Tax credits available to help small business owners pay for employee health care

YOUNGSTOWN — Many of the state’s smallest businesses could receive tax credits this year to help pay for employee health care, according to a report released by small business and consumer health advocacy groups.

The report, issued today by Families USA and Small Business Majority, states that more than 85 percent of Ohio businesses with fewer than 25 employees will be eligible for a tax credit program that begins this year.

The tax credit, part of the new health-care reform legislation, will pay up to 35 percent of employee health-care costs. Nonprofit firms are eligible for up to 25 percent.

Businesses that employ 10 or fewer workers earning an average wage of less than $25,000, will qualify for the maximum 35 percent. The credit decreases on a sliding scale.

For the complete story, see Thursday's Vindicator and Vindy.com