If you’re self-employed, you’re not alone—millions of Americans work independently. While there are many benefits to being your own boss, finding affordable, quality health insurance can be one of the biggest challenges.

Before the Affordable Care Act (ACA), self-employed workers had limited and often expensive options. Today, you have access to a variety of plans, including those offered through the Health Insurance Marketplace, that offer coverage for both routine and unexpected care.

Understanding Your Options

When you’re shopping for health insurance for self-employed individuals, there are a few main categories to explore:

Health Insurance Marketplace

Marketplace plans are ACA-compliant and offer coverage for essential health benefits (EHBs) like:

• Preventive care
• Emergency services
• Drugs
• Maternity and newborn care

They also:

• Cover pre-existing conditions
• Offer subsidies based on income
• Provide plans with vision and dental benefits (including pediatric vision)

These plans are only available during Open Enrollment or if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

Private Insurance

You can also purchase health insurance directly from a private insurer. These plans may offer flexible enrollment options but do not include subsidies and may be more expensive overall.

Professional Associations

Groups like the National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) may offer access to health coverage. These plans often come with added perks like business resources, but they are not guaranteed to be ACA-compliant.

Healthcare Sharing Programs

These community-based programs pool member contributions to pay for medical expenses. While monthly costs may be lower, these programs are not insurance and may not cover pre-existing conditions or essential health services. 

Medicaid

Depending on your income and household size, you may qualify for Medicaid. This state-based  option offers comprehensive coverage at little to no cost.

Important Considerations When Choosing Health Insurance

When comparing health plans for self-employed individuals, it’s important to consider more than just the monthly premium. Make sure to keep the following in mind:

Comprehensive Coverage

Look for a plan that offers a range of important features. These include:

• Essential health benefits
• Coverage for pre-existing conditions
• No-cost preventive care
• Options for dental and vision

Consistent and Predictable Costs and Coverage

Marketplace plans are designed to offer coverage for both routine and unexpected care.

Affordability

Marketplace plans may offer financial help in the form of:

• Premium tax credits
• Cost-sharing reductions (for those who qualify)

These savings can significantly reduce what you pay each month and when you get care.

Provider Networks

Make sure your preferred doctors and hospitals are included. Plans vary in network size and structure, so it’s worth checking who is covered before enrolling.

How to Choose the Best Option for Your Needs

Choosing health insurance as a self-employed person depends on your income, health history and preference. Start by evaluating:

• Your expected medical needs
• How often you visit doctors or specialists
• Whether you take prescriptions regularly
• Your ideal monthly budget

Then, compare key features like:

• Premiums
• Deductibles
• Copays and coinsurance
• Out-of-pocket maximums

Be sure to check which plans include your preferred doctors, and review whether any prescriptions you take are covered. For many self-employed individuals, the Health Insurance Marketplace offers the most well-rounded coverage with financial support available to those who qualify.

Here’s a look at the pros and cons of different insurance options for people who are self-employed:

Questions About Health Insurance Options for Those Who Are Self-Employed