Small business

Benefits that help you keep good people.

Health benefits are usually the second biggest line item after payroll, and the hardest to shop for. We compare group plans and reimbursement arrangements across carriers, handle the paperwork, and stay on as your team's point of contact.

  • Group, level funded and HRA options compared together
  • We handle enrollment paperwork and employee questions
  • Support continues after the plan starts
Small business owner reviewing group health insurance options with an advisor

You have more options than a traditional group plan

Most owners assume the only choice is a full group plan. There are usually three viable paths, and the right one depends on your headcount, budget and how much administration you want.

  • Traditional group coverage: one plan for the team, with the employer covering part of the premium.
  • Level funded plans: often cheaper for healthier groups, with potential refunds if claims come in low.
  • QSEHRA and ICHRA: you set a monthly allowance and reimburse employees tax free for plans they choose themselves.

The reimbursement route is worth a look

HRAs have changed the math for small teams. Instead of picking one plan that fits nobody perfectly, you decide what you can afford per employee per month, and each person buys the individual plan that suits them. Your cost is predictable, employees get real choice, and the money is tax advantaged for both sides. For teams with varied ages and family situations, this often beats a group plan on both cost and satisfaction.

Do not leave the tax credit on the table

Small employers who cover at least half of employee premiums, have fewer than 25 full time equivalent employees, and pay average wages under the annual threshold may qualify for the Small Business Health Care Tax Credit. It is claimed on your return and can meaningfully offset what you pay. We will flag it if your business looks eligible, and your accountant can confirm.

Questions we hear a lot

How many employees do I need to offer a group plan?

In most states you can start a small group plan with as few as one qualifying employee besides the owner, though carrier rules vary. If a group plan is not a fit, an HRA lets you offer meaningful benefits with no minimum headcount.

Am I required to offer health insurance?

Businesses with fewer than 50 full time equivalent employees are not required to offer coverage under federal rules. Most small employers offer it anyway because it is one of the strongest tools for hiring and retention.

What does this cost us as the employer?

Our service is free. For the plan itself, you decide how much of the premium to cover, and with an HRA you set the monthly allowance yourself. We will model a few scenarios so you can see the numbers before committing.

Who helps my employees when they have questions?

We do. Your team can call us directly about claims, ID cards, network questions or adding a dependent, so those questions do not land on your desk.

Let us do the comparing.

Tell us what you need and a licensed advisor will get back to you within 24 hours. It costs nothing to look.