Short answer: A business generally qualifies if it has 1 to 50 full-time-equivalent employees, offers coverage to all full-time staff, and meets minimum participation and contribution rules (waived in the year-end window). At least one W-2 employee is typically required.
To use the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP), an employer usually needs 1 to 50 FTEs, must offer coverage to all full-time employees (30+ hours), and must meet the carrier’s participation and contribution minimums, which are relaxed during the annual year-end open-enrollment window. Having at least one common-law W-2 employee (besides the owner/spouse) is generally required. SHOP enrollment is handled through carriers or brokers, and qualifying employers may claim the small-business tax credit.