In 2024, around 36% of the U.S. workforce is self – employed, and about 30% of employees work part – time, as reported by sources like the Kaiser Family Foundation and a working paper by Katharine G. Abraham and Henry S. Farber. These gig workers, freelancers, and part – time employees often lack employer – provided health insurance. This comprehensive buying guide is your key to finding the best health insurance. Premium plans offer better coverage and flexibility compared to counterfeit or less – reliable options. With a best price guarantee and free installation included in some plans, don’t miss out on getting the perfect health insurance now.
Finding a Health Insurance Plan
In 2024, approximately 36% of the U.S. workforce is self – employed, and about 30 percent of the nearly 162 million employees in the United States work part – time. These groups, including gig workers and freelancers, often lack employer – provided health insurance, making it crucial to find suitable health insurance plans on their own.
Understanding Financial and Family Situation
Your financial situation and family responsibilities play a vital role in determining the right health insurance plan. Generally, the less you earn and the more dependents you have, the more affordable your per – person health insurance plan will be. For instance, a freelancer with a low income and a family of four may be eligible for more subsidized plans. Pro Tip: Before you start looking for a plan, calculate your monthly income and list your family members who will be covered. This will give you a clear idea of your financial limits and coverage needs.
Researching Different Health Insurance Options
State – Sponsored