How to Get Self-Employed Health Insurance

Health insurance is complicated enough when you are employed by large company. But searching for self-employed health insurance can make you feel overwhelmed and frustrated. Read a few tips about getting health insurance as a self-employed person so you can make an informed decision.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Determine your financial situation to help you research different types. If you can afford to have a high deductible, your monthly cost decreases. Other variations that may change your monthly payment include higher coinsurance percentages, the amount you pay for routine care/office visits or prescription drug programs.

2. Consider a plan that has a high deductible so you can take advantage of a tax-free health savings account (HSA). When you pay a higher deductible, your premiums will be lower on your self-employed health coverage. You deposit pretax dollars into your HSA and withdraw the money when needed to pay for medical bills that aren't paid for by your health insurance.

3. Search the web. Numerous companies allow you to enter a few details and in turn they will supply you with a quote. EHealth Insurance is an excellent site that allows you to access quotes from various companies and compare plans. The different companies are ranked based on several factors.

4. Get a health insurance agent. These agents provide quotes for self-employed health coverage and assist with questions.

Tips & Warnings

• If you decide to use a health insurance agent, check with your state's insurance commissioner's office to make sure there are no complaints against them.
• When searching for health plans, look for A.M. Best ratings. This rating system is designed for consumers in mind. It states the insurers' financial strength and how they meet policyholder's obligations.

Resources

• Visit eHealth Insurance to compare different health insurance plans.

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[alle]

on 9/24/2008 How can I get disablity insurance. I am self-employed, however I do not need Life Insurance because I have sufficient coverage from my previous job. I do however, need insurance to cover my income in case I become disable. my e-mail address is [e-mail] Thanks for your reponse.

[choicearizona]

on 2/8/2008 http://www.arizonaautohomelifeinsurance.com/builderarizonacc/Phoenix/index.php

While self employed and while the wife was between jobs we purchased our own health policy. We carried a deductible of about $3500 or so. So glad nothing happened and now wife has good benefits through a new job. My heart goes out to other self employed people who have to have those major med plans with big deducts.