As a small business owner, you always have to strike a balance. While you know that a competitive benefit package is important to attract and retain talent, you also must work within a tight budget, and often, with limited resources. You have valid concerns about the expense and the long-term sustainability of providing your employees with health insurance.

What should you do when health insurance costs seem unrealistic and outside of your budget?

While some small business owners may choose to pay the full health insurance premium for their employees, most expect employees to pay for part of the monthly premiums out of their paychecks.

For example, an employer may choose to pay 50 percent of the premium for single coverage, while requiring employees to pay the remaining premium for the coverage they choose.

To qualify for a premium tax credit, small businesses generally must pay at least 50 percent of employee premiums.

The total amount your employees pay might be based on the plan they choose. Premiums tend to be higher for certain health plans, like preferred provider organizations (PPO). To save on costs, you can offer a Level-Funded plan option or a high-deductible health plans paired with a health savings account (HSA).

The good news is Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas offers choice and flexibility with health plan design and administration. Unlike many health insurance companies, we do not set a requirement for minimum premium contribution.

Let us help. Browse your small group options and get a free, quick quote today with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas. Our Small Group Account specialists can help you find the best options for your business. You can also call us at 866-584-0171, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or email your questions to smallgroup.sales@bcbsks.com