Health Insurance for the Self-Employed
When your paycheck doesn't come with benefits, you still deserve real options. I help self-employed people, 1099 workers, tradespeople, and small business owners compare private PPO health plans built around their budget.
Free and no obligation. No Social Security number needed to start.
The short answer
Self-employed people usually have three paths: a Marketplace plan during Open Enrollment, a spouse's employer plan, or a private, medically underwritten PPO plan you can generally apply for any month. If you're healthy and earn too much for Marketplace tax credits, a private plan is often worth comparing.
Who I help
Built for people who work for themselves
Plumbers, electricians, HVAC techs, contractors, real estate agents, stylists, consultants, rideshare and delivery drivers, and anyone else paid on a 1099 or running their own business. Your income may be solid, but nobody is handing you a benefits package.
Since the expanded Marketplace tax credits ended after 2025, households earning more than 400% of the federal poverty level generally don't qualify for premium tax credits. That leaves a lot of self-employed people paying full price, which is where comparing private options can help.
For healthy applicants who qualify, some medically underwritten private plans may offer monthly rates 20% to 40% lower than what they'd otherwise pay. Savings are not guaranteed. Pricing and eligibility depend on your application and health review, and not every applicant qualifies.
Plan features
What private PPO plans can offer
Features vary by plan, so I'll walk you through exactly what's available to you.
- Choose your own deductibleEligible applicants can pick from available options, such as $2,500, $3,750, $5,000, $7,500, or $10,000, to balance premium and out-of-pocket costs.
- PPO network, no referralsSee in-network doctors and specialists without a referral, and use negotiated network rates on eligible services.
- First-dollar benefitsOn some plans, certain covered services start paying before you meet the deductible.
- Coverage that moves with youIndividual plans aren't tied to an employer, so they can stay with you as your work changes.
- Rate-lock featuresSome plans offer rate locks for a set period, subject to plan terms.
Side by side
Private PPO vs. Marketplace plan
An honest comparison. Neither is right for everyone.
| Private PPO (outside the Marketplace) | Marketplace (ACA) plan | |
|---|---|---|
| When you can enroll | Generally any time of year | Open Enrollment, or a Special Enrollment Period after a life event |
| Health questions | Yes. Medically underwritten, and an application can be declined | No. Guaranteed issue |
| Pre-existing conditions | May be excluded or limited | Covered |
| Premium tax credits | Not eligible | Available if your income qualifies |
| Network | PPO. See in-network providers without referrals | Varies by plan; many are HMO or EPO |
| Benefits | Defined by the plan; may not include every ACA-required benefit | Includes the ACA's essential health benefits |
Features vary by plan, carrier, and state. Plan documents control.
How it works
Getting a quote takes about 2 minutes
- Request your free quoteShare basic details about you and your household. No Social Security number or medical records needed.
- Talk it through with meBy call, text, or email, on your schedule. We'll go over which options fit, including whether the Marketplace makes more sense.
- Decide on your timelineReview your options, ask questions, and choose if and when to apply. No pressure.
FAQ
Common questions
What health insurance options do self-employed people have?
Most self-employed people can look at Marketplace plans during Open Enrollment (with tax credits if their income qualifies), coverage through a spouse's employer, or private, medically underwritten PPO plans sold outside the Marketplace. Which ones fit depends on your income, health, household, and state.
Can I get health insurance as a 1099 worker without an employer?
Yes. Individual plans aren't tied to an employer, so 1099 contractors and gig workers can buy coverage on their own. Private PPO plans can generally be applied for in any month, while Marketplace plans follow Open Enrollment rules.
Are health insurance premiums tax-deductible if I'm self-employed?
Many self-employed people can deduct health insurance premiums for themselves and their family, subject to IRS rules, such as not being eligible for an employer-sponsored plan. Rules depend on your situation, so check with your tax professional.
Can I choose my own deductible?
Many of the private plans I help clients explore let eligible applicants choose from several deductible options, such as $2,500 up to $10,000. A higher deductible usually lowers the monthly premium. Options depend on the plan and carrier.
Do private PPO plans cover pre-existing conditions?
Private, medically underwritten plans may exclude or limit coverage for certain pre-existing conditions, and an application can be declined. If you have ongoing health needs, a Marketplace plan may be the better fit, and I'll tell you if so.
Can I cover my family and employees?
I can help you look at options for your spouse and children, and talk through what may be available for your employees. Choose "For my business" on the quote form if you'd like to discuss your team.
Keep reading
Related guides
You run the business. Let me handle the coverage search.
Get a free, no-obligation quote and talk with me directly, not a call center.