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Thompson Hine LLP, a full-service business law firm with approximately 400 lawyers in 11 offices, was ranked number 1 in the category “Most innovative North American law firms: New working models” by The Financial Times and was 1 of 7 firms shortlisted for The American Lawyer’s inaugural Legal Services Innovation Award. The firm has been recognized by the National Law Journal as a Legal Technology Trailblazer and featured by Bloomberg for its innovative service delivery models, which drive accuracy and predictability. The firm’s commitment to innovation is embodied in Thompson Hine SmartPaTHTM – a smarter way to work – predictable, efficient and aligned with client goals. For more information, please visit ThompsonHine.com and ThompsonHine.com/SmartPaTH.

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Date: Thursday, April 2, 2026 Time: 12:30 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. ET Location: Virtual Contact: Diane Weber, <a href="mailto:Diane.Weber@ThompsonHine.com?subject=2026 Brown Bag Benefits: Voluntary Benefits, Mandatory Rules 4.2.2026">Diane.Weber@ThompsonHine.com</a>

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A webinar series presented by Thompson Hine LLP

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Voluntary Benefits, Mandatory Rules: When “Extras” Trigger ERISA Obligations

Join us for the next session in our 2026 Brown Bag Benefits webinar series — quick and concise lunchtime programs designed to deliver timely updates on employee benefits matters without taking up too much space on your calendar. Each 30-minute session provides practical insights on emerging legal developments and regulatory trends impacting plan sponsors and benefit professionals. Join us for the full series or just those of interest to you.

Voluntary benefits—such as critical illness, hospital indemnity, and accident insurance—have evolved from nice-to-have perks to sought-after benefits. However, offering these benefits can raise ERISA questions that employers may not have considered. In this session, Kim Wilcoxon and Nate Ingraham will discuss when voluntary benefits may be subject to ERISA, the pros and cons of ERISA status, related fiduciary and compliance considerations, and recent litigation trends involving voluntary benefits.