OFBPA

There has been a tremendous amount of talk lately about health insurance since President Obama passed healthcare reform. If you live in Maryland and operate a small or large business or you are an individual without health insurance, YOU HAVE OPTIONS!

Individual Health Insurance Coverage:

There are programs to assist individuals in getting affordable healthcare. Individuals can make application for coverage (i.e. individual, husband&wife, parent&child(ren) or family) through various carriers such as Carefirst, United Health Care, Aetna,etc. You can have plans and rates emailed to you for comparison.

In the State of Maryland, if you are declined for health coverage, the Maryland Health Insurance Program guarantees health insurance underwritten by Carefirst. There are different payment options (i.e. lower cost) if you have a low income. Proof of residency and income is required if you are making application for reduced rates. Proof of residency is required as well if you are not making application for reduced rates.

Small/Large Employer Health Insurance Coverage:

Traditional group health insurance is available through various carriers. However, the State of Maryland has earmarked funds for the Maryland Health Insurance Partnership Program to subsidize health insurance costs for small businesss owners with 2-9 employees and have not offered group health insurance within the 12 previous months. Maryland will subsidize up to 50% of health insurance for small businesses that qualify. Along with making application to the Partnership, employers can qualify for tax credits with the IRS if they pay a portion or all of their employees health coverage.

Links:

http://www.marylandhealthinsuranceplan.state.md.us/ - Maryland Health Insurance Program
http://mhcc.maryland.gov/partnership/ - Maryland Health Insurance Partnership
http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=223666,00.html - IRS Small Business Health Care Tax Credit

Questions can be asked with no obligation for purchase of any health insurance products by individuals or employers. Just give a call, post on this blog or email: jackie@boonerangconsulting.com for more information!