One of the most common issues we hear from businesses of all sizes, but especially small businesses, is concern over providing health insurance coverage to employees. Rising insurance premium costs, an uncertain political environment, and a shifting economic environment all play a role in this challenge.
At the Greater Mason City Chamber of Commerce, we are working to identify options for employers of all sizes, with a focus on members who are small businesses and sole proprietors. They are the ones operating with fewer HR resources and on tight budgets.
New Partnership for Independent Contractors, Sole Proprietors, and Small Businesses
The Chamber is partnering with AHG Benefits to provide a creative solution to one of the most challenging populations to cover – independent contractors, sole proprietors/self-employed individuals, and those working for small businesses.
GigCare offers plans from Cigna and Aetna at a special rate for Chamber members and their employees. These are individual arrangements, with employees or contractors working directly with Gigcare rather than through their employer.
The Executive Committee met with Dominic Bottenfield of AHG Benefits to vet this partnership. The committee agrees the plan is a strong option for member businesses and their employees for the following reasons:
- Flexibility for workers.
Employees and contractors can choose coverage that fits their individual needs, rather than being limited to a single employer-sponsored plan. - No administrative burden for the employer.
Because enrollment and billing happen directly between the worker and the provider, employers avoid paperwork, compliance requirements, and plan management. - An affordable option for small employers.
Businesses that can’t support a traditional group plan can still point their team toward viable coverage options. - Support for mixed workforces.
These plans work well for teams that include part-time staff, seasonal workers, or contractors who wouldn’t normally qualify for group benefits. - A competitive edge in recruitment and retention.
Even though it isn’t a group plan, simply offering access to trusted, vetted options helps employers signal that they care about employee well-being.
More details are available through this flyer. Click here to view the Chamber’s microsite and connect with an agent.
Coverage Options from Chamber Members
We reached out to all of the Chamber’s insurance providers to create a resource for businesses interested in exploring coverage options. For a full list of members providing insurance coverage, click here.
Edwards-Brandt Insurance
Contact Edwards-Brand Insurance
- Types of Coverage
- Large Group Policies (51+ employees)
- Small Group Policies (2-50 employees)
- Individual & Sole Proprietors
- Eligibility
- Full-time employees working 30 or more hours per week are eligible. Dependents are eligible as well. Best practice is to contribute a minimum of 50% of the employee only premium. Participation varies from carrier to carrier.
- Pricing
- Pricing with fully insured plans are the same for everyone depending on zip code of the employer. Level self-funded rates do vary depending on the health of the group. Savings up to 20% are not uncommon.
- Additional Coverage Options:
- Dental
- Vision
- Life
- Tips for Employers
- Compliance has become a major focus. Things you should be asking: Are your employees receiving all the federally required notices? Are your employees who are 65 or turning 65 getting the help they need to determine their best options?
Farm Bureau Financial Services – The Adams Agency
Contact Farm Bureau Financial Services – The Adams Agency
- Types of Coverage
- Large Group Policies (51+ employees)
- Small Group Policies (2-50 employees)
- Individual & Sole Proprietors
- Eligibility
- Minimum for group plan – 1 person must receive a W2.
- Pricing
- Varies depending on age.
- Additional Coverage Options:
- Dental
- Vision
- Life
Kristy Marquis State Farm
Contact Kristy Marquis State Farm
- Types of Coverage
- Medicare
- Eligibility
- Ages 65+
- Pricing
- Based on age & plan selected
- Additional Coverage Options:
- Life & Disability for all ages
If you are a Chamber member and would like to be added to this list, please contact President & CEO Colleen Frein.