Yes, if they meet its definition of “uninsured”. Even uninsured employers can be eligible for Catamount Health. (click here for eligibility criteria)

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Can my employees be eligible for Catamount Health if I offer insurance?

Yes, if they meet the definition of “uninsured” AND their household income is below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level. The State will decide whether your employees have to enroll in your plan or Catamount Health based on an analysis of the costs and benefits of the two plans. Your employees should be eligible for premium assistance for whichever plan the State determines they should enroll in. If your employees purchase Catamount Health, you are not responsible for their premium costs.

If your employee has income over 300% of the FPL and you offer health insurance, the employee is not eligible for Catamount Health or premium assistance.

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Can businesses buy into Catamount Health for their employees?

No, but expanding Catamount Health to make this possible is the top priority for VCHCSEF and its member organizations.

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If I stop providing health insurance, will my employees be eligible for Catamount Health?

If an employer stops providing health insurance to its employees, the employees must be uninsured for 12 months to be eligible to enroll in Catamount Health.

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Do businesses help pay for Catamount Health’s funding?

Catamount Health is partially funded by an assessment employers pay for employees who are “uncovered.” Generally, it is based on the number of uncovered, full-time-equivalent (FTE) employees. Uncovered employees are (1) those for whom the employer doesn’t pay for any part of their insurance; (2) those not eligible for the insurance offered by the employer; and (3) those offered insurance but who don’t accept it and don’t have other coverage. There are special rules for seasonal and parttime employees. Contact the Vermont Dept. of Labor for details.

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Do all employers pay the assessment?

Currently, employers with 8 or less FTEs are exempt until June 30, 2008. The exemption goes down to 6 or less FTEs on July 1, 2008, and 4 FTEs on July 1, 2009.

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