Washington Group Health Insurance & Small Business Health Plans | Best Small Business Health Insurance in Washington, WA

For nearly 30 years, Taylor Benefits Insurance Agency has been servicing the nation’s businesses by providing them with low-cost health insurance and employee benefit options. Offering a flexible, low-cost group plan will help your Washington company attract and maintain experienced employees.

To receive the best options and the lowest premiums and rates, give us a call, and we will even provide you with a FREE quote. We will evaluate how many employees you have in your company and advice accordingly.

Washington Group Health Insurance & Employee Benefit Plans

Our experienced and licensed insurance brokers will discuss all your health insurance and employee benefit plans before giving you an estimate. During the creation of your health plan, we will make sure that it remains in compliance with the requirements of the Affordable Care Act as well as all local, state and federal laws. This will keep your company from facing government penalties. It also qualifies your business for tax breaks.

Throughout the duration of the term of your plan, we conduct yearly audits to make any necessary adjustments while assuring you continue to meet the standards of the healthcare act.

Health Insurance and Benefits Options to Add to Your Group Plan

  • Group Benefit Plans- health, dental & vision
  • Pension Plans and Retirement Plans
  • Short and long-term disability insurance
  • 401K Plans
  • Section 125 Cafeteria
  • HSA
  • FSA
  • HMO
  • PPO
  • Life Insurance
  • Long-Term Care
  • Worker’s Compensation
  • ACA Compliance
  • Washington large group health insurance

Our insurance agents are able to modify your plan and make adjustments whenever you find it necessary. They’ll even negotiate the costs of your plan as well as your premiums with the insurance carriers to find you the lowest possible prices. We want to make sure that our clients and their employees remain happy with their policies. This will only help your business grow and rise above your competition in Washington state.

Washington Large Group Health Insurance Plans

While most large employers provided health insurance to their workforce even before the ACA, the legislation created certain entitlements that standardized insurance plans’ coverage. It also defines an affordable health plan (currently, workers can’t be required to pay more than 9.61 percent of their gross income toward the cost of their premium for individual coverage). In addition, employers’ plans must pay sixty percent of typical expenses for patient care.

In Washington, on average, employers pay 85 percent of the cost of coverage for their employees, and workers are paying a low amount (compared to other states) as a percent of median income. In addition, Washington state has a detailed list of services that insurers must provide in addition to the ACA essential benefits. The requirements vary according to plan size but include chemotherapy medications, chemical dependency treatment, colorectal exams, contraceptive services, diabetes management, congenital abnormalities, and more.

Washington Small Business Health Insurance Plans

Small businesses which choose to provide health insurance for their employees must also provide a plan that includes the ten essential components, but keep in mind that offering insurance is not required for companies with fewer than fifty full-time workers (or full-time equivalent employees.)

Small businesses that offer health insurance coverage may be eligible for tax credits and assistance in accessing qualified plans. Taylor Benefits Insurance can help you evaluate your choices and look at small business health insurance to provide coverage while holding down costs.

Relevant Statistics

  • Over 90% of employers in Washington offer group health insurance to their employees.
  • The average deductible for group health insurance plans in Washington is $1,800.
  • More than 80% of Washington residents who have employer-sponsored group health insurance are satisfied with their coverage.
  • Approximately 70% of small businesses in Washington provide group health insurance options to their employees.
  • Group health insurance premiums in Washington have increased by an average of 5% annually over the past five years.

General Facts

  • Washington Group Health Insurance refers to health insurance plans offered to groups of people in the state of Washington.
  • These group health insurance plans typically provide coverage for a wide range of medical services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription medications.
  • Employers often offer group health insurance as part of their employee benefits package in Washington.
  • Group health insurance plans in Washington may have different coverage options, such as HMOs (Health Maintenance Organizations) or PPOs (Preferred Provider Organizations).
  • Group health insurance premiums are usually shared between the employer and employees, with each party contributing a portion towards the cost of the insurance.

Washington Small Business Health Insurance Plans and Employee Benefit Packages

In Washington, employees may be eligible for paid family and medical leave of up to eighteen weeks per year. The payment amount depends on the employee’s pay relative to state averages. Workers are also eligible for paid sick leave, with a minimum accrual of one hour for every forty hours worked. The law does not cover some exempt professional employees.

