What it is
Self-employed and gig workers usually don't have a employer group plan to join. Instead, they often look at individual health insurance, which a person buys for themselves and, if they choose, their family.
Many people in this situation shop through the ACA Marketplace, also called the Health Insurance Marketplace. Some plans are also sold outside the Marketplace. Self-employed health insurance is a common way of describing the search, not a single type of plan.
Health insurance quotes are estimates of what a plan may cost based on details like your location, household size, age and expected income. Your actual options and costs can vary by state, household income and plan year.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Traditionally, people who work for themselves have compared individual plans during the annual open enrollment period. This is the set window each year when most people can sign up for or change Marketplace coverage.
Outside open enrollment, a special enrollment period may be available after certain life events, such as losing other coverage, moving or changing household size. Rules and eligibility differ, so it helps to confirm the details for your situation.
Many Marketplace shoppers also look into premium tax credits, which may lower monthly costs for those who qualify based on household income. With variable 1099 income, people often estimate their yearly income and revisit that estimate if their earnings change. Some also talk with a tax professional about how self-employed health costs are treated.
How the right agent may help
A licensed independent agent may help you sort through individual plans, networks and Marketplace options in plain language. Agents referred through this site must be licensed to sell health insurance in your state, and it's fine to ask to see that license.
A first conversation is generally a chance to share your situation: your state, household, how steady your income is, the doctors or medications you hope to keep, and how you like to budget for care. The agent may then walk you through options that seem relevant, with no promise of any particular result.
Helpful questions to ask include: How do you handle changes in my income during the year? Are my doctors and prescriptions likely to be covered? What happens if I qualify for a special enrollment period? Which details should I confirm on healthcare.gov? Are you paid by carriers, and can you compare more than one?
The bigger picture
Choosing coverage when your paycheck isn't predictable can feel stressful. Wondering about a slow month, a surprise bill or a deadline can weigh on your mind. Taking time to understand your options may bring more calm and confidence to the decision.
Your health and your work are connected. Planning ahead for care can support both your wellbeing and your finances, so you can focus on your business or gigs. If you're also looking for care providers, Providers.plus is one place to explore. No approach is right for everyone, so choose what fits your life.
Keep in mind
- This page is health insurance education only, not insurance, legal, tax or financial advice, and not a recommendation of any plan or carrier.
- Plans, networks, subsidy eligibility and rules vary by state, household income and year, so confirm specifics with a licensed agent or healthcare.gov.
- Individual health insurance does not replace Medicare, Medicaid or emergency care, and you can seek emergency care whenever you need it.
- Update your income estimate and coverage details when your circumstances change, and ask a licensed agent or tax professional if you're unsure.
Agents who often help
Get matched privatelyFrequently asked questions
How do I get health insurance quotes as a self-employed person?
You can get health insurance quotes through healthcare.gov or your state's Marketplace, or by speaking with a licensed independent agent. You'll typically share your location, household size, ages and estimated yearly income. Quotes are estimates, so confirm details before enrolling.
Can gig workers and 1099 contractors buy their own health insurance?
Yes, gig workers and 1099 contractors can generally shop for individual health insurance on their own. Many look at ACA Marketplace plans, and some also consider plans sold outside the Marketplace. Available options depend on your state and the plan year.
How does variable income affect health insurance quotes?
Variable income can matter because Marketplace premium tax credits are typically based on estimated household income. Many people make their best estimate for the year and update it if their earnings change. A licensed agent or healthcare.gov can explain how to do this.
When can I sign up for an individual health plan?
Most people can sign up during the annual open enrollment period. Outside that window, you may qualify for a special enrollment period after certain life events, such as losing other coverage or moving. Rules vary, so check healthcare.gov or ask an agent.
What is a premium tax credit?
A premium tax credit is help that may lower the monthly cost of a Marketplace plan for people who qualify. Eligibility generally depends on household income, household size and other factors. Confirm whether you may qualify through healthcare.gov or a licensed agent.
How can an agent help with self-employed health insurance?
A licensed independent agent may help you compare individual plans, understand how networks and enrollment periods work, and think through how your income could affect options. Agents can't promise any result. Make sure the agent is licensed in your state.
Educational resource. EZ Health Quotes shares general information and connects people with independent agents. It is not professional advice. Talk with a qualified professional about your own situation.