The Freelancer’s Guide to Health Insurance Options

One of the biggest shocks freelancers face: health insurance is now your responsibility. You’ve got a few paths to consider:

• Marketplace plans (ACA/Obamacare): Good if you qualify for subsidies; options vary by state.

• Freelancer’s union / associations: Some groups offer access to lower-cost plans.

• Private insurance: Usually more expensive, but sometimes necessary.

• Spouse’s plan: If available, this is often the most cost-effective route.

The bottom line: skipping health insurance is a gamble freelancers can’t afford. One unexpected medical bill can wipe out years of hard work. In upcoming posts, we’ll cover how to pick the right plan and balance premiums with out-of-pocket costs.