ResourcesSmall Business Health Care Hub

Five steps to choosing the right health insurance for your business

Whether you're offering insurance coverage for the first time or looking for a refresher on the basics, these steps can help you understand the key parts of the process.

STEP ONE

Define your business goals for offering health insurance

with Molly Chidester, Executive Director and Michelle Basta, Vice President

Learn about the many reasons a business may choose to offer health insurance, including regulatory requirements, business strategy and company values.

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STEP TWO

Assess the needs and preferences of your employees

with Bea Capistrant, Vice President and Evan Cohen, Principal

Discover what you need to know about your employees to make informed health care decisions and how to ensure your health plan satisfies their needs and preferences.

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Before you evaluate any plans, get your employees' input. This one-page survey covers coverage priorities, preferred doctors, prescription needs, and family coverage — and helps ensure your plan reflects what your team actually needs.

Download the Employee Needs Survey

STEP THREE

Understand key health plan features

with Michelle Basta, Vice President and Brandon Batiste, Vice President

Explore all the key features of health insurance plans that may impact the overall cost, customizability and value of your health plan.

STEP FOUR

Develop a health insurance budget

with Brandon Batiste, Vice President and Aleks Golde, Associate

Learn how health insurance is often the second-largest employee-related expense after salaries and wages, making it crucial for businesses to master their budgeting strategy. Steps include:

  • Evaluate and forecast your workforce dynamics
  • Explore tax deductions and credits
  • Decide how much of the cost your business will cover

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STEP FIVE

Find the right advisor to get started

with Aleks Golde, Associate and Evan Cohen, Principal

Discover how finding the right advisor to help you select and administer your health insurance benefits can help you make the best choice for your business and employees.

  • Agents
  • Brokers
  • Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs)
  • Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP)

Ready to find an advisor? Our tool walks you through the four types.

Find the right advisor type for your business

Not ready to reach out yet? Download: 10 Questions to Ask Your Health Insurance Advisor

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You’ve covered the basics — here’s your next step

Most businesses tackle funding options next. Understanding how you’ll pay for coverage shapes every other decision — from the plans you can afford to how much financial risk your business can take on.

Explore your funding options