Health Insurance for the Self-Employed
When you run your own business, you are your own benefits department. I help business owners and independent workers compare their coverage options and find a plan that fits both their health needs and their budget.
Who this page is for
- Business owners and sole proprietors without employer coverage
- Independent professionals, consultants and gig workers
- People leaving a job to start a business
- Self-employed people whose current plan costs too much or no longer fits
Your main options
Self-employed people can often choose between ACA-compliant plans (on or off the Marketplace) and private PPO plans. Availability depends on your state, and some options may not be offered everywhere. I walk you through what applies to you.
Possible tax considerations
Many self-employed people can deduct health insurance premiums, and some plans are HSA-eligible. Eligibility depends on your circumstances, so check with a tax professional. I can explain how the plan types differ, but I don't give tax advice.
Premium tax credits
Marketplace premium tax credits depend on your estimated household income and other factors. Private plans outside the Marketplace generally don't qualify. I help you compare both sides so the numbers are clear before you choose.
When you can enroll
ACA Marketplace plans generally require open enrollment or a qualifying life event, such as losing other coverage. Some private plans are available at other times, depending on the plan and state.
Eligibility
You generally need to live in a state where I'm licensed and where the plan is offered, and meet the plan's age and residency rules. ACA Marketplace plans also require open enrollment or a special enrollment period, such as after losing coverage. Some private plans ask health questions before approving you. I explain which rules apply before you apply.
Provider networks
Every plan has a network of doctors, hospitals and pharmacies. Going out of network can cost more, or may not be covered at all. Before you enroll, I check your doctors, hospitals and prescriptions against each plan, and I tell you plainly if I can't confirm one.
ACA-compliant plans vs. other private plans
A general comparison. Specific plan terms vary, so I go through each plan's official documents with you.
| ACA-compliant plans | Other private / limited-benefit plans | |
|---|---|---|
| Essential health benefits | Must cover all ten categories, including maternity, mental health and prescriptions. | May not cover all of them. Some services may be limited or excluded. |
| Pre-existing conditions | Can't be excluded, and you can't be charged more because of your health. | May be excluded or limited, depending on the plan. |
| Medical underwriting | Not used to decide approval or price. | May be used, so approval and price can depend on your health history. |
| Annual and lifetime limits | No dollar limits on essential health benefits. | Some plans cap benefits per year, per condition or for life. |
| Premium tax credits | May be available through the Marketplace, based on income. | Generally not available. |
| When you can enroll | Open enrollment or a qualifying life event. | Some are available year-round. Rules vary by plan and state. |
How your free consultation works
- Step 1
Tell me your situation
Call, request a quote, or book a time. Share who needs coverage, where you live and what matters most.
- Step 2
I check the details
I confirm which plans are available in your state and check your doctors and prescriptions against each one.
- Step 3
Compare side by side
You see the options with costs and trade-offs laid out plainly, including what each plan doesn't cover.
- Step 4
You decide
Take your time. If you'd like to move forward, I help with enrollment. No pressure, no obligation.
Frequently asked questions
Can I deduct my health insurance premiums as a self-employed person?+
Many self-employed people can, but it depends on your tax situation. Ask a tax professional. I can give you a clear breakdown of your premiums to share with them.
Do I need a business entity or employees to qualify?+
Not for individual coverage. Individual and family plans are open to self-employed people, subject to each plan's rules and enrollment periods.
Should I choose a private PPO or an ACA plan?+
It depends on your health needs, budget, and priorities such as doctor choice. ACA-compliant plans and non-ACA private plans work differently, and I'll compare them side by side.
What if my income changes during the year?+
If you get Marketplace premium tax credits, they are based on estimated income and can be adjusted at tax time. Talk to a tax professional about your situation.
Licensed in 28 states
Mo Qurishi is licensed to advise and enroll residents of these states. Not listed? Call and ask, and I'll point you in the right direction.
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Colorado
- Florida
- Georgia
- Iowa
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maryland
- Michigan
- Missouri
- Mississippi
- Montana
- North Carolina
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- Wisconsin
- West Virginia
Related coverage guides
Qurishi Healthcare Advising is an independent licensed insurance advisor (NPN 19229315). We are not affiliated with or endorsed by the federal government, Medicare or the Health Insurance Marketplace. Plan availability, pricing, benefits and eligibility vary by state, insurer and applicant, and not every plan is available in every state. Some private plans, including some PPO plans, are not ACA-compliant. They may use medical underwriting, may exclude or limit coverage for pre-existing conditions or certain services, and may have benefit limits. This page is general information, not tax, legal or medical advice. Review each plan's official documents before enrolling.