Self-Employed & Contractor Coverage
Self-Employed Health Insurance: Coverage for Freelancers and 1099 Workers
When you work for yourself, nobody handles your benefits — but I do.
When you work for yourself, finding health insurance is one more job on your list. I help self-employed professionals, freelancers, independent contractors, gig workers, and traveling professionals in Colorado and 31 other states compare ACA marketplace plans and private plans side by side — and I explain how your income, your tax situation, and your doctors fit into the decision. My help costs you nothing.
Who This Is For
Anyone under 65 who is self-employed, an independent contractor, a traveling professional, or responsible for their own health coverage. Whether you’re healthy, managing a health condition, just starting out on your own, or simply looking for better options — you’re in the right place.
The Challenge
Without an employer plan you’re responsible for finding, comparing, and paying for your own coverage. Health insurance is confusing and frustrating at best for most people — and figuring it out alone makes it worse. That’s exactly where I come in.
Your Health Insurance Options When You're Self-Employed
ACA marketplace plans accept everyone, with no health questions, and can't turn you down or charge more because of a pre-existing condition. Depending on your income, you may qualify for tax credits that lower your monthly premium.
Private plans are offered outside the marketplace and ask health questions, so eligibility depends on your answers. For healthy people who don't qualify for much financial help, they may cost less, and many can be started any time of year. If a private plan isn't the right fit, an ACA plan is always an option.
A spouse's employer plan or COBRA from a previous job can also be options, especially as a short-term bridge. I'll compare all of them side by side so you can see the real cost of each.
How Your Income Affects Marketplace Tax Credits
Premium tax credits for ACA plans are based on your estimated household income for the year — for self-employed people, that's generally your net self-employment income after business expenses, not your gross revenue. If your income goes up and down, estimating it well matters: if your actual income ends up higher than your estimate, you may have to pay back some of the credit at tax time, and if it ends up lower, you may get money back.
Since the enhanced federal tax credits expired after 2025, households earning more than 400% of the federal poverty level generally no longer qualify for any credit. If you're close to that line, deductible retirement or HSA contributions can make a real difference. I'll walk through your estimate with you and help you update it during the year if your income changes.
The Self-Employed Health Insurance Deduction
If you have a net profit from your business, you may be able to deduct the health insurance premiums you pay for yourself, your spouse, and your dependents. The deduction is limited to your net business earnings, and it doesn't apply to any month when you were eligible for a subsidized health plan through your own or your spouse's employer. It's claimed with IRS Form 7206, and it interacts with marketplace tax credits, so it's worth reviewing with your tax professional. I'll make sure you have the plan details and premium totals you need.
HSA-Eligible Plans for the Self-Employed
A high-deductible health plan (HDHP) that qualifies for a Health Savings Account can be a smart fit if you're healthy and want to save for future medical costs. For 2027, you can contribute up to $4,500 to an HSA with self-only coverage or $9,000 with family coverage, plus an extra $1,000 if you're 55 or older. Contributions are tax-deductible, the money grows tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses aren't taxed. Because contributions lower your income, they can also increase the premium tax credits you qualify for.
Contractors, Gig Workers, and Traveling Professionals
If your work takes you from state to state — travel nurses, consultants, tradespeople, and other contract workers — the network matters as much as the price. Many plans only cover routine care in your home area, so I look at how each plan handles care while you're traveling and what happens if you change your home state. A permanent move to a new state usually opens a Special Enrollment Period, and I'm licensed in 32 states, so I can often help you before and after the move.
What I Help You With
Explaining every option available to you in plain language — no jargon, no confusion
Shopping both marketplace and private plans available in your state
Reviewing whether your income affects your subsidy eligibility
Getting you enrolled from start to finish
Checking whether your current doctors are in network before you enroll
Supporting you long after your plan is in place
Coverage Outside of Open Enrollment
You don't always have to wait for Open Enrollment. If you just left a job to go out on your own, losing that employer coverage opens a 60-day Special Enrollment Period for ACA plans. Moving to a new state, getting married, or having a baby can qualify too. And depending on your health and eligibility, many private plans can be started any time of year. I'll help you figure out exactly where you stand.
Always Free to You
Everything I do is completely free. No hidden fees, no surprises. I'm paid by the insurance carriers, so your price is the same whether you enroll on your own or with my help.
Self-Employed Health Insurance FAQ
Can I deduct health insurance if I'm self-employed?
Often, yes. If you have a net profit and aren't eligible for a subsidized employer plan, including through your spouse, you may be able to deduct premiums for yourself and your family. Talk with your tax professional about your situation.
How do I estimate my income for marketplace tax credits?
Start with your expected net self-employment income for the year — revenue minus business expenses — plus any other household income. Last year's tax return is a good starting point, and you can update your estimate during the year if things change.
Can I get health insurance outside Open Enrollment?
Yes, if you have a qualifying life event such as losing job-based coverage, moving, or getting married. Many private plans are also available year-round, depending on eligibility.
Is an HSA worth it if I'm self-employed?
It can be, especially if you're healthy and can set money aside. HSA contributions are tax-deductible and can lower the income used for marketplace tax credits. You need an HSA-eligible high-deductible plan to contribute.
Do you only help people in Colorado?
No. I'm licensed in 32 states and work with clients online by phone or video, wherever you are.
Does your help cost anything?
No. I'm paid by the insurance carriers, so your price is the same whether you enroll on your own or with me.
Last reviewed October 2026 by Heath Heimlich, licensed health insurance advisor (NPN 8799018). This page is general information, not tax advice. Sources: IRS (Form 7206 instructions; Rev. Proc. 2026-24); HealthCare.gov.