Georgia Access provides the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) for small businesses with up to 50 employees. SHOP plans are small group plans certified by Georgia Access.
Benefit – When businesses provide SHOP plans to their employees, they may be eligible for the federal Small Business Health Care Tax Credit for up to two consecutive years.
Employer eligibility for SHOP
To be eligible to offer SHOP plans, your business or organization must have a valid Employer Identification Number (EIN) and:
- Have up to 50 full-time equivalent (FTE) employees.
- Offer coverage to all FTE employees.
- Enroll at least 70% of eligible FTE employees who are offered insurance and are not otherwise covered.
- Have an office and/or employee worksite in Georgia.
Employer eligibility for the Federal Small Business Health Care Tax Credit
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers the Small Business Health Care Tax Credit to small businesses with less than 25 FTEs that meet certain requirements. Visit the IRS website or contact a tax professional to learn more.
If you want to claim the Small Business Health Care Tax Credit, you must complete and submit the Georgia Access SHOP Application to receive an eligibility determination from Georgia Access to file with the IRS.