Being your own boss has a lot of perks - setting your schedule, doing meaningful work, and not having to sit through awkward team-building Zoom calls. But one big downside? Health insurance isn’t handed to you in a tidy benefits package.

If you’re self-employed in Kentucky or Ohio - whether you’re a contractor, consultant, farmer, freelancer, or run your own small business - navigating health coverage can feel like one more full-time job.

Let’s break it down, simply and clearly.

Your Main Options as a Self-Employed Individual

  1. ACA Marketplace Plans
    These are individual plans available through HealthCare.gov. Depending on your income, you might qualify for significant subsidies (even if you make more than you’d think). The plans cover essential benefits and can’t deny you for preexisting conditions.

  2. Private Insurance Plans
    If you don’t qualify for subsidies or want different coverage options, private insurers also offer individual plans. These can vary in price and benefits - so a local agent (like yours truly) can help sort through them.

  3. Health Sharing Ministries
    These aren’t insurance in the legal sense, but some faith-based groups offer cost-sharing plans. They’re not for everyone, but they may appeal to those with certain values and financial needs.

  4. Short-Term Plans
    If you just need something to bridge the gap - for example, while building your business - short-term plans can be an option. Just be aware: they usually offer limited coverage.

What to Look for in a Good Plan

  • Your doctor’s in-network? Don’t assume - double check!

  • What’s the deductible and out-of-pocket max?
    Low premiums can come with steep costs later.

  • Does it cover prescriptions, mental health, or other priorities for you?
    Don’t settle for “good enough.” Make sure it fits your real life.

Tax Tip: Your Premiums Might Be Deductible

Self-employed folks can often deduct their health insurance premiums (and possibly HSA contributions) when filing taxes. That’s a silver lining worth knowing about - especially when every dollar counts.

(Disclaimer: I’m not a CPA, but I know enough to suggest you talk to one!)

The Local Angle: Why It Helps to Work with Someone Nearby

You don’t have time to become an insurance expert. And those call-center reps aren’t going to know which hospitals in Maysville or Portsmouth take which plans.

I live and work in this community - I know which networks actually work here, and which ones just look good on paper.

Final Thought: Don’t Go It Alone

I’ve worked with plenty of self-employed folks who thought they had to figure it all out by themselves. You don’t.

Whether you’re just getting started or need to review a plan that’s gotten too expensive, I’m here to help you find coverage that fits your life, your budget, and your peace of mind.

Let’s figure it out - together.

DMack Insurance