Association health plans follow state and federal law and let small employers join together to buy coverage like large employers often do.
Association health plans:
- Must be a real association with a purpose other than offering health insurance.
- Can consider someone’s health condition when setting premiums.
- Provide coverage to employers with at least one employee who isn't a spouse.
- Can't offer coverage to self-employed people with no employees.
What to know when shopping for an association health plan
- Your business may need to meet certain requirements to buy an association health plan.
- Your health may affect the cost of your premium.
Where to buy an association health plan
Contact a licensed insurance company or an insurance agent or broker.
What to ask before buying
- Is the insurer licensed to offer health insurance in Washington state?
- What are the requirements to join the association or buy its health plan?
- Does it cover the same health benefits and services as small group insurance?
- Will my employees or I pay more based on age, gender or health?