Small businesses eligible for expanded health insurance credits

The U.S. Health and Human Services Department says the new health care law will allow some small businesses to claim tax credits for more than traditional health insurance.

Congress passed the law in March, but the government is still rolling out the regulation details. Assistant Treasury Secretary Michael Mundaca announced Monday the credits will also be available for "add-on" coverage.

"Small businesses will be able to receive a credit not only for traditional health insurance but also for add-on dental, vision and other so-called limited scope insurance," said Mundaca, "so as long as they meet the requirements of paying at least 50 percent of the premium and some other requirements."

The law provides tax credits of up to 35 percent for small employers with fewer than 25 full-time equivalent employees and average annual wages of less than $50,000.

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