· As a small employer in California, you can be charged higher premiums, within limits, because someone in your group is seriously ill. In addition, you can also be charged somewhat more due to the age and family size of those in your group and where your business is located. However, insurers cannot charge higher premiums based on the genetic information of those in your group.

For groups with more than 50 employees, California does not limit premium variation or increases, except that large groups also cannot be charged more based on genetic information. If you have questions about your group health plan premiums, contact the California Department of Insurance or the California Department of Managed Health Care.