cautious not to leave any gear or equipment behind. Secure items like plastic bags and bottles that could easily blow away. Educate Others Spread Awareness:  Share information about the importance of clean beaches with friends, family, and social media networks. Lead by Example:  Your actions can inspire others. Demonstrate good practices by always cleaning up after yourself and participating in community efforts. Maintaining clean beaches is essential for protecting our environment, health, and economies. By taking simple actions to reduce waste, participating in cleanups, disposing of trash responsibly, and educating others, we can all contribute to the preservation of our beautiful coastlines. Let’s work together to ensure our beaches remain pristine and inviting for generations to come. Remember, every small effort counts. Next time you visit the beach, take a moment to appreciate its beauty and consider how you can help keep it clean. Our oceans and future generations will thank you.