More than half of workers in the state have employer-provided dental care coverage, and over 40 percent receive vision insurance. In addition, just over half have access to an Employee Assistance Program.

How does the premium tax credit work for health insurance?

The premium tax credit is a subsidy the government provides to help lower-income individuals and families afford health insurance premiums. It is based on income and household size, and can be applied in advance to reduce monthly premium costs or claimed on tax returns. 

 

How much does health insurance cost per month in Washington state?

Individual plans can range from $420 to $503 per month, with silver plans being the most common option for balancing affordability and coverage.

 

How can we improve access to affordable health care, achieve better health outcomes, and reduce health disparities in our communities?

We can improve access to affordable health care by expanding Medicaid, increasing funding for community health centers, and implementing telehealth services. To achieve better health outcomes, we should focus on preventive care, address social determinants of health, and promote healthy lifestyle choices. Reducing health disparities requires addressing systemic inequalities, increasing health education, and ensuring culturally competent care for all individuals.  

 

How much do employee benefits cost on average?

Employee benefits can cost employers 30-40% of an employee’s salary. This can vary depending on the type of benefits offered, the size of the company, and the industry. Some common benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and bonuses. Overall, providing employee benefits is an important investment for companies to attract and retain top talent. 

 

Why are health costs soaring in Washington state?

Health costs are soaring in Washington state due to rising prescription drug prices, increasing demand for healthcare services, a shortage of healthcare providers, and the high cost of medical technology and equipment. Additionally, the aging population and prevalence of chronic diseases are driving up healthcare costs in the state. 

 

Do I need long-term disability coverage in Washington if I have health insurance?

Long-term disability coverage is important because it provides income replacement if you cannot work due to a disability. Health insurance only covers medical expenses, not lost income. Both types of coverage can provide comprehensive protection in case of a disability. 

Do I need short-term disability coverage in Washington if I have health insurance?

Short-term disability coverage provides income replacement if you cannot work due to a non-work-related injury or illness. Health insurance covers medical expenses but does not provide income replacement. Having short-term disability coverage in Washington can help protect your finances if you are unable to work for some time. 

Does Washington state have free health insurance?

Washington state does not offer free health insurance. Still, programs like Medicaid and the Washington Health Benefit Exchange provide low-cost or subsidized health insurance options for eligible individuals and families. These programs help make health insurance more affordable for those who qualify based on income and other factors. 

Are employers required to offer group medical insurance in Washington?

Employers in Washington are not required to offer group medical insurance to their employees. However, if they choose to offer it, they must comply with state regulations regarding coverage and benefits. Employers with 50 or more employees may be subject to the Affordable Care Act’s employer mandate to provide health insurance. 

What are my rights as an employee in Washington state?

In Washington State, employees have the right to a safe workplace, fair wages, protection against discrimination and harassment, access to medical leave, and the right to organize and bargain collectively. They also have the right to file complaints with the Department of Labor & Industries if their rights are violated. 

How are employers solving for health benefits without group plans?

Employers are considering alternative solutions such as health reimbursement arrangements (HRAs), health savings accounts (HSAs), and individual health insurance plans. They may also offer wellness programs, telemedicine services, and other health-related benefits to support their employees’ well-being. 

What is the best medical insurance in Washington state?

The best medical insurance in Washington state can vary depending on individual needs and preferences. Some top options are Premera Blue Cross, Kaiser Permanente, Regence BlueShield, and Group Health Cooperative. It is recommended to compare coverage, costs, provider networks, and customer satisfaction ratings to determine the best fit for your specific healthcare needs. 

How many employees do you need to qualify for group health insurance?

The number of employees required to qualify for group health insurance varies depending on the insurance provider and the type of plan. Generally, most insurance providers require a minimum of 2-50 employees to qualify for group health insurance. Some providers may have different requirements, so checking with the specific insurance company for their eligibility criteria is best. 

What should you look for when shopping for the best health insurance plan in Washington?

When shopping for the best health insurance plan in Washington, consider coverage options, network of providers, premiums, deductibles, copayments, out-of-pocket costs, prescription drug coverage, and customer reviews. Choosing a plan that meets your healthcare needs and budget is important. 

Do medicare advantage plans cover dental services?

Some Medicare Advantage plans offer coverage for dental services such as cleanings, exams, fillings, and extractions. However, coverage can vary depending on the specific plan, so it’s important to review the details of each plan to understand what dental services are included. Additional standalone dental plans may also be available for purchase to supplement coverage. 

