CIGNA Links plan could help multi-nationals save on tax

CIGNA International Expatriate Benefits has announced a new benefits programme that may save multi-national employers up to 1% on their expatriate salary bill. Working in conjunction with Australian firm, Grand Union Corporate Health Fund, CIGNA has launched CIGNA Links, a plan aimed at trying to address the problems multi-nationals have in complying with Australian healthcare regulations. Expatriates working in Australia have 1.5% of their salary deducted in tax to support the Medicare public health service, as well as a further 1% Medicare surcharge, unless they have a private health fund in place. Multi-nationals who take out CIGNA Links will now be eligible for a 1% refund on the Medicare surcharge although the 1.5% tax is non-refundable. Sheldon Kenton, head of european sales at CIGNA, said: "CIGNA Links removes the need to double-up of insurance cover."