Workers hit hard by rising employer health insurance costs

Health insurance premiums for workplace plans are rising sharply, placing growing financial pressure on employees and employers alike, with small businesses and their workers facing the steepest increases. The latest survey shows the average annual cost of a family coverage plan has climbed by 5 percent, now exceeding $28,000, as employers grapple with escalating healthcare expenses. Workers in smaller companies are particularly vulnerable, as these businesses often struggle to absorb rising costs without passing them directly to employees. The trend underscores a widening affordability gap for millions of Americans dependent on employer-sponsored health benefits.

Costs are spiking for the millions of Americans who rely on workplace-sponsored health insurance, according to a survey released Thursday, with small businesses and their employees being hit especially hard.  The average cost of a family plan increased by 5 percent, topping $28,000 this year, according to the annual Employer Health Benefits Survey from KFF....