SHOP Marketplace
Enrollment Guide
The Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) marketplace helps businesses with 1-50 employees find affordable group health coverage — and qualify for tax credits worth up to 50% of premium contributions.
What Is the SHOP Marketplace?
The SHOP marketplace is a part of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) designed specifically for small businesses. It allows employers to offer qualified health plans to their employees, with the added benefit of potential tax credits for eligible businesses.
Who Can Use SHOP?
Businesses with 1-50 full-time equivalent employees. In most states, you can enroll at any time of year — no waiting for open enrollment.
Tax Credit Eligibility
Businesses with fewer than 25 employees and average wages under $56K may qualify for up to 50% tax credits on premium contributions.
Key Benefits of Using SHOP:
How to Enroll in SHOP
Follow these steps to get your business enrolled in a SHOP health plan.
Create an Account
Register your business on the SHOP marketplace with your EIN and business details.
Select a Plan
Browse qualified health plans and choose the coverage level that fits your team.
Set Contribution
Decide how much of the premium you will pay for each employee (minimum 50% for tax credits).
Enroll Employees
Add your employees, collect their enrollment choices, and activate coverage.
Manage Coverage
Use the SHOP portal for billing, employee changes, and annual renewals.
DIY on SHOP vs. Using a Broker
Using a broker costs you nothing extra — but gives you everything you need to make the right choice for your team.
| Feature | DIY on SHOP | With FLC Broker |
|---|---|---|
| Plan comparison across 15+ carriers | ||
| Expert guidance on tax credits & deductions | ||
| Help with SHOP marketplace enrollment | Limited | |
| Year-round claims & billing support | ||
| Renewal negotiation & rate reviews | ||
| Compliance & ACA reporting assistance | ||
| Dental, vision, life & disability bundling | Separate signups | |
| No additional cost to your business | Your time |
Best part: Our services are free to your business — we're compensated by the insurance carriers, not you.
Need Help with SHOP Enrollment?
Our brokers handle the entire process for you. Fill out the form to get started.
Serving Businesses Across the Nation
FLC Insurance Services and our licensed insurance agents help small and mid-sized businesses find the right group health coverage at an affordable price. We're directly licensed in 24 states and serve the rest of the country through our affiliate agent network.