As the name suggests, group health insurance plans are purchased for a group. Employers and business owners most often use this type of healthcare coverage. Only employees or select members of the group that purchased the insurance can get coverage, along with their immediate family members in some cases.
Group health insurance plans come with several benefits, which is why this type of insurance is the most common in the United States. Read on to learn more about how group health insurance works and who can benefit from it.
How it Works
Group health insurance plans can only be purchased by groups, not individuals. There are many factors tailored to meet each group, so no two plans will be the same. Typically, at least 70% of the group must participate in the plan for it to remain valid.
Here’s how the process works:
- A company, business, or organization chooses the group health insurance plan that meets the size and needs of the group.
- The plan is offered to the employees or members of the group.
- They can decide to either accept or decline the group health insurance coverage that has been offered.
- While slight variations may be allowed, in general, a minimum of 70% of eligible employees or members must participate in the plan for the group coverage to become effective.
- The group splits the plan’s premiums with the members who enrolled in the plan. With more people to spread risk, the premiums tend to be lower than individual plans.
Group health insurance plans have several benefits, including extensive coverage, low premiums, and affordable deductibles.
Benefits of Group Health Insurance Plans
If someone is covered by a group health insurance policy, it typically comes from their employer. There are many advantages for both employees and employers, especially when compared to individual insurance.
Accessible Plans
In addition to lower premiums, the organization heads and group members on the plan can share the coverage costs, making everything more affordable.
Tax Benefits
Premiums paid for by employers for employees are tax-deductible. Small businesses can get a health care tax credit. And employees pay their premiums before taxable income is counted.
Open Enrollment
Unlike personal health insurance plans, which are only open for enrollment during a specific time of year, employers and organization heads can purchase group health insurance plans anytime.