Third-Party Administrators (TPAs)

Title 38, Chapter 51 of the South Carolina Code of Laws defines the regulations for administrators for insurance benefits plans and, as mandated by law, administrators are to be licensed and regulated by the director of insurance.

Initial Application


  1. The initial application and fee of $100 must be completed on NIPR. 
  2. There is additional information that will need to be submitted to the SC Department of Insurance to complete your application. Please fill out this form and email to the Specialty Licensing team.
Additional Forms
1. TPA bond
2. Biographical Affidavit


Renewal


  1. The renewal period is February 1 through March 1. You will not be able to process the renewal through NIPR until the renewal is open on February 1.
  2. Renewal fee is $100 annually. 
  3. The renewal application and renewal fee must be completed on NIPR. There is additional information that will need to be submitted to the SC Department of Insurance to complete your renewal. Please fill out this form and email to the Specialty Licensing Team. 

Exemptions


Those who collect charges or premiums from or adjust / settle claims on residents of this state in connection with life / health insurance or annuities, and are acting directly through their officer(s) and employees, are exempt from holding a third-party administrator (TPA) license. However, a Notice of Exemption (Form 1200) must be completed and emailed to the Special Licensing team.

TPAs administering only single-employer, self-funded (ERISA) plans, or Section 125 Cafeteria Plans, are not required for licensure. The United States Internal Revenue Department regulates Section 125 Cafeteria Plans. Section 38-51-10 provides a detailed list of those who are exempt from the licensing requirements. However, a Notice of Exemption (Form 1200) must be completed and emailed to the Special Licensing team.