Top Health Insurance Options for the Self-Employed
John Moats

When you're self-employed, you're the boss—which means you're also in charge of choosing your own health insurance plan. Whether you’re a freelancer, independent contractor, or small business owner, finding the right health insurance for self-employed individuals can feel overwhelming. But with the right information and support, it doesn't have to be.

 

At Anderson Insurance Group, we specialize in helping self-employed professionals navigate their options and secure the best coverage for their needs and budget. Here's what you need to know:

1. Understand the Types of Health Insurance Plans

 

a. ACA Marketplace Plans
The Health Insurance Marketplace, created by the Affordable Care Act (ACA), offers plans that cover essential health benefits. Depending on your income, you may qualify for subsidies to lower your monthly premiums.

 

b. High-Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs) with HSAs
These plans typically have lower premiums and can be paired with a Health Savings Account (HSA). HSAs allow you to set aside pre-tax money for medical expenses, offering significant tax savings.

 

c. Private Insurance Plans
These are available outside of the ACA Marketplace and may offer more flexibility in provider networks and coverage options. However, they don’t always include the same essential health benefits.

 

d. Association Health Plans (AHPs)
Some professional groups and associations offer group-style health insurance plans to their members. These plans may offer lower premiums and broader networks.

 

e. Short-Term Health Insurance
Short-term plans offer temporary coverage, typically lasting from a few months up to a year. They can be a cost-effective stopgap, but they often don’t cover pre-existing conditions or preventive care.

2. Take Advantage of Tax Benefits

 

Being self-employed means you can deduct certain insurance-related expenses:

  • Self-Employed Health Insurance Deduction: You may be able to deduct 100% of your health insurance premiums for yourself, your spouse, and your dependents.

  • HSA Contributions: Contributions to a Health Savings Account are tax-deductible, and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are tax-free.

These deductions can make a big difference when budgeting for health care.

3. How to Evaluate Health Insurance Providers

 

When comparing providers and plans, consider these key factors:

  • Monthly premium vs. out-of-pocket costs (deductibles, co-pays, co-insurance)

  • Coverage options: Are your preferred doctors and prescriptions included?

  • Customer service and ease of claims process

  • Flexibility and scalability: If your business grows or income fluctuates, can your plan adapt?

Working with an independent agency like Anderson Insurance Group gives you access to multiple carriers and expert guidance—so you're not doing it alone.

4. Why Work with Anderson Insurance Group?

 

We understand the unique needs of freelancers, consultants, and small business owners. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your current plan, we’ll help you compare options, identify tax-saving strategies, and feel confident in your choice.