The Department of Health and Human Services announced today that it is further delaying—for one year—the ability of small businesses to go online through the federal exchange to purchase health insurance through the Affordable Care Act’s Small Business Health Insurance Options Program (SHOP). Instead, until November 2014, small businesses will have to rely on alternative buying procedures, including purchasing coverage directly through an insurer, and/or via paper applications.
Agents and brokers are likely to remain small business’ preferred method for obtaining health insurance.
The delay applies to federally facilitated exchange SHOP purchasing only. Online access through state-run exchanges is not affected by this announcement.
Agents and brokers will enroll small employers under the usual process, HHS said. However, if small employers want to claim the Small Business Tax Credit, they will have to choose a Qualified Health Plan (QHP) listed on the carrier’s website, the agency explained.
“Agents and brokers remain a valuable resource for small businesses in need of health insurance,” said NAIFA President John Nichols. “As the implementation of the health care law remains in flux, advisors are more important than ever and stand ready to help consumers understand and adjust to the changes.”
