The SCORE 2015 Issue 4 | Page 21

For 2016, to be an HDHP, the policy must have a minimum deductible of $1,300 for self-only coverage and $2,600 for family coverage. Also, the maximum out-of-pocket limit under a policy must be capped at $6,550 for self-only coverage and $13,100 for family coverage. If you have such a policy, then you can contribute to an HSA. If the company contributes to an employee’s account, the company gets the deduction. If the employee makes the contribution, the employee deducts it from gross income (no itemizing is required). For 2016, the maximum deductible contribution amount to HSAs is $3,350 for self-only coverage and $6,750 for family coverage. Those who are age 55 or older by year end can add an additional $1,000. Thus, if you and your spouse are both age 62 in 2016 and have an HDHP providing family coverage, your contribution limit is $8,750 ($6,750 + $1,000 +$1,000). Find details about HSAs in IRS Publication 969. The numbers haven’t been updated, but the basic rules are unchanged. 4 Small Employer Health Insurance Credit If you’re a small employer who isn’t required to provide health coverage, you’re encouraged to do so by means of a tax credit. You can reduce your tax bill dollar-for-dollar by half of the premiums you pay if you meet certain conditions: • You pay at least 50 percent of the premiums for employees. • You must have fewer than 25 full-time employees. • The average annual wages for these workers cannot exceed $25,000 for a full credit (double that until the credit phases out). The payroll limit is adjusted annually for inflation (e.g., $25,800/$51,600 for 2015). • You buy coverage through a government exchange for small employers, called SHOPs. • You have not already claimed the credit for two consecutive years. Thus, if you already claimed the credit in 2014 and will do so for 2015, you aren’t eligible for it in 2016 even if you meet all of the conditions above. 5 Reporting Requirements Regardless of whether you’re subject to the employer mandate, if you provide health coverage to employees in 2015, you have a new reporting requirement starting in 2016. By Jan. 31, 2016, you’ll have to furnish to employees Form 1095-B, Health Coverage, as well as sending copies to the IRS by Feb. 29, 2016 (March 31, 2016, if you transmit them electronically), to detail the 2015 coverage. Find details about this form in the instructions to the form. Conclusion The tax rules are complex and growing more so each year. Work with a knowledgeable tax advisor so you get things right. S Originally published on SmallBizTrends.com Looking for a Good Wingman? At Trinity Capital, we know what it takes to be a good wingman. Since 2000, we’ve guided dozens of franchise owners through the process of financing or selling their business. A boutique investment banking firm, Trinity Capital is committed to delivering value for clients of every size and situation, including yours. Contact us today. Isn’t it about time you had a good wingman? 11755 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 2450 Los Angeles, CA 90025 310.268.8330 | www.trinitycapitalllc.com SCORE | 2015 Issue 4 Financings • Mergers and Acquisitions • Leveraged and Management Buyouts Debt Restructurings • Private Placements of Debt and Equity THE TRINITY CAPITAL 19