Self-Employed? Here’s How to Get Covered Without the Chaos

If you're self-employed, you already wear 17 hats. CEO, marketer, customer service, accountant... and unfortunately, now you're also in charge of your own health insurance.

The good news? Getting covered doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You just need someone to explain your options clearly and help you choose what actually fits your lifestyle and income. Here's how to think about it:

1. Know Your Options

You can qualify for Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans through the Marketplace, which are income-based and can include tax credits to lower your monthly premium. Or you might consider private plans, depending on your budget, location, and health needs.

Both options have pros and cons — what matters is choosing based on your actual life, not some generic recommendation.

2. Understand Your Income (Yes, Even if It Changes)

One challenge of self-employment is variable income. Good news: ACA plans are based on your estimated annual income. That means if you have a slow month, it doesn’t automatically mess things up — you just need to keep things updated.

Tip: If you under- or overestimate your income, your subsidies can be adjusted later. A good advisor (hi) can help with this.

3. Think Beyond Just the Premium

It’s tempting to pick the cheapest monthly payment. But look at the deductible, copays, and what’s actually covered. A low premium might leave you high and dry when you need care.

4. You Don’t Have to Figure It Out Alone

This is where most people get stuck. The forms, the jargon, the "you might qualify for this but not that" spiral.

That’s where I come in. At Wolfe Health, I help self-employed people find plans that work with their income, their lifestyle, and their goals. No pressure. No scripts. Just real advice.

If you're running your own business, your health coverage should feel like it's working for you — not against you.

Let's make it simple, so you can get back to doing what you do best.

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