IRS Issues New Guidance on Qualified Small Employer HRAs
On Oct. 31, 2017, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issued Notice 2017-67 to provide comprehensive guidance on a variety of topics regarding qualified small employer health reimbursement arrangements (QSEHRAs). Small employers that do not maintain group health plans may establish QSEHRAs for their employees, effective for plan years beginning on or after Jan. 1, 2017. Unlike other health accounts, QSEHRAs can be used to reimburse employees for their health insurance premiums.
Notice 2017-67 clarifies the technical rules for QSEHRAs, including the requirements that employees provide proof of minimum essential coverage (MEC) and that employers provide a written notice to eligible employees each year.
Small employers with QSEHRAs should confirm that their QSEHRAs comply with this new guidance. Notice 2017-62 applies to plan years beginning on or after Nov. 20, 2017. In addition, employers may need to provide their initial written notice by Feb. 19, 2018. If you would like more information on QSEHRSs, give us a call at (520) 721-4848.
