Health Insurance for the Self-Employed and Their Families
Running your own business means you’re in charge of your own health coverage, too. When there’s no employer plan to lean on, you have to sort through premiums, deductibles, and networks on your own. This page covers health insurance for the self-employed, plus options for anyone else who doesn’t get coverage through a job. Along the way, I’ll explain how I can help you and your family compare plans and enroll.
Who Needs Individual and Family Health Insurance
Individual and family plans aren’t just for the self-employed. They also make sense if you:
- Work for yourself as a freelancer, contractor, or small business owner
- Are between jobs and need coverage until the next one starts
- Have lost employer coverage and need a new plan soon
- Work part-time or at a job that doesn’t offer health benefits
- Have retired before 65 and aren’t eligible for Medicare yet
Health Insurance for the Self-Employed: What to Compare
Two plans with similar monthly premiums can feel very different once you actually use them. For that reason, I walk you through the details that matter most:
- Premium: the amount you pay every month, whether you use care or not.
- Deductible and out-of-pocket maximum: what you pay before the plan starts sharing costs, and the most you’d pay for covered care in a year.
- Network: which doctors, specialists, and hospitals the plan covers, and whether yours are included.
- Prescription coverage: whether your medications are covered and what they’ll cost.
Because everyone’s needs differ, I start with how you use healthcare today and what you expect next year. Then I compare the plans I offer in your area against that picture.
When You Can Enroll
Most people enroll during the yearly open enrollment period. However, you may also qualify for a special enrollment period after a qualifying life event, such as losing other coverage, moving to a new area, getting married, or having a baby. Special enrollment windows are limited, so it’s smart to call as soon as your situation changes.
Help With Premiums and Tax Considerations
Depending on the plan you choose, how you enroll, your income, and your household size, you may qualify for financial help that lowers your monthly premium. I’ll help you find out what applies to you before you commit to a plan.
If you’re self-employed, you may also be able to deduct some or all of your health insurance premiums on your taxes. Because everyone’s situation is different, talk with your tax professional to see how it applies to you.
Why Work With an Independent Broker
Because I work independently, I don’t answer to a single insurance company. Instead of pushing one plan, I compare the options I offer and explain the pros and cons of each in plain language. Clients have left me 317+ five-star Google reviews, and you can read what they say on our client reviews page. Curious how this compares with calling an insurer directly? Learn how independent brokers differ from insurance companies.
How It Works
- Schedule a free consultation, online or by phone.
- Share your situation: who needs coverage, your budget, and which doctors you want to keep.
- Review your options together, then enroll in the plan that fits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get health insurance if I’m self-employed?
Yes. You don’t need an employer to buy an individual or family plan. However, you usually need to enroll during open enrollment or a special enrollment period, so timing matters.
Can I cover my spouse and kids on one plan?
In many cases, yes. Family plans can cover you, your spouse, and your children. I can also compare family and individual options side by side, so you can see how the costs stack up.
What if I lose my job or coverage mid-year?
Losing coverage is usually a qualifying life event, which can open a special enrollment period. Continuation coverage such as COBRA may also be an option, and I can help you compare it with an individual plan. Either way, reach out as soon as you know your coverage is ending.
Turning 65 Soon?
If you’re in your 50s or early 60s and looking ahead to Medicare, see our page on insurance before Medicare. When you turn 65, I’ll help you move to Medicare so you can avoid gaps in coverage and late penalties.
Ready to Compare Your Options?
Whether you’re shopping for health insurance for the self-employed, replacing lost coverage, or covering a growing family, I’m here to help. Book your free consultation today, or call me directly at 917-740-1895.
We are not connected with or endorsed by the United States Government or the federal Medicare program. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.
