Rippling has launched a new benefits administration programme that connects its platform directly with insurance carriers Guardian, MetLife and Unum in an effort to reduce manual data handling and improve accuracy in employee benefits management.
The new Preferred Carrier Program enables automated data exchange between Rippling and participating carriers, covering areas including employee eligibility, enrolment and coverage information. The companies said the initiative is designed to address common challenges caused by manual data transfers, including reconciliation errors and administrative delays.
Unlike traditional carrier connections built independently by software providers, Rippling said each integration under the programme is developed jointly with the participating insurer, with shared service standards and escalation processes for resolving data discrepancies.
Jessica Slabaugh, Head of Benefits Marketplace Partnerships at Rippling, said the programme aims to create a more connected benefits administration experience for employers and employees.
“Customers using Preferred Carriers benefit from partnerships that are co-developed, held to shared operating standards, and designed to continuously deliver new capabilities over time.”
The initial phase of the programme focuses on direct enrolment integrations and operational standards between Rippling and the three carriers. Future developments are expected to expand automation across additional parts of the benefits lifecycle, including plan setup, coverage approvals and ongoing administration.
Anna Roberts, Head of Digital Strategy and Offerings at Guardian, said the partnership would help simplify benefits management for employers and brokers.
“By working closely together, we’re using real-time data exchange to simplify setup and management for employers and brokers, while supporting employee well-being by making benefits easier to access and use.”
MetLife said the collaboration would help small and mid-sized businesses reduce administrative friction when managing employee benefits.
Bradd Chignoli, Head of Regional Business at MetLife, said:
“Collaborations like Rippling’s Preferred Carrier partnership help reduce friction and create more connected experiences for employees, making it easier for employers and brokers to support their people while staying focused on running and growing their business.”
Unum said the direct API connectivity model would improve data accuracy and reduce operational rework.
Ray Russell, AVP of Platform Integration at Unum, said:
“That structure dramatically improves data accuracy, reduces rework, and gives us confidence that eligibility and enrollment changes are flowing correctly every time.”
New Rippling customers implementing benefits with Guardian, MetLife or Unum will be eligible to use the direct connections, while existing customers will transition through a phased migration process over the next 12 months.
The launch reflects broader efforts across the insurance and employee benefits sectors to modernise administration through API connectivity and automation, reducing reliance on manual processes while improving the flow of information between employers, brokers, technology platforms and carriers.
