Going solo shouldn’t mean going without great coverage. Whether you’re a 1099 contractor, freelancer, or running your own shop, there are several ways to secure affordable, flexible health insurance, especially if you’re in good health.
If you’re healthy enough, explore these alternatives
- Medically underwritten PPO plans: Often lower premiums and solid networks. Good for healthy applicants who want broad access.
- Short-Term Medical (STM): Quick coverage with lower premiums; pair with accident/critical illness to bolster protection.
- Direct Primary Care (DPC) + HDHP: Exceptional access to your doctor; combine with an HSA-eligible plan to handle big bills.
- Level-funded “groups of one” (where available): Some carriers allow owner-only or owner + spouse groups; rules vary by state and carrier.
- Association-based options: Join a professional organization or local chamber to unlock group-style plans if available.
Tax angles that help
- Self-employed health insurance deduction: You may be able to deduct premiums from your taxable income.
- HSAs: Combine an HSA-eligible high-deductible plan with tax-deductible contributions and tax-free withdrawals for eligible expenses.
- QSEHRA/ICHRA (if you hire employees): Reimburse employees for individual coverage tax-free, flexible and budget-controlled.
Picking the right fit: A quick framework
- Budget: Focus on total annual cost, not just the premium.
- Providers: Confirm your preferred doctors/hospitals are in-network.
- Health needs: Regular prescriptions, specialist care, or maternity plans may push you toward a richer benefit structure.
- Flexibility: Need month-to-month or nationwide PPO? Narrow your list accordingly.
- Risk tolerance: Decide whether an HSA strategy or a more traditional copay plan fits your comfort level.
Red flags to avoid
- Plans that sound like “major medical” but only pay limited dollar amounts.
- Offers without clear plan documents or a customer service line you can call.
- Anyone guaranteeing acceptance for an underwritten plan.
Next step
Myers Health Insurance specializes in self-employed coverage. We’ll map your providers, prescriptions, and budget to Marketplace and alternative options so you can choose confidently.
