See beyond the renewal rate — protect plan stability, negotiate competitively, and make confident decisions.
Why benchmarking matters
Many organizations only review benefits once renewal rates arrive. By then, leverage is limited. GMFSI starts early and looks at the full picture — not just this year’s rate — so you can protect stability and make informed decisions.
Claims experience trends
We review claims patterns, utilization, and high-cost drivers. This helps separate “one-time noise” from repeatable trends and supports smarter plan design decisions before renewal.
The GMFSI Renewal Framework
A structured process designed to improve predictability, reduce surprises, and strengthen negotiating position. Click a card to expand details.
Early renewal analysis
We begin 90–120 days prior to renewal.
We clarify renewal timing, data needs, and decision constraints so you have leverage before numbers arrive.
- Confirm renewal date + carrier requirements
- Collect plan & claims context early
- Define objectives (cost, stability, coverage)
Independent benchmarking
Compare pricing, structure, and plan design.
We benchmark against relevant market ranges and alternative structures — with sustainability in mind.
- Carrier comparisons and trade-offs
- Pooling vs. experience-rated dynamics
- Plan design opportunities
Strategic negotiation
Long-term value, not short-term wins.
We focus on sustainability and terms that reduce volatility over time — not just a headline rate.
- Contract terms + renewal mechanics
- Rate management strategies
- Stability levers where available
Risk management
Reduce surprises. Improve predictability.
We evaluate plan controls and governance options that help manage high-cost claims and trend drivers.
- Pooling thresholds & large-claim exposure
- Plan controls (where appropriate)
- Governance + communication guidance
Executive reporting
Decision-ready summary for leadership.
You receive a clear comparison with financial impact, trade-offs, and a recommended path.
- Options summary
- Cost + coverage implications
- Next-step implementation plan
Tip: This section is designed to feel “executive” — interactive, but not gimmicky.
Our clients value clarity over complexity, sustainability over short-term rate cuts, and transparency over surprises. This is not simply a quote comparison — it is a structured financial review.
- ✓Negotiation leverage
- ✓Predictable financial outcomes
- ✓Time to evaluate alternatives
- ✓Better employee communication planning
- ✓Confidence heading into renewal
- Small and mid-sized businesses
- Professional corporations
- Pharmacies & healthcare groups
- Growing organizations with evolving demographics
- Employers seeking cost predictability
Benchmarking & Renewal FAQs
Quick answers to common questions about renewal timing, benchmarking, and stability.
When should we start the benefits renewal process?
Ideally 90–120 days before renewal. Starting early creates options and leverage, and allows time to benchmark plan design and pricing.
Is the lowest renewal rate always the best option?
Not always. The best choice balances pricing, contract terms, risk structure, plan sustainability, and employee experience — not just the headline rate.
What does “benchmarking” include?
Benchmarking compares plan design, pricing approach, pooling structure, contract terms, and risk controls against relevant market ranges and viable alternatives.
Do you work with multiple carriers?
Yes. As an independent advisor, GMFSI can compare multiple carriers and structures to find the best strategic fit for your organization.
If your renewal is approaching within the next 4–6 months, now is the ideal time to begin benchmarking.
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Partners & Carriers We Work With
Independent access to multiple leading insurers across Canada.
Visit Assumption Life
Visit Foresters Financial
Visit Humania Assurance
Visit Canada Protection Plan
Visit Industrial Alliance
Visit Sun Life Financial
Visit Desjardins Financial Security
Visit Canada Life
Visit Empire Life
Visit RBC Insurance
Visit Equitable Life of Canada
Visit Manulife Financial
Visit Beneva Insurance
Visit Green Shield Canada
Visit Assumption Life
Visit Foresters Financial
Visit Humania Assurance
Visit Canada Protection Plan
Visit Industrial Alliance
Visit Sun Life Financial
Visit Desjardins Financial Security
Visit Canada Life
Visit Empire Life
Visit RBC Insurance
Visit Equitable Life of Canada
Visit Manulife Financial
Visit Beneva Insurance
Visit Green Shield Canada
