Rules, costs & savings

Small Business Health Care Tax Credit

Up to 50% of what you contribute, back

Michael Furman
Reviewed by Michael Furman, COO — 24 years in insurance · MDRT Top of the Table
NovaVida Group licensed team · Updated August 2026

The Small Business Health Care Tax Credit can return up to half of what you pay toward employee premiums. It’s aimed at the smallest employers, and it’s claimed for two consecutive years.

Do You Qualify?

To claim the credit you generally need fewer than 25 full-time-equivalent employees, average annual wages below an IRS threshold that adjusts each year, a contribution of at least 50% of employees’ premiums, and coverage purchased through the SHOP marketplace. The credit is worth up to 50% of your contributions (35% for tax-exempt employers) for two consecutive years.

The math rewards the smallest, lower-wage employers most. A tax professional can confirm your exact credit — we’ll make sure your coverage is SHOP-eligible so you don’t miss it.

Fast Facts

  • Fewer than 25 full-time-equivalent employees
  • Average wages below the annual IRS threshold
  • You pay at least 50% of employee premiums
  • Coverage bought through the SHOP marketplace

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Quick answers

Frequently Asked

Is the tax credit the same as deducting premiums?

No — they stack. Your premium contributions are generally a deductible business expense, and if you qualify, the Small Business Health Care Tax Credit is an additional credit on top of that.