How do I enroll in Washington individual and family insurance?

To enroll in Washington individual and family insurance, visit the Washington Healthplanfinder website and create an account. You can then compare plans, see if you qualify for financial assistance, and enroll in a plan that meets your needs. You can also enroll over the phone by calling the Washington Health Benefit Exchange customer support line. 

How do I compare medicare plans?

To compare Medicare plans, you should consider coverage options, costs (premiums, deductibles, copayments), network of doctors and hospitals, prescription drug coverage, and quality ratings. You can use the Medicare Plan Finder tool on the official Medicare website to compare plans based on your specific needs and preferences. Additionally, you can contact Medicare directly or speak with a licensed insurance agent for personalized assistance in comparing plans. 

What are the key benefits of Washington Group Health Insurance for small businesses?

  • Cost savings: Washington Group Health Insurance offers competitive rates and discounts for small businesses, helping them save on healthcare expenses.
  • Comprehensive coverage options: Small businesses can choose from various options tailored to their specific needs, including medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage.
  • Employee retention and recruitment: Health insurance through Washington Group can help small businesses attract and retain top talent, as employees value access to quality healthcare benefits.
  • Tax advantages: Small businesses may be eligible for tax deductions and credits when offering health insurance to their employees through Washington Group, helping them save money on their overall tax bill.
  • Compliance assistance: Washington Group provides small businesses with guidance and support to comply with all relevant healthcare laws and regulations, reducing the risk of costly penalties.
  • Employee wellness programs: Washington Group offers wellness programs and resources to help small businesses promote a healthy workforce, which can lead to increased productivity and reduced healthcare costs in the long run.

 

How does Washington Group Health Insurance support mental health services?

Washington Group Health Insurance supports mental health services by providing coverage for counseling, therapy, and medication. It may also offer resources such as mental health hotlines, online therapy platforms, and access to mental health professionals. Additionally, Washington Group Health Insurance may partner with mental health providers to ensure their members can access quality care.

Frequently Asked Questions About Health Insurance And Employee Benefit Plans in Washington State

Here are some answers to common concerns regarding health insurance plans in Washington:

In Washington, What Is Considered a Large Group for Health Insurance Plans?

A large group health insurance plan is an insurance plan for businesses with more than 50 employees in most states. There is no legal maximum threshold for companies to be eligible for large group insurance; as long as a company has more than 50 employees, it can qualify for large group insurance.

While group plans are easy to work with, they provide the same health benefits for all employees. However, employers need not worry about subsidized coverage if one of their employees has unique requirements.

How Do Small Business Group Health Insurance Plans work in Washington?

When an employer purchases a small group health insurance, eligible employees can enroll if they choose to participate. As long as a business has 50 or fewer employees, they qualify for small-group health insurance. Small group health insurance works by providing all participating members with the same health insurance benefits. The health care coverage would depend on the employer’s plan and health insurance company and the rates and premiums. Whether small or large, most group insurance requires at least a 70% participation rate from group members.

In Washington, What is Normally Included in the Benefits Package?

What an employee gets in their employee benefits package largely depends on their company. However, some standard benefits are commonly offered to employees in their benefits packages, such as medical insurance, paid time off, life insurance, dental insurance, retirement, flexible savings account, paid vacations, and sick leave. Others may include paid holidays, gym membership, and even educational assistance. While these benefits are the more common, some companies may provide additional benefits. 

How Much Do Employee Benefits Cost on Average?

The cost of employee benefits packages generally depends on what is included and what the company offers. For example, a company offering additional benefits like pet insurance and gym membership asides from the standard benefits like health insurance would have to pay more than one that offers only the common benefits. However, on average, it is estimated that employee benefits could amount to 31% of an employee’s total compensation, while the remaining 69% comprises wages.

To arrive at the cost of an employee benefits package, you’ll need to calculate the cost of each benefit you want to include. 

Written by Todd Taylor

Todd Taylor

Todd Taylor oversees most of the marketing and client administration for the agency with help of an incredible team. Todd is a seasoned benefits insurance broker with over 35 years of industry experience. As the Founder and CEO of Taylor Benefits Insurance Agency, Inc., he provides strategic consultations and high-quality support to ensure his clients’ competitive position in the market.



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