The delay of the employer mandate under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) means employers will not be required to provide group coverage for their employees until January 1, 2015.
But, the mandate is going to happen, and we recommend employers begin to think — and plan ahead — for that eventuality. In fact, under ACA, employers must notify their employees about their health insurance options by October 1, 2013 (read more). That date has not been delayed.
How can a licensed broker help a company choose Group Health Insurance for its employees?
A broker can:
- Assist employers in plan selection, often making it possible for a company to offer one or more plans to employees
- Help employers count employees to determine eligibility to participate in the exchange (the exchange for small businesses will open in 2014)
- Review different plan levels and associated costs
- Discuss access to provider networks — more complicated for multi-state employers
- Help with the enrollment process, including new life change events
- Assist with compliance issues: employer notices to employees, penalties, and other complex and cumbersome business matters
If you are a business owner, or are responsible for employee health plans at your company, give our office a call. We can help you select the coverage that is right for you.
