Small businesses in Nebraska that provide health insurance for employees could qualify for a tax credit, and a new website can help business owners calculate their potential savings.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) recently launched www.NebraskaBlueTaxCredit.com. The website features a tax calculator developed by H&R Block that helps small businesses determine how much money health care reform’s tax credit can potentially save their business. Businesses could save up to 35 percent of the employer’s premium contribution.
As part of health care reform legislation passed earlier this year, the federal government is using tax credits to encourage small, low-wage businesses to offer health insurance to their employees. Of Nebraska small businesses, 94 percent with fewer than 25 employees will be eligible for tax credits, according to a recent report from two advocacy groups (Families USA and Small Business Majority).
At www.NebraskaBlueTaxCredit.com, employers can also learn about BluePride, an affordable health plan from BCBSNE for small businesses.
“With BluePride, plus new tax credit savings, small business owners are able to offer their employees quality health insurance at a reasonable price,” said Michaela Valentin, director of government affairs at BCBSNE. “This helps owners retain their most important assets: their employees.”
BCBSNE works with professional, licensed agents statewide who can consult with small businesses regarding their health insurance needs. Visit www.NebraskaBlueTaxCredit.com and contact your insurance agent for details. Small businesses owners who don’t have an agent should contact BCBSNE’s Ward Haessler at (888) 919-BLUE (2583).