The Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) is adding some new features in 2018

Changes to SHOP are Here

View in browser What to Know Before You Enroll The Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) is adding some new features in 2018 that will impact how you enroll in, and manage, your health and/or dental coverage that starts on or after January 1, 2018. What’s changing with SHOP in 2018 Instead of using HealthCare.gov, you will work with an insurance company or with a SHOP-registered agent or broker to enroll in a plan, pay your premiums, and manage your coverage. If you’re enrolling in SHOP insurance for the first time or have experienced a gap in coverage, you’ll use HealthCare.gov to verify your eligibility for SHOP insurance. What’s staying the same with SHOP in 2018 SHOP is open for small businesses. Small businesses with between 1-50 employees are generally eligible for SHOP. Use the eligibility determination tool to see if your business qualifies. Offer SHOP coverage to save money. Offering SHOP coverage is generally the only way for small businesses to receive the Small Business Health Care Tax Credit. Get information easily. You can still use HealthCare.gov to confirm that your business is eligible for SHOP, browse plans and prices, and find useful resources for enrolling in coverage. Already have SHOP insurance? You won’t be affected by the changes until it’s time to renew your SHOP insurance. Remember, your SHOP plan year lasts 12 months from the start date, so your 2017 coverage may continue into 2018. As long as your current coverage is active, you will continue to use HealthCare.gov until it’s time to renew. Questions? Contact the SHOP Call Center at 1-800-706-7893 (TTY: 711) weekdays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern Time. Thank you, The SHOP Team