PDX Benefits — Smarter Benefits, Lower Payroll Tax Waste
PDX Benefits LLC is an independent employee benefits consultant serving small and mid-sized employers (2–100 employees) across Oregon, Washington, California, Michigan, and Arizona. We help businesses design smarter benefit plans, implement Section 125 pre-tax strategies, and plan renewals before Q4 pressure hits.
Licensed in 5 States
OR · WA · CA · MI · AZ
2–100 Employees
Small & mid-sized focus
Since 2023
Independent brokerage
10+ Carriers
Kaiser, Regence, UHC & more
What PDX Benefits Does
A strong benefits strategy aligns coverage, payroll, tax treatment, employee communication, and renewal timing so your business can make better decisions.
Group Health Insurance
Compare PPO, HMO, HDHP, and level-funded plans from 10+ carriers across OR, WA, CA, MI, and AZ.
Section 125 Pre-Tax Plans
Reduce FICA payroll tax by 7.65% on every dollar employees divert to pre-tax benefits.
Tax Savings Calculators
Interactive tools for HSA, FSA, Section 125, and Small Business Health Care Tax Credit estimation.
Renewal Planning
Start your 100-day renewal review in June–August instead of rushing in October.
Broker of Record Transitions
Switch brokers without changing your plan, premium, or carrier relationship.
Multi-State Coverage
Portland-Vancouver commuters, cross-state workforces, and multi-state group plans.
PDX Benefits Resources
Free guides, calculators, and tools to help you make better benefits decisions.
PDX Benefits FAQs
Last updated: August 2026
What does PDX Benefits do?
PDX Benefits is an independent employee benefits consulting firm serving small and mid-sized employers (2–100 employees) in Oregon, Washington, California, Michigan, and Arizona. Services include group health plan review, Section 125 pre-tax planning, renewal strategy, employee education, and broker transitions.
Is PDX Benefits a licensed insurance broker?
Yes. James Russell, founder of PDX Benefits LLC, holds insurance producer licenses in Oregon (#20759495), Washington (#1253051), California (#4372856), and Michigan (#1449765). His National Producer Number (NPN) is 20759495.
How much does it cost to work with PDX Benefits?
There is no additional cost to the employer for broker services — commissions are paid by the insurance carrier. PDX Benefits offers free strategy calls, savings estimates, and renewal reviews.
Can PDX Benefits replace my current broker?
Yes. A Broker of Record (BOR) letter transfers servicing authority to PDX Benefits without changing your insurance plan, premium, or employee coverage. Most carriers process BOR letters within 5–10 business days.
What states does PDX Benefits serve?
PDX Benefits is licensed in Oregon, Washington, California, Michigan, and Arizona. The primary client base is in the Portland-Vancouver metro area, with clients across all five states.
Ready to Review Your Benefits Strategy?
If your benefits, payroll deductions, or renewal timeline feel unclear, start with a practical review. PDX Benefits will help you identify what to fix now, what to prepare before renewal, and where tax savings may be available.