04/30/25

Group Benefit Plan Options for Employers in Oregon

At Elliott, Powell, Baden, and Baker Insurance, every Oregon business deserves a benefits plan as unique as the people who make it successful. When it comes to offering health insurance to your team, there are a variety of group coverage options to fit your company’s size, industry, and budget.

Here’s a closer look at the most common types of group health plans available for businesses in Oregon:

1. Traditional PPO Fully-Insured Group Health Insurance

The most familiar and widely available option, these plans provide comprehensive medical coverage, including doctor visits, hospital care, preventive services, and prescription medications. Costs are shared between Oregon employers and their employees. PPOs offer greater flexibility, allowing employees to see both in-network and out-of-network providers without referrals., Employees across Oregon appreciate the broader range of healthcare choices.

2. Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) and Community Care Plans

HMOs are known for their lower premiums and out-of-pocket costs. They require employees to use a specific network of healthcare providers and obtain referrals to see specialists. These plans are a popular, cost-effective choice for many Oregon businesses.

3. High-Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs) with Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)

HDHPs offer lower premiums and higher deductibles, which help control upfront costs. When paired with an HSA, Oregon employees can save tax-free for medical expenses, providing both flexibility and financial benefits.

4. Level-Funded and Self-Funded Plans

Rather than paying premiums to an insurance company, some Oregon employers opt to cover healthcare claims directly. Self-funded plans offer flexibility and potential savings, but are generally better suited for larger organizations with predictable healthcare needs. Level-funded plans are a middle ground between fully insured and self-funded plans, and can be a successful model for some employers.

Choosing the correct type of health plan is just the beginning. Here’s why offering a group health plan is a strategic and meaningful investment for your business in Oregon:

1. Attract and Retain Top Talent in Oregon

Health benefits are a significant factor in candidates’ evaluations of job offers. Offering a competitive group health plan helps Oregon employers stand out and retain top talent in an increasingly competitive job market.

2. Boost Employee Productivity and Morale

When Oregon employees have access to affordable healthcare, they are more likely to stay healthy, engaged, and productive at work. Investing in health benefits leads to fewer sick days, higher morale, and a more positive workplace culture.

3. Save Money Through Tax Benefits

Employer contributions toward group health premiums are tax-deductible at both the federal and state levels in Oregon. Small businesses in Oregon may also be eligible for additional tax credits, which can provide even greater financial benefits.

4. Strengthen Your Company’s Reputation in Oregon Communities

Oregon businesses that prioritize employee well-being earn respect from customers, partners, and the community. Offering health benefits strengthens your reputation as a responsible, people-first employer across Portland and beyond.

5. Simplify Healthcare Access for Oregon Teams

Group plans typically offer broader coverage and lower premiums compared to individual options available in Oregon’s healthcare marketplace. Providing reliable and affordable access to healthcare enables your employees to focus on delivering their best work.


Benefits plan

At Elliott, Powell, Baden, and Baker Insurance, we’ve been helping Oregon businesses design tailored group health insurance solutions for decades. Whether you’re a growing small business in Portland or an established employer anywhere in Oregon, we’ll help you build a plan that fits your people, your goals, and your budget.Contact us today to explore your group health coverage options and start building a healthier, stronger future for your Oregon business and your employees.

04/21/25

 Oregon State Minimum Requirements for Business Insurance

 Starting or growing a business in Oregon is exciting, but it also means ensuring proper protection. Business insurance helps safeguard your investment from the unexpected. In some cases, it’s not just a brilliant idea—it’s required by law.

So, what are the minimum requirements for business insurance in Oregon? And how can you be sure you’re meeting the legal standards while protecting your growing business? Let’s break it down.

Oregon’s Required Business Insurance Coverage

 Workers’ Compensation Insurance

Oregon law requires you to carry workers’ compensation insurance if your business has one or more employees, regardless of whether they’re full-time, part-time, or seasonal. This coverage helps pay for medical expenses and lost wages if an employee gets injured on the job.

Note: Sole proprietors without employees are exempt, but may carry workers’ comp for personal protection.

Commercial Auto Insurance

If your business owns or operates private passenger vehicles, commercial auto insurance is mandatory. Oregon’s minimum coverage requirements include:

  • $25,000 per person for bodily injury
  • $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
  • $20,000 for property damage
  • Uninsured motorist and personal injury protection (PIP) coverage is also required for operators of private passenger automobiles, trucks and vans.

Keep in mind, if your business involves operating heavy vehicles (over 10,000 GVW) or if your business is trucking, you will need to carry at least $750,000 liability limits.

Coverage That’s Optional—But Recommended

While not mandated by the state, these policies are often essential depending on your business type:

General Liability Insurance

This is a foundational coverage that almost every business should carry. General Liability Insurance protects your company against:

  • Bodily injury: If a customer, vendor, or third party gets hurt on your premises or because of your operations, this coverage can help pay for medical costs and potential lawsuits.
  • Property damage: This coverage kicks in if your business accidentally damages someone else’s property (e.g., a contractor breaks a client’s window).
  • Legal claims: It covers the legal fees, settlements, or judgments if your business is sued for covered incidents.

