Having your own business has its perks, but finding the right health insurance plan is not one of them. As a self-employed individual, you’re likely feeling the heat when it comes to securing solid healthcare coverage that fits your needs and budget.
In this article, I’m here to help you navigate the choppy waters of finding the best health insurance plan for self-employed individuals like yourself.
From comprehensive coverage to customizable options, I’ll break down the ins and outs of the top plans on the market, so you can rest easy knowing you’ve got a safety net for you and your loved ones.
So, Let’s begin the search for the right healthcare option among many options.
Top 10 Health Insurance Plans for Self-Employed of 2023
1) Kaiser Permanente
NCQA rating: 5
Available: 9 states
Copay Start from $0
Pros and cons of the plan:
Pros:
- Affordable plans with different pricing tiers
- Guaranteed top-notch healthcare
- High Rating with good customer service
- Affordable Care Act plans do not exclude pre-existing conditions or limit renewability
Cons:
- The coverage start date may delay
- Available in limited areas
Key features of the plan
Kaiser Permanente offers preventative care benefits, including free routine physicals. This helps individuals stay healthy and avoid additional healthcare expenses. Kaiser Permanente’s plans are affordable, with different pricing tiers and the option to add a health savings account, making it accessible for self-employed individuals.
Why this plan Is best for you:
Kaiser Permanente health insurance is highly recommended if you are a resident of those places where it is available. This is suitable for those who want an affordable option with different pricing tiers to choose from. Kaiser Permanente has control over the quality of care and pricing, making it a reliable option for top-notch healthcare. The plan is also rated high for customer satisfaction, making it a popular choice for many.
2) Blue Cross Blue Shield
NCQA rating: 3 to 4
Available: All states
Copay Start from $10
Pros and cons of the plan:
Pros:
- The extensive network of healthcare providers
- Comprehensive coverage options
- Best For Gold plan
- BCBS is available in all states of the US, including the International
- High-quality customer service with representatives available 24/7 to assist members
Cons:
- Plans can be higher compared to other insurance providers
- The specific benefits and costs of its plans can vary from state to state
Key features of the plan
BCBS offers many different plans with varying levels of coverage, giving self-employed individuals the ability to choose the plan that best suits their needs and budget.
Why this plan Is best for you:
If you need regular check-ups, vaccinations, and other preventative services, then this plan is for you. It can help self-employed individuals stay healthy and avoid costly medical expenses in the future. This plan also offers wellness programs and resources to help members lead healthier lives, which is a great way to keep medical expenses under control.
3) UnitedHealthcare
NCQA rating: 3.7 (Average)
Available: All states
Copay Start from $0
Pros and cons of the plan:
Pros:
- Expansive provider networks of over 6,500 hospitals
- User-friendly smartphone app for managing your health plan details
- Available in all 50 states
Cons:
- Limited provider network in certain areas
- Family plans can be expensive, ranging upwards of $1,200
Key features of the plan
UnitedHealthcare’s smartphone app allows policyholders to view their health plan details, create a digital ID card, and manage their prescriptions.
Why this plan Is best for you:
If you are looking for flexible coverage options, such as short-term health insurance, supplemental insurance, and access to Medicare and Medicaid plans then this is recommended for you. This allows self-employed individuals to choose a plan that best suits their needs and budget.
4) Aetna
NCQA rating: 3 to 3.5
Available: 16 states
Copay Start from $20
Pros and cons of the plan:
Pros:
- A variety of HMO, PPO, and EPO plans are available
- Eligible for the maximum premium tax credit under the Affordable Care Act
- Potential for low contributions based on income
- Virtual care is available 24/7 for free
Cons:
- It may not be the most affordable option if not eligible for ACA premium tax credits
- Availability of tax credits and premium reductions may vary based on location and income
Key features of the plan
Eligibility for the maximum premium tax credit under ACA. This allows self-employed individuals to offset their health insurance costs based on their income, making it a solid choice for those starting a freelance career.
Aetna’s plan is the variety of options available. HMO, PPO, and EPO plans are all offered, giving self-employed individuals the flexibility to choose a plan that fits their specific needs. All plans are also eligible for premium reductions through the ACA, potentially reducing the cost of the monthly premium.
Why this plan Is best for you:
If you need access to preventive and emergency care at local MinuteClinics for as low as possible, making it a cost-effective solution for those on a budget.
5) Cigna
NCQA rating: 3 to 4
Available: 12 states
Copay Start from $0
Pros and cons of the plan:
Pros:
- Large network of healthcare providers and facilities, including 67,000 pharmacies
- Dental coverage in all 50 states
- Prescription delivered directly to the home
- 24/7 virtual care
Cons:
- Not available in all 50 states
- Has received a high number of customer complaints
Key features of the plan
Cigna members can chat with their doctor and get a prescription without ever leaving their homes, which can be especially beneficial for those who work from home. Cigna also offers prescription delivery, making it easier for patients to access the medications they need. Cigna also offers dental coverage and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans.
The Cigna plan is also designed to be easy to use, with online tools to help members pick plans and find doctors, predict costs, and manage their health insurance.
The company’s website and mobile app are user-friendly, allowing members to access information, pay premiums, view claims, and print temporary ID cards from anywhere.
Why this plan Is best for you:
Cigna’s affordability, which makes it one of the best health insurance plans for self-employed individuals, is a good option for those who value convenience and accessibility.
