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. 
    • Additional Questionnaire
    • Certificate of Authorization from SC Secretary of State
    • Financial Requirement as described in SC Code Law 38-51-30 (Surety Bond, Letter of Credit, CD, Corporate Guaranty)
    • List of officers/directors and biographical affidavit for each.
    • Financial Statement (2 years)
    • Written Agreement

Renewal


The renewal period is February 1 through March 1. 


Here is a Navigation Tool for getting through NIPR to renew your license.
  1. The renewal 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. 
    • Additional Renewal Questionnaire
    • Financial Requirement as described in SC Code Law 38-51-30 (Surety Bond, Letter of Credit, CD, Corporate Guaranty)
    • List of current officers/directors. If any changes to the officers/directors, complete a biographical affidavit for each.
    • List of Written Service Agreement(s). Attach any that have not been submitted.
    • Audited Financial Statement of previous year.

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 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 must be completed and emailed to the Special Licensing team.

Additional Forms