 Think of it as your basic shield against everyday business risks.

Professional Liability Insurance (Errors & Omissions)

If your business offers advice, services, or consulting, Professional Liability Insurance—also known as E&O insurance—is critical.

  • Covers claims of negligence, errors, or omissions in your services.
  • Protects against financial loss suffered by clients due to your advice or services.
  • Common for consultants, lawyers, architects, IT professionals, and financial advisors.
business insurance

Even the most experienced professionals can make mistakes—the team at EPB&B Insurance can find the coverage that protects your reputation and your bottom line.

04/13/25

EPB&B in the Community: A Week of Giving Back

At EPB&B Insurance, community is at the heart of everything we do. Supporting organizations that uplift and empower people in need isn’t just something we talk about—it’s something we live. This past week, our team had the privilege of engaging with several incredible local nonprofits that are making a real difference in the Portland area. Here’s a look at how we’ve been showing up for our community:

Supporting Families with Path Home

On April 10th, EPB&B was proud to be a $5,000 sponsor at the Path Home Family Reunion. Path Home tirelessly helps Portland-area families secure stable housing and the necessary tools to stay there. The evening was full of fun games, music, delicious food, and fundraising for a critical cause. We’re grateful for Path Home’s work in building stronger, more secure families in our community. Learn more: path-home.org

A Musical Celebration for a Cause

EPB&B President Marc Baker celebrated his birthday in the most generous way possible—by giving back. On April 11th, Marc hosted a birthday bash at the Crystal Ballroom and EPB&B generously donated $5,000 to the cause. Proceeds from the night’s event went toward two incredible organizations that support the local music community:

  • The Jeremy Wilson Foundation offers emergency assistance to musicians in need.
    Learn More: thejwf.org
  • Oregon Music Hall of Fame – preserving the legacy and celebrating the impact of Oregon’s music scene.
    Learn More: omhof.org

Many EPB&B team members were in attendance, enjoying live performances by The Delines and X the Band, and celebrating Marc’s commitment to causes that rock—literally.

Growing Together with Birch Community Services

The giving continued on April 12th, as EPB&B joined Birch Community Services as a $5,000 table sponsor at their “Together We Grow” Benefit Auction. Birch supports Portland families who are falling through the cracks, offering food, education, and a path toward financial stability. It was an inspiring night of generosity and community.

Learn more: birchcommunityservices.org

At EPB&B, we believe in showing up—for our clients, partners, and community. We’re incredibly proud to support these organizations and their life-changing work. From housing and hunger to music and mentorship, we thank each of them for making Portland a more compassionate and connected place.

Together, we’re growing a stronger community.

04/01/25

The Importance of Auto Insurance in Protecting Against Distracted Driving Accidents

Personal auto insurance serves as a critical safety net, especially given the prevalence of distracted driving incidents. Seemingly harmless actions—like taking a bite of a burger, checking navigation, or flipping through music—can lead to severe accidents. April is recognized as National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of attentive driving and the dangers of multitasking behind the wheel.

Even the most experienced drivers increase their risk when they divide their attention. Consider these statistics:

  • Daily Fatalities: According to the Center for Disease Control Distracted driving claims approximately nine lives every day in the U.S., totaling around 3,500 deaths annually.
  • Injury Rates: In 2022, an estimated 289,310 people were injured in traffic crashes involving distracted drivers reports the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration
  • Teen Impact: Drivers under 20 years old represent 6% of those involved in fatal crashes where distraction was a factor.
  • Economic Cost: Distracted driving imposes an economic burden of approximately $40 billion annually.
  • Texting Risks: Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for about five seconds—at 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of a football field blindfolded.
  • Perception vs. Behavior: While 96% of people acknowledge that texting while driving is dangerous, 44% admit to doing it.
  • Truck Accidents: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration reports that 71% of large truck accidents involved the driver engaging in activities other than driving.

How Auto Insurance Protects You in the Event of an Accident

Despite taking precautions, accidents can still happen. Auto insurance plays a vital role in protecting you financially if you’re involved in a crash—whether caused by distracted driving or another factor.

  1. Liability Coverage – If you are at fault in an accident, liability insurance helps cover medical expenses, property damage, and legal fees for the other party.
  2. Collision Coverage – Pays for repairs or replacement of your vehicle if it’s damaged in a crash, regardless of fault.
  3. Comprehensive Coverage – Covers non-collision-related incidents, such as theft, vandalism, and natural disasters.
  4. Medical Payments & Personal Injury Protection (PIP) – Helps cover medical bills for you and your passengers, regardless of fault.
  5. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage – Protects you if you’re hit by a driver who has little or no insurance.

distracted driving

By eliminating distractions, drivers can better protect themselves, their passengers, and others on the road. However, having the right auto insurance policy ensures you’re financially protected when accidents do occur. Contact our team and we will review your coverage to keep you protected.