Health Benefits
Health benefits for startups: your main options
Group coverage, QSEHRAs, and ICHRAs in plain language.
Denta team · · 2 min read
Startups can offer group health insurance or, when eligible, use a health reimbursement arrangement to help employees buy individual coverage. The right path depends on team size, location, budget, and how much plan choice you want employees to have.
Three common routes
| Route | Basic idea | Key check |
|---|---|---|
| Group coverage | Employer offers a medical plan | Local plans, contributions, and enrollment |
| QSEHRA | Eligible small employer reimburses qualified expenses | Employer size and no group plan |
| ICHRA | Employer reimburses qualified expenses with individual coverage | Employee classes and individual coverage rules |
HealthCare.gov describes QSEHRA eligibility and ICHRA basics. Eligible small employers may also consider SHOP coverage.
Make the first decision simple
Estimate your annual employer budget and map where employees live. Ask a licensed broker or benefits specialist to compare actual group quotes with a compliant reimbursement design. A QSEHRA or ICHRA affects how employees buy coverage and may affect Marketplace premium tax credits, so model employee outcomes as well as employer cost. HealthCare.gov explains the QSEHRA and tax-credit interaction.
Dental can be a separate benefit decision. Read whether you can offer dental without medical insurance after you choose your medical path.