Small business owners need to understand Affordable Care Act

The U.S. Small Business Administration is committed to educating small business owners about the facts surrounding the Affordable Care Act, so that you can make an informed decision about what makes sense for your business – including whether you choose to apply for a tax credit.

Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, small businesses are benefitting from improved accountability and affordability in the health insurance market.

The Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) Marketplaces began open enrollment on Oct. 1, it is important that small businesses, who offer health insurance to their employees, remember that you may also be eligible for a tax credit. This can significantly offset the cost of providing insurance, by crediting a percentage of small business owners’ premium contributions.

Through 2013, to qualify for a small business tax credit of up to 35 percent (up to 25 percent for non-profits) of your premium contributions, you must meet all of the following criteria:

• Have fewer than 25 full-time equivalent employees

• Pay average annual wages below $50,000

• And, contribute 50 percent or more toward your employees’ self-only health insurance premiums.

Beginning in January 2014, this tax credit increases to 50 percent (35 percent for non-profits) and will be available to small businesses who meet the criteria listed above and who purchase coverage through the new SHOP Marketplaces (also known as exchanges). This enhanced credit can be claimed for any two consecutive taxable years beginning in 2014 (or beginning in a later year) through the SHOP.

To determine whether your small business or tax exempt organization qualifies for the credit, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers a helpful step-by-step guide. Visit www.taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov and search for the Small Business Health Care Tax Credit. If you have additional questions about the tax credit, or need assistance completing the necessary forms, call the IRS Business Help Line at 1-800-829-4933.

Once you’ve determined that you qualify for the credit, your tax professional can help guide you through the necessary steps to claim the credit which include:

• Carrying the credit back or forward to other tax years.

• Obtaining a refundable credit if you are a tax-exempt employer. (Note this is a federal tax credit. You may also be eligible for additional health care tax credits from your state.)

• Using Form 8941, Credit for Small Employer Health Insurance Premiums, to calculate the credit. It’s also important to know that eligible small employers can claim the credit and still take a business expense deduction for the remainder of their premium contributions.

The Affordable Care Act allows small employers to offer health coverage in a way that makes sense for their business and works for their bottom line, and the SBA is committed to leveraging our resources and federal partnerships to connect you with the facts and resources you need to understand the law.

Calvin W. Goins is the SBA regional administrator. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov/healthcare or contact the Seattle District Office at 206-553-7310.