Benefitfocus, Inc. (NASDAQ: BNFT), a leading provider of cloud-based benefits software solutions, recently announced that the company's wholly owned subsidiary, BenefitStore, Inc., has signed an agreement with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to confirm its status as a Web-Based Entity.

The agreement allows Benefitfocus to create a channel for employers to facilitate enrollment in qualified health plans for employees who may be eligible for an advanced premium tax credit through the Federally Facilitated Marketplace.

As a WBE, Benefitfocus can exchange eligibility information directly with the FFM in real-time, providing a convenient enrollment channel for individuals who qualify for federal subsidies as well as variable hour employees who may not be eligible for company-sponsored healthcare coverage. This integration creates a whole workforce solution, allowing employers to offer additional direction and guidance in complying with the individual mandate for coverage stipulated by the Affordable Care Act while further addressing their own needs related to the employer mandate.

Benefitfocus has previously worked to offer issuer-direct enrollment solutions for health insurance carriers. This solution mirrors the new WBE solution and establishes Benefitfocus as a leader in technology solutions and integrations related to the ACA's evolving sales and subsidy channels.

The company's core product, HR INTOUCH(r), gives employers a comprehensive benefits solution that accounts for all segments of their employee population as the ACA introduces new healthcare coverage options for individuals.

By offering the option to enroll in subsidized health plans via the same portal they use to administer enrollment in company-sponsored benefits, employers can provide access to decision support features that encourage their workforce to evaluate the best coverage option based on their individual status. In addition, the portal's suite of reporting tools allows employers to monitor enrollment status, manage ongoing benefits needs and facilitate compliance with ACA requirements.

"Our recognition as a WBE reflects our commitment to providing solutions for the whole workforce in the rapidly evolving benefits landscape," remarked Shawn Jenkins, president and CEO of Benefitfocus. "By extending enrollment options on our Platform, we can offer a whole workforce solution for employers as well as the best consumer experience. This gives our clients an elegant way to address the needs of their entire workforce all in one place."

Benefitfocus provides cloud-based benefits software solutions for consumers, employers, insurance carriers and brokers. Benefitfocus has served more than 20 million consumers on its platform, which consists of an integrated portfolio of products and services enabling clients to more efficiently shop, enroll, manage and exchange benefits information. Benefitfocus solutions support the administration of all types of benefits including core medical, dental and other voluntary benefits plans as well as wellness programs.