Benefit Advisors Network adds StoneTapert Insurance Services to its national network

Benefit Advisors Network has welcomed Sierra Madre, California-based StoneTapert Insurance Services as its newest member firm. The move gives StoneTapert access to BAN’s resources and peer network while keeping the firm independently owned, a combination both sides say should strengthen client service.

Why it matters: - StoneTapert Insurance Services gains access to a national network of advisory firms, which can broaden resources for employers it serves across the U.S., especially in Southern California. - The addition supports StoneTapert’s goal of staying independent while expanding the tools, insight and collaboration available to clients. - BAN adds a third-generation benefits firm with more than 65 years of experience in employee benefits consulting.

What happened: - Benefit Advisors Network announced that StoneTapert Insurance Services has joined BAN as a member firm. - StoneTapert is based in Sierra Madre, California. - The firm serves employers nationwide and focuses primarily on Southern California. - StoneTapert works with privately held businesses, nonprofits and organizations across a range of industries.

The details: - StoneTapert is a third-generation, privately held employee benefits consulting firm. - The firm designs, manages and communicates benefits programs for employers. - StoneTapert’s approach centers on “High-Performing Benefits,” which combines proactive service, data-informed decisions, clear employee communication and hands-on account management. - As a BAN member, StoneTapert will have access to the network’s collective resources, industry expertise, proprietary tools and collaborative peer community. - StoneTapert will keep its independent ownership and client-focused model. - Chuck Tapert, president and CEO of StoneTapert Insurance Services, said the partnership lets the firm remain independent while expanding resources for clients. - Tapert said StoneTapert clients rely on the firm for proactive service, clear guidance and follow-through throughout the year. - LaJoi McClendon, chief operating officer of StoneTapert Insurance Services, said BAN membership will help the team stay proactive on plan design, employee engagement, compliance, technology and client experience. - StoneTapert provides benefits consulting and plan design, renewal strategy, compliance support, HR resources, individual insurance solutions and Medicare guidance. - StoneTapert also says its services are built to help employers support people, manage costs and keep benefits running smoothly year-round.

Between the lines: - The partnership underscores a broader trend in benefits consulting: independent firms are looking for scale, technology and compliance support without giving up local control. - BAN appears to be using selective membership to strengthen collaboration among firms that share an independent, relationship-driven model. - Perry Braun, president and CEO of BAN, said StoneTapert fits the network’s mission and values and will add expertise and perspective to the membership.

What's next: - StoneTapert will begin using BAN’s shared resources, compliance expertise, technology insights and peer collaboration as part of its membership. - BAN will continue recruiting selectively, with limited membership intended to preserve close collaboration among member firms. - Companies interested in joining BAN can contact Steve Yarcusko at syarcusko@benefitadvisorsnetwork.com. - More information is available on Benefit Advisors Network's website and on LinkedIn.

The bottom line: - BAN is adding an established, family-owned benefits firm that wants more scale without sacrificing independence.