SHOP Minimum Participation Rate is Waived November 15 to December 15

Beginning on November 15, small businesses can enroll in Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) coverage without having to meet the Minimum Participation Rate (MPR) in their state or a minimum employer contribution requirement. This allows small businesses to offer a SHOP plan even if they don’t meet the required participation level. This waiver will only be available for one month, so make plans to enroll as soon as possible from November 15 to December 15.

After December 15, small businesses will need to meet their state’s MPR and an employer minimum contribution requirement to enroll in SHOP coverage. For most states, this means 70% of employees must either accept the offer of SHOP coverage or be enrolled in other qualified health coverage for a group to participate in SHOP. Employer contribution rules may also require you to contribute a specified percentage to your employee’s premium costs. The MPR Calculator is available to help employers predict if they will meet the MPR required to enroll in SHOP coverage in their state.

Employers can visit the see plans and prices feature on HealthCare.gov to find a list of all available SHOP plans.

Have questions? Contact your insurance company or a SHOP-registered agent or broker for help with SHOP coverage. For additional assistance, contact the SHOP Call Center at 1-800-706-7893 (TTY: 1-888-201-6445).

To learn more about Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs), visit this webpage. Talk to a licensed tax professional, benefits specialist, or a registered agent or broker to find out more about whether an HRA or traditional group coverage is right for your business.