Small employers may use the SHOP exchange marketplace to offer health plan coverage to their employees.
While the Exchange website www.healthcare.gov is not yet operational for employers to purchase health coverage, employers may use “direct enrollment” through an agent, broker or insurance company. Information about SHOP coverage for small employers is also available by calling 1-800-706-7893.
The agent, broker or insurance company should be able to help a small employer select a qualified health plan and provide information about cost and coverage. They can process actual SHOP plan enrollment.
When an employer enrolls in SHOP coverage, an employee roster will have to be completed. This roster provides information about each employee who will be offered coverage. Notice to the employee will also have to be provided.
Enrollment in SHOP is on a rolling monthly basis. The deadline to enroll is the 15th of the month for coverage to be effective the first of the following month.
An employer offering SHOP coverage must have a SHOP eligibility determination. To apply for a determination, an employer can go to the agent, broker or insurance company and have them process and mail in a paper application, or the application may be completed over the telephone through the SHOP employee call center. The application can also be accessed directly from www.healthcare.gov. Information for mailing the completed form is provided. A determination of SHOP eligibility will be provided within 3-5 days after submission of a completed application.
For more information on SHOP coverage for small employers, visit www.healthcare.gov and click on “Small Businesses.”
