How SPC Plans Enhance Mental Health Support in the Workplace
- Javier Alvarez

- Sep 3, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 6, 2025
Navigating the complexities of employee benefits can feel overwhelming, but understanding the foundation of Supplemental Preventative Care (SPC) Plans starts with IRS Section 125. Known as "Cafeteria Plans," these tax-advantaged arrangements have been a game-changer for businesses seeking to save money while increasing employee benefits.
This month, we’re unpacking everything you need to know about Section 125 Plans, why they matter, and how they pave the way for innovative solutions like SPC Plans.
What Is an IRS Section 125 Plan?
An IRS Section 125 Plan is a benefits program that allows employees to contribute a portion of their salary toward qualified benefits on a pre-tax basis. This arrangement reduces taxable income for employees while simultaneously lowering payroll taxes for employers. It’s called a "Cafeteria Plan" because employees can pick and choose benefits that best fit their needs—much like selecting items from a menu.
Examples of qualified benefits include:
Health insurance premiums.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs).
Pre-tax contributions to SPC Plans.
By leveraging Section 125 Plans, businesses create a win-win situation: employees enjoy higher take-home pay, and employers save significantly on payroll taxes.
The Evolution of Section 125 Plans
Introduced in 1978, Section 125 Plans were designed to make employer-sponsored benefits more flexible and appealing. Over the years, these plans have evolved to accommodate a broader range of benefits, from healthcare and childcare to commuter expenses.
The modern workplace demands even more flexibility, and SPC Plans have emerged as a natural evolution of Section 125. By integrating tax savings with innovative benefits like preventive health screenings and telehealth, these plans deliver unparalleled value for both employers and employees.
Why Employers Should Care
Section 125 Plans aren’t just about compliance—they’re about opportunity. For businesses, the benefits are clear:
Payroll Tax Savings: Employers save an average of 7.65% on FICA taxes for every dollar contributed pre-tax by employees.
Increased Retention: Employees are more likely to stay with organizations that offer competitive, customizable benefits.
Enhanced Employer Branding: Companies offering modern, flexible benefits are seen as progressive and employee-focused.
Pairing Section 125 Plans with SPC Plans amplifies these benefits, ensuring maximum ROI while addressing the holistic needs of today’s workforce.
SPC Plans: The Next Step in Benefits Innovation
By building on the foundation of Section 125, SPC Plans take employer-sponsored benefits to the next level. These plans align with the evolving priorities of employees, focusing on physical, mental, and financial well-being.
Key features include:
Preventive Care: Biometric screenings, DNA-based health assessments, and personalized health coaching.
Mental Health Resources: Access to therapy, mindfulness programs, and addiction support.
Financial Wellness: Pre-tax savings and cost-effective healthcare solutions.
For employers, integrating SPC Plans means reducing claims on primary medical plans and lowering renewal costs—creating a sustainable, net-positive outcome.
Compliance and Seamless Integration
A major advantage of Section 125 Plans is their robust compliance framework. When paired with SPC Plans, businesses can rest assured they meet all IRS, ACA, and HIPAA requirements. Plus, integrating these plans into existing payroll systems is straightforward, minimizing administrative burden.
Why Now Is the Time to Act
The benefits landscape is rapidly shifting, and companies that fail to adapt risk being left behind. Section 125 Plans, paired with SPC Plans, offer a proven path to financial savings, enhanced employee benefits, and stronger workplace engagement.
By taking action now, employers can position themselves as leaders in benefits innovation, ensuring long-term success in an increasingly competitive market.
About SilverPoint Strategies
SilverPoint Strategies specializes in SUPPLEMENTAL PREVENTATIVE CARE (SPC) Plans. These plans are built on IRS Section 125 and paired with a best-fit provider to unlock significant payroll tax savings. Employers save an average of $561 per qualified employee annually, with savings realized as early as your next payroll cycle. Additionally, SPC Plans reduce claims on your existing primary medical plan, which can lower renewal costs and deliver even greater long-term savings.
As an independent consultant, SilverPoint Strategies serves as your single point of contact, working solely in your best interest to align you with the most impactful and value-driven solutions. By continuously monitoring the market, we ensure access to the latest innovations and provide seamless guidance through every step of the process. With a commitment to white-glove service and meticulous attention to detail, we help maximize ROI, enhance employee benefits, and foster healthier, more engaged workplaces. Contact us today for a free no-obligation consultation.


