Health Insurance for 1099 and Self-Employed
Keep the freedom to choose your doctors, without overpaying for it. PPO networks, ACA plans and private plans, explained side by side.
About 1099 private plans
- PPO networks open to the public. You choose your doctors and specialists in the network, with no referrals.
- Based on your health, not your income. ACA savings depend on income. Private plans are priced and approved on your health, which can help if your income puts ACA subsidies out of reach.
- Can help at tax time. Self-employed people may be able to deduct health insurance premiums. Ask your tax professional what applies to you.
- Great for business owners who want control over their plan and budget.
Is it right for you?
Private plans tend to fit people who are generally healthy and want to pick their own doctors. They can have health questions, waiting periods and exclusions that ACA plans don’t. If you expect heavy medical needs, ACA’s protections may serve you better.
Pricing and availability change, so it pays to look now. I’ll compare both honestly.
ACA plans vs. private plans
A general comparison. Features vary by plan and carrier, so I’ll confirm the details for any plan I recommend.
| ACA-compliant plans | Private plans | |
|---|---|---|
| Who can enroll | Anyone eligible, during open enrollment or after a qualifying life event. | Depends on the plan. Some allow enrollment outside open enrollment, and many ask health questions. |
| What sets your price | Age, location, tobacco use and plan level. Not your health. | Often your health, age and the plan design. Healthier applicants may see better rates. |
| Income-based savings | Premium tax credits may be available, depending on your income. | Not available. |
| Pre-existing conditions | Can’t be denied or excluded. | May be limited, excluded or declined. |
| Required benefits | Covers essential health benefits, with a yearly out-of-pocket maximum. | Benefits and limits vary. Read the plan’s fine print. |
| Doctors | Network rules vary by plan. Many are narrow networks. | Often broad PPO networks open to the public. |
| Often a fit for | People with ongoing health needs or income that qualifies for savings. | Generally healthy people who want to pick their own doctors and aren’t eligible for savings. |
Tax treatment depends on your situation. Check with your tax professional.
Book a consultation and I’ll walk through it with you, comparing ACA and private plans apples to apples and showing you the better options out there. 15 to 20 minutes, tops. Get it squared away now and have peace of mind for the rest of the year.
Prefer to enroll on your own? Enroll online.