The fastest-growing segment of the insurance industry is voluntary benefits -- life, disability and other coverages offered at group rates, but with no employer contribution.  In 2003, worksite sales of insurance products totaled $4.3 billion, up 120 percent in six years, according to the Kansas City Business Journal.  One researcher says two-thirds of all employers offer at least one voluntary benefit, which they acknowledge are an effective means of attracting and retaining workers without spending much.

August 4, 2004