Texas Business Owner Guide
Healthcare Options for Your Business & Employees
(Powered by Tsunami Health)
As a Texas employer, offering competitive health benefits isn’t just a perk—it’s a smart business strategy. Whether you’re a small shop owner in Austin or running a growing company in Dallas, the right health benefits can help you attract and retain talent, reduce absenteeism, and boost morale.
Who Needs This Guide?
You own a Texas-based business and want to provide health benefits.
You’re unsure of your legal obligations under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
You’re seeking cost-saving strategies to offer coverage without breaking the bank.
Healthcare Coverage Options in Texas
1. Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP)
Eligibility: Businesses with 1–50 full-time employees.
Coverage: ACA-compliant plans through Healthcare.gov/small-businesses.
Perks: Access to group pricing and potential eligibility for tax credits2️⃣ Business Owner-Faci….
2. Group Health Insurance Plans
Offered through private carriers, these traditional plans often provide:
Lower rates due to group pooling.
Broad provider networks.
Flexibility in plan design.
Ideal for employers who want a turnkey benefits package without navigating government programs2️⃣ Business Owner-Faci….
3. Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs)
HRAs are IRS-approved tools that let employers reimburse employees tax-free for health expenses, including premiums.
Qualified Small Employer HRA (QSEHRA) – For employers with <50 employees.
Individual Coverage HRA (ICHRA) – Flexible design for businesses of any size.
These solutions give employees freedom to choose their own ACA-compliant plans2️⃣ Business Owner-Faci….
4. Self-Funded or Level-Funded Plans
Businesses take on some or all financial risk of employee health claims:
Self-funded: Pay claims as they occur—high risk, high potential reward.
Level-funded: Fixed monthly payment + claims buffer—moderate risk and savings.
These work well for larger or financially stable Texas businesses looking to control costs2️⃣ Business Owner-Faci….
Legal Requirements for Texas Employers
✔ 50+ Full-Time Equivalent Employees?
You’re subject to the ACA’s Employer Mandate and must offer coverage or face penalties.
✔ Under 50 Employees?
You’re not required to offer coverage, but if you do, you may qualify for:
Small Business Health Care Tax Credit – Worth up to 50% of premium costs2️⃣ Business Owner-Faci….
Cost-Saving Strategies
💡 Wellness Programs
Encourage healthy habits, reduce claims, and qualify for insurance discounts.
💡 Telehealth & Supplemental Benefits
Affordable add-ons like accident, dental, or critical illness coverage show employees you care while managing overall costs.
💡 Tsunami Health ICHRA & Group Strategy Consulting
Our advisors can help you build a custom plan that matches your goals and budget—from ACA-compliant individual reimbursements to full-service group plans.
Where to Get Help
Tsunami Health Advisors – Your partner in building a better health strategy.
➤ Schedule a consultation at tsunamihealth.com/appTexas ACA Marketplace – Visit healthcare.gov for plan comparisons.
IRS Small Business Resources – For compliance and credit guidelines.
TsunamiHealth.com/Get-Help – Search FAQs or submit a help request anytime.
✅ Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you want to build a lean HRA-based model or a robust benefits package with vision, dental, and wellness perks, Tsunami Health can help.
📞 Call our Texas-based reception desk at 801-382-8576 (M–F, 10 AM to 3 PM)
📅 Or schedule a discovery session with a Tsunami Advisor at tsunamihealth.com/app
Let’s build a healthier future for your Texas business.