With its low-cost HMO and EPO plans and its fine-tuned online services, self-employed professionals benefit from Cigna’s large network of healthcare providers and facilities. If you work from home, Cigna’s prescription delivery option could be a valuable time-saver for you.
6) Humana
NCQA rating: 3.6
Available: All states
Copay Start from $0
Pros and cons of the plan:
Pros:
- Relatively low-cost options, starting at $0 per month for Medicare Advantage plans
- Large network of healthcare providers
- One of the best for the family plan
- Flexible PPO plans with many coverage options
Cons:
- Higher costs compared to HMOs or EPOs
- Probably, one of the poor customer service
Key features of the plan
Humana is best for the flexibility to choose your own primary care physician, ensuring that you receive the care you need from someone you trust. The insurance provider also offers affordable pricing options with Medicare Advantage plans. The comprehensive coverage options available include preventive care, doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription drug coverage.
Additionally, telemedicine services are available for convenient virtual care, and online tools such as bill pay, claims tracking, and appointment scheduling are provided for easy management of your healthcare.
Why this plan Is best for you:
Humana’s flexible PPO plans may be a good fit if you want the ability to stick with your preferred primary care provider but don’t want to pay high premiums. With its extensive network of healthcare providers and relatively low-cost options, starting at free per month for Medicare Advantage plans, Humana is worth considering.
7) Oscar Health
NCQA rating: 2.75
Available: 15 states
Copay Start from $0
Pros and cons of the plan:
Pros:
- Lower premiums and deductibles
- Best health app which allows customers to find care, message, refill prescriptions, talk to a virtual care provider
Cons:
- Low Rating with so many bad reviews
Key features of the plan
The lower premiums and deductibles, on average, compared to the competition, make Oscar Health an affordable option for self-employed individuals. They offer a variety of plan types, including different medical management programs, which provide customers with more options to choose from.
To incentivise healthy behaviors and improve overall health, Oscar also offers rewards for hitting daily step goals, up to $100 per year.
Why this plan Is best for you:
Oscar Health may be the best health insurance plan for you if you are a self employed individual who is looking for an affordable option with a convenient health app. The lower premiums and deductibles, on average, compared to the competition, combined with the virtual care options, make it a cost-effective option.
8) Molina Healthcare
NCQA rating: 2
Available: 20 states
Copay Start from $0
Pros and cons of the plan:
Pros:
- 24/7 telehealth visits through Teladoc at no cost
- Best for bronze and silver plans
Cons:
- Low Rating and lots of negative reviews
- Fewest health management programs compared to other insurers
Key features of the plan
Molina has a mobile app that allows independent contractors to view their health records, talk to a nurse, and manage their healthcare needs with ease. They have low premiums and deductibles, making them a cost-effective option for independent contractors who are looking for an affordable health insurance plan.
They have a nationwide network of healthcare providers, making it easy for independent contractors to find a doctor or healthcare provider that meets their needs, no matter where they are located.
Why this plan Is best for you:
Molina Healthcare may be the best health insurance plan for self-employed who are looking for an affordable plan with basic health coverage. If you are looking for a plan with the lowest premiums and deductibles and don’t require extensive health management programs or dental coverage, Molina may be a good choice.
9) Pivot Health
NCQA rating: 2.5 to 4
Available: 31 states
Copay Start from $30
Pros and cons of the plan:
Pros:
- Ability to visit any convenient doctor
- Easy online quote and purchase process
- Access telemedicine around the clock
Cons:
- Pre-existing conditions may be excluded
- 5-day wait for health coverage to kick in
Key features of the plan
Pivot offers competitive prices starting at $99, making it a budget-friendly option for those who are self-employed. Moreover, discounts on medication and vision care provide even more value to policyholders.
With immediate coverage and the ability to visit any convenient doctor, Pivot offers the freedom that self-employed individuals need in a health insurance plan.
Why this plan Is best for you:
If you want the ability to customize your policy, then as a self-employed this health insurance plan is best for you. Pivot gives you opportunities for savings through its discount programs and telemedicine services.
10) Elevance Health
NCQA rating: 3
Available: 14 states
Copay Start from $0
Pros and cons of the plan:
Pros:
- Best Cost-saving Health Insurance
- User-friendly website and mobile app
- Access to a large network of healthcare providers
Cons:
- Poor handling of customer grievances
- Allegations of underpayment, claim denials, and payment delays.
Key features of the plan
Elevance is a popular choice among individuals and businesses looking to save money on health insurance. The company has an extensive network of healthcare providers, allowing members to have more options when choosing a doctor or facility for treatment.
They provide wellness programs designed to help members improve their health and save money on healthcare costs. Furthermore, they have cost-saving options, such as discounts on prescription drugs, to help members save money on healthcare costs.
Why this plan Is best for you:
Simply, If you like an affordable insurance plan with access to a large network of healthcare providers, then it is what you are looking for. You can consider their cost-saving option that might help you a lot.
Final Opinion
The search for the best health insurance plan for the self-employed isn’t exactly a walk in the park, but with the right info and guidance, you can land yourself the perfect coverage that fits your needs and budget.
Whether you’re a freelancer, small business owner, or gig worker, it’s crucial to have a solid health insurance plan in place to protect you and your family against life’s unexpected twists and turns.
When it comes to choosing the best health insurance plan for the self-employed, it’s important to do your due diligence and compare the different options available. Take into consideration your lifestyle, health needs, and budget, and don’t be afraid to shop around and negotiate for the best deal.
