‘SHOP Early Access’ Available in Delaware, Illinois, New Jersey, Ohio, and Missouri

glitch girl ipad reformStarting in late October, small employers, agents, and brokers in Delaware, Illinois, New Jersey, Ohio, and Missouri will be able to experience some of the key new online functions of the federally-facilitated Small Business Health Options Program (FF-SHOP), according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human ServicesThe online SHOP Marketplace is expected to be available nationwide on November 15, 2014.

SHOP Early Access
During the “SHOP Early Access,” small employers in the five selected states will be able to use HealthCare.gov to take several initial steps in the enrollment process, including:

  • Establishing a Marketplace SHOP account;
  • Assigning an agent or broker to their account;
  • Completing an employer eligibility application;
  • Obtaining an eligibility determination; and
  • Uploading an employee roster.

Employers will also be able to browse plans and pricing as soon as these are available in November, allowing them to begin planning offers for coverage that begins in 2015.

Employers located in a state operating its own SHOP Exchange may be able to purchase coverage online, and must follow that state’s application and enrollment process. Please contact your Total Benefit Solutions account manager if you have any questions about the FFM-SHOP Marketplace for small groups.