A recent article in the Journal of Accountancy presents a detailed analysis of the IRS proposed regulations governing employer responsibilities under Obamacare: http://www.journalofaccountancy.com/Issues/2013/Jun/20137339.htm
The article contains an in-depth look at the rules, definitions and calculations involved in determining whether an employer is in compliance with the mandates, including:
Who is an "applicable large employer" ?
Who is a "Full Time Equivalent employee (FTE)" ? How do you calculate that? What about seasonal employees?
How does the "lookback period" work ?
What is "minimum essential coverage" ?
What is the definition of "affordable" ?
How is the "assessable payments" penalty calculated ?
This article is not for the faint of heart - it's nitty-gritty detail.
But if your company is going to be subject to the requirements, you need to get a handle on this now, because what you do now will determine what you have to do in 2014.
As always, consult your benefits provider and please give me a call before taking any action on these or other related matters.
"Tomorrow starts now."