Who it's for
- Freelancers, independent contractors, and 1099 workers
- Sole proprietors and small business owners
- Rideshare, delivery, and gig workers
- Anyone leaving a job to start a business
How it works
When you work for yourself, you'll usually buy an individual or family plan rather than a group plan. ACA-compliant plans are available through the Marketplace or directly from carriers, and they cover the same essential health benefits as any other ACA plan.
On the Marketplace, savings are based on your estimated household income for the year, which for self-employed people usually means projected net self-employment income. Because that number can change month to month, it helps to make a careful estimate and update it when your business grows or slows down.
At tax time, any advance premium tax credit is reconciled against your actual income. Updating your estimate during the year helps avoid owing money back.
What it covers
As a self-employed person you'll typically buy an individual or family plan, which (if ACA-compliant) covers:
- Preventive care, doctor visits, and specialists
- Emergency and hospital care
- Prescription drugs
- Mental health services
- Maternity and newborn care
What affects the cost
Prices aren't one-size-fits-all. These factors usually make the biggest difference:
- Your age (ACA rules limit how much more older adults can be charged)
- Where you live, down to your county and ZIP code
- Tobacco use, which can raise premiums in many states
- Who is on the plan (just you, you and a spouse, or a whole family)
- The metal level and network type you choose
- Household income, which determines any premium tax credit or cost-sharing reduction
ACA-compliant plans can't charge you more because of your health history or a pre-existing condition. Look at the total yearly picture, not just the monthly premium: the deductible, copays, and out-of-pocket maximum matter just as much when you actually use care. For self-employed people, an accurate income estimate is often the biggest single factor in what you'll actually pay after savings.
When you can enroll
You can enroll during Open Enrollment. For 2027 coverage, Open Enrollment runs November 1, 2026 through January 15, 2027. Choose a plan by December 15, 2026 for coverage that starts January 1; plans chosen December 16 through January 15 generally start February 1. Leaving a job and losing employer coverage to start a business is generally a qualifying life event, giving you a Special Enrollment Period, usually 60 days.
Key things to know
Savings are based on estimated income
Marketplace savings use your projected household income for the year. If your income changes, update your application so your savings stay accurate and you avoid surprises at tax time.
Variable income takes planning
Estimating income is harder when it changes month to month. Hollen can walk you through how the estimate affects your options.
HSA-eligible plans can be useful
Some high-deductible health plans are eligible for a Health Savings Account, which may offer tax advantages. Eligibility rules apply.
Ask a tax professional about deductions
Self-employed people may be able to deduct health insurance premiums in some situations. Hollen isn't a tax advisor, so confirm with your tax professional.
Leaving a job can open enrollment
Losing job-based coverage is generally a qualifying life event, giving you a window to enroll outside Open Enrollment.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Estimating income too low and owing part of your tax credit back
- Picking a plan with a deductible you can't comfortably cover in a slow month
- Letting job-based coverage end without enrolling during your Special Enrollment Period
- Assuming short-term medical is the same as comprehensive coverage
- Not asking a tax professional about the self-employed health insurance deduction
How Hollen helps
Hollen walks you through estimating income, compares plans from multiple carriers, and explains how deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums fit an uneven cash flow. She can also show HSA-eligible options and help you update your application when your income changes. For tax questions, she'll point you to your tax professional.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a group plan for just myself?
Group plans generally require at least one employee who isn't the owner or the owner's spouse. Many self-employed people use individual plans instead.
What if my income changes during the year?
Report changes to the Marketplace promptly. Your savings can be adjusted, which helps avoid owing money back when you file taxes.
Is short-term medical a good option for me?
It can fill certain gaps, but it isn't comprehensive coverage and may not cover pre-existing conditions. Learn more on the Short Term Medical page.
What income do I use if I'm self-employed?
Marketplace savings use projected household income, which for most self-employed people is based on net self-employment income. A tax professional can help with the details; Hollen can explain how the estimate affects your options.
Can my spouse and kids be on my plan?
Yes. You can buy a family plan that covers your spouse and dependents.
Related coverage
Individual / Private Health Insurance · Family Health Insurance Plans · Affordable Care Act (ACA) Plans · Short Term Medical · Life Insurance
Hollen is licensed in 14 states. See coverage details for South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, Texas, Florida, or all licensed states.
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This page is general educational information, not a guarantee of coverage, eligibility, or cost. Benefits, availability, and rules vary by plan, carrier, and state. Contact Hollen for details on specific plans.