What is the difference between a TPA and ASO?

What is the difference between a TPA and ASO?

ASO (Administrative Service Only) – Because TPAs and self-funding were considered competition to traditional insurers in the 1980s, “ASO” became a way for insurers to try to market the same product and service under a different name. Legally, there is no difference between a TPA and an ASO. Oct 5, 2016