I learned i need to obtain the insurance via the Small Biz Health Options Program or qualify for an exception. How do I qualify for an exception so I get the tax credit?

[KevinTheAuthor]

There is a 50% tax credit for small biz that pay at least have the cost of health insurance premiums for their employees. My small biz does this but we don’t buy our ACA compliant plan from SHOP. Turbotax says we may still get the tax credit  if we qualify for an exception. Got details on who qualifies?

[Mike9241]

another area in which your federal taxes can be lowered but you have to jump through hoops to get it.

i have provided a link to the instructions for form 8941 (where the credit is claimed if you qualify.

you may want to read pages 1 and 2 for the criteria to qualify as a small employer 

the exceptions

you still have to meet the qualifications as a small employer 

and be located either in Hawaii

or

be located in a county that didn't have qualified plans. if so. then you need to properly claim the credit for part or all of 2020 to qualify for the credit in 2021. see page 5 of instructions

https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/i8941.pdf