Freelancers · Contractors · Small business owners
When you work for yourself, every premium dollar comes out of your pocket. Here is how the options compare, and how a free review with a licensed agent may help you keep more of what you earn.
No employer plan, income that changes month to month, and a subsidy that can vanish if you have a great year. That is the reality for freelancers, contractors, gig workers, and small business owners. The good news: you usually have more choices than you think, and choosing well may save you thousands over the year.
For Marketplace savings, self-employed people generally use net self-employment income, after business expenses (HealthCare.gov). Estimate too low and you may have to pay back some or all of the advance credit when you file taxes; estimate too high and you may leave savings on the table until tax time (HealthCare.gov). If your income lands near the 400% line, the difference can be large. See the income limits on the 2027 subsidy cliff page.
Many self-employed people can deduct health insurance premiums for themselves, a spouse, and dependents, subject to IRS rules, using Form 7206 (IRS). This is general information, not tax advice, so confirm with your tax professional.
Chris started his career in 2013 working with the self-employed market, and it is still a big part of what he does. On a free call he will look at your expected income, your doctors and prescriptions, and your budget, then lay out the Marketplace and private options side by side so you can see the trade-offs in plain language.
FAQ
Many self-employed people can deduct health insurance premiums for themselves, a spouse, and dependents, subject to IRS rules (for example, you generally cannot take it for months you were eligible for an employer-subsidized plan). The IRS uses Form 7206 for this deduction (IRS). Check with your tax professional.
Marketplace savings are based on your expected household income for the coverage year, and for self-employed people that generally means net self-employment income after business expenses (HealthCare.gov). Update your application if your income changes, because differences are reconciled on your tax return (HealthCare.gov).
For 2027, households above 400% of the federal poverty level generally get no federal premium tax credit (KFF). That is where comparing private options against full-price Marketplace plans can matter most.
It may make sense if you are fairly healthy and can set money aside. With an HSA-eligible high-deductible plan, contributions to a Health Savings Account can be tax-advantaged under IRS rules (IRS Publication 969). Chris can show you how HSA-eligible plans compare with your other options.
Contact
Book a free plan review online, or reach Chris directly by phone or email. No cost, no obligation.
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