Small businesses can pool buying power

The health care law has been in full effect for months, but there continues to be tremendous confusion surrounding the new marketplaces the law created, especially for small-business owners. What many Illinois entrepreneurs don't know is the small business marketplace, Get Covered Illinois, is open year round, and they can check out their options any time.

The small business marketplace lets entrepreneurs join together, giving them the kind of purchasing clout large companies have. What's more, it enables employers to compare different plan types and find one that fits their needs. Small employers who do offer coverage through the marketplace may be eligible for a tax credit of up to 50 percent of their premium costs.

By letting entrepreneurs pool their buying power, this new option can help lower costs while offering more choices. There are a number of resources available to help Illinois entrepreneurs learn about Get Covered Illinois so they can take advantage of it when it's time for them to enroll in a new plan. For more information or to contact a marketplace expert, visit our Health Coverage Guide: http://healthcoverageguide.org.

Mary Timmel

Midwest Outreach Manager

Small Business Majority