Kate Spilsbury
Kate founded Mere Benefits with a simple belief: insurance doesn't have to be confusing. A fourth-generation Floridian, Kate graduated from Brigham Young University in Utah and served a 19-month mission for her church, where she learned Spanish.
Licensed to sell insurance since 2007, Kate has lived and worked throughout Northeast Florida since 2008. She spent over 8 years in the corporate insurance environment before managing a non-profit for 2 years — experiences that shaped her commitment to putting people first. She founded Mere Benefits to do things differently: real guidance, real education, and ongoing support that doesn't disappear after enrollment.
Outside of work, Kate is a wife and mother to two energetic children under the age of 10, and serves as an Adult Sunday School Teacher at her local church. She brings that same warmth and patience to every client conversation.
🌐 English & Spanish
Our Mission
To simplify health insurance so you can focus on what matters most.
Education
We believe informed clients make the best decisions. That's why we teach — not just sell.
Guidance
Every situation is different. We listen to your needs and walk you through your options step by step.
Trust
We're honest about what works and what doesn't. Our clients come back — and refer their families — because they trust us.
Why Clients Choose Mere Benefits
Deep Expertise
Not just agents — certified specialists in Medicare, Social Security, and benefits planning.
Plain English
No jargon, no confusion. We explain your options in language that actually makes sense.
Ongoing Support
We don't disappear after enrollment. Our MereCare program means ongoing support year-round.
Multi-State Licensed
We serve clients across multiple states — not just Florida. Wherever you are, we can help.
Meet Our Licensed Professionals
The people behind the guidance — dedicated to making your coverage decisions simple and stress-free.
The MereCare Team
Behind every Mere Benefits client is a dedicated support team that handles scheduling, follow-ups, carrier communications, and everything in between — year-round.
Ellen Janine Lamorena
Customer Service Specialist
🌐 English, Tagalog & Ilocano
Helps with: Medicare & ACA/Marketplace
Read Ellen's Bio ▾
Hi, I'm Ellen! What I enjoy most about working at Mere is knowing I'm making a real difference — helping people feel supported and confident in their health insurance decisions. Being part of a team that values compassion and clarity motivates me to give my best every day. I got married in 2020 and had my first baby in 2021 — my family is my greatest inspiration. In my free time, I love watching movies and sitcoms, dancing, traveling, and enjoying Asian cuisine.
Rica Mae Hojas
Customer Service Specialist
🌐 English, Spanish, Tagalog & Visaya
Helps with: Medicare, ACA/Marketplace, Group Benefits & RSSA
Read Rica's Bio ▾
Hi, I'm Rica! What I love most about working at Mere is the heart behind everything we do — making sure every client feels truly cared for and understood. With the training and support I've received, I'm committed to listening closely, offering guidance, and making the process feel simple and supportive. I find joy in the little things — good food, meaningful moments, and planning future travel adventures.
Visit Us at the Baywood Center
Located in the heart of Jacksonville, our office at the Baywood Center is easily accessible and designed to make your visit comfortable.
📍 9428 Baymeadows Rd STE 137 · Jacksonville, FL 32256 · (904) 654-5450
Licensed in 10 States
We serve clients across the country — not just Northeast Florida.
Our Jacksonville Office
We're a real, local agency — not a faceless call center. Stop by, schedule an appointment, or just say hello.
Mere Benefits9428 Baymeadows Rd. STE 137
Jacksonville, FL 32256
(904) 654-5450
info@merebenefits.com 📍 Get Directions
Frequently Asked Questions
Mere Benefits combines deep industry expertise with a genuine commitment to client education. We're not a call center — we're a local, woman-owned agency with certified specialists (RSSA®, CMIP®) who take the time to listen, explain your options in plain English, and support you year-round through our MereCare program. Our guidance is always free.
We start by understanding your unique situation — your health needs, budget, doctors, and prescriptions. Then we compare plans across multiple carriers and walk you through every option side by side, so you can make a confident, informed decision. No pressure, no sales pitch.
Call us directly at (904) 654-5450, email info@merebenefits.com, or use our online scheduling link. Consultations are always free — we'll connect you with the right team member for your needs.
We offer Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement (Medigap), Prescription Drug Plans (Part D), ACA Marketplace plans, group health insurance for businesses, life insurance, dental and vision, critical illness, and more. We also provide Social Security optimization and estate planning referrals.
Yes! Medicare is one of our core specialties. We help with Medicare Advantage, Supplement, and Part D plans. For Medicaid, we can guide you through eligibility and connect you with the right resources, including dual-eligible (Medicare + Medicaid) Special Needs Plans.
We offer Social Security optimization through our RSSA® certification, helping you determine the best claiming strategy. For broader retirement planning, we connect clients with trusted financial professionals in our network.
Yes. Under the ACA, health insurance plans cannot deny coverage or charge more due to pre-existing conditions during Open Enrollment or qualifying Special Enrollment Periods. Medicare also provides coverage regardless of health status. We'll help you find the right plan for your situation.
We provide free insurance guidance, plan comparison, enrollment assistance, year-round client support through MereCare, Social Security analysis, group benefits consulting for businesses, and educational resources including our book, newsletters, and starter kits.
We serve individuals turning 65, Medicare beneficiaries, families and individuals under 65 needing ACA Marketplace plans, small business owners looking for group benefits, and anyone navigating Social Security decisions. We're licensed in 10 states and work with clients locally and nationwide.