Employee benefits provider Apex Benefits Group Inc. said Monday that it plans to expand in Indianapolis, creating up to 25 high-wage jobs by 2016.

The company, now based at Keystone in the Crossing, plans to invest $1 million to lease and equip a new facility for its headquarters at 3755 E. 82nd St. As part of the project, the company will purchase new furniture, computer hardware and software for the 7,329 square-foot office building.

The company plans to begin hiring additional sales and professional workers in Indianapolis this September. The jobs will earn an average wage of $44 an hour.    

"As health insurance costs continue to climb and the federal regulatory environment becomes more complex, employers are increasingly relying on specialists like us to help them develop and manage employee health and wellness plans," said John Gause, president of Apex Benefits.

Apex is one of a handful of central Indiana benefits brokers that has grown rapidly in recent years without acquiring other firms.

Founded in 2003, Apex has more than 25 employees and operates satellite offices in Tippecanoe and Owen counties.

The Indiana Economic Development Corp. offered Apex up to $400,000 in tax credits and up to $45,000 in training grants based on the company's job-creation plans. The city of Indianapolis plans additional incentives.