Health Insurance for Self-Employed People: Best Plans & Prices

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written by W.I.O

Introduction

Being your own boss has many perks—flexibility, freedom, and control over your career. But one major downside? Health insurance. If you’re self-employed, you don’t have access to employer-sponsored health plans, which means you’re on your own to find affordable coverage. Luckily, there are smart and cost-effective options available.

In this guide, we’ll break down the best health insurance plans for self-employed people in 2025, along with pricing tips and how to choose the right policy for your needs.

1. Marketplace Health Insurance (ACA Plans)

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) offers health insurance plans through federal and state marketplaces. These plans are ideal for freelancers, gig workers, and entrepreneurs.

Pros:

  • You may qualify for premium tax credits (subsidies) based on income.
  • All ACA plans cover essential health benefits, including preventive care, prescriptions, and mental health.
  • No denial for pre-existing conditions.

Average Cost in 2025:

  • With subsidies: $50 – $250/month
  • Without subsidies: $400 – $600/month

Where to Enroll:

2. Health Savings Account (HSA) + High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP)

An HDHP is a low-premium, high-deductible plan often paired with a Health Savings Account (HSA) that lets you save tax-free money for medical expenses.

Pros:

  • Lower monthly premiums.
  • HSA contributions are tax-deductible, grow tax-free, and can be used tax-free for qualified medical expenses.
  • Ideal for healthy individuals who don’t visit the doctor often.

Average Cost in 2025:

  • Premiums: $150 – $350/month
  • Deductibles: $1,500 – $7,500

3. Freelancer & Professional Associations

Organizations like Freelancers Union and National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) offer access to group health insurance or partner plans.

Pros:

  • Group rates may be more affordable than individual plans.
  • Some include extra perks like dental, vision, and telehealth.

Best For:

  • Freelancers, independent consultants, or contractors looking for community-backed plans.

4. Private Health Insurance Providers

You can buy a plan directly from companies like Blue Cross Blue Shield, Kaiser Permanente, UnitedHealthcare, or Aetna.

Pros:

  • More plan flexibility than marketplace plans.
  • May offer broader networks or better customer service.

Average Cost:

  • $300 – $700/month depending on coverage level, age, and location.

5. Short-Term Health Insurance

If you’re between jobs or just need temporary coverage, short-term plans offer an affordable bridge option.

Pros:

  • Extremely low premiums.
  • Flexible enrollment anytime (no open enrollment period).

Cons:

  • Often excludes pre-existing conditions and preventive care.
  • Not ACA-compliant.

Average Cost:

  • $50 – $200/month

Note: Best used for short gaps, not long-term solutions.

6. Medicaid or CHIP (If You Qualify)

If your income is low or unpredictable, you might qualify for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

Pros:

  • Comprehensive coverage at no or very low cost.
  • Includes doctor visits, hospital care, mental health, and more.

Eligibility:

  • Varies by state and income.
  • Check eligibility at medicaid.gov.

7. COBRA (If You Recently Left a Job)

If you recently left a traditional job, COBRA allows you to keep your employer-sponsored plan for up to 18 months.

Pros:

  • You keep the same coverage and doctors.

Cons:

  • You pay the full premium, which can be very expensive.

Average Cost:

  • $600 – $1,200/month

How to Choose the Best Plan

When picking a plan, consider:

  • Your income – Can you qualify for subsidies?
  • Your health needs – Do you need regular care or just emergency coverage?
  • Your budget – Weigh premium vs. deductible trade-offs.
  • Family coverage – Do you need to cover a spouse or children?

Use comparison tools like Healthcare.gov, eHealthInsurance, or Policygenius to review options.

Final Thoughts

Being self-employed doesn’t mean you have to overpay for health insurance. From ACA marketplace plans to HSA-compatible options, there’s a wide range of coverage to fit your needs and budget in 2025.

Start early, compare plans, and look for subsidies—and you’ll be on the path to smart, affordable healthcare.

🔹 Next Step: Visit Healthcare.gov or use a quote tool to explore your options today.

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