Nearly three years after federal tax credits became available for small businesses that provide employee health coverage, few have taken advantage of it, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Nearly 50 small-business owners attended an SBA workshop Tuesday that focused on the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, and resources for companies gearing up for major provisions that take effect Jan. 1.

"There are very few (taking advantage of tax credits) because I think there is a lack of awareness or some confusion," said Jane Sawyer, SBA’s district director. "It’s kind of a complex formula to determine just what your credit might be. But it’s definitely worth it to try."

The state Insurance Division estimates there are 21,000 small businesses in Hawaii that may qualify for federal tax credits to offset the cost of employee health insurance, with 4,900 eligible for a maximum tax credit of 35 percent this year and 50 percent next year.

Roughly 11,740 local small businesses, which employ 69,600 people, will be eligible for an average credit of $828 per worker, according to the nonprofit Small Business Majority.

The tax credits are based on a sliding scale determined by the number of employees, average annual wages and the amount an employer pays in health insurance premiums.

"The lower their incomes are, the more of a credit you’re going to get," Sawyer said. "Take advantage of it if you’re getting money back. That means cash flow and that’s what keeps businesses moving."

Business owners with 25 or fewer employees should contact their tax accountants and insurance carriers to explore whether they qualify, Sawyer added.

The credits are available to businesses retroactive to 2010. In 2014 the benefit will be available only to companies that purchase employee coverage on the state’s health insurance exchange, known as the Hawaii Health Connector, an online marketplace where businesses and individuals can compare and purchase policies.

For more information on how to apply for the tax credits, go to www.hawaiihealthconnector.com or call 321-4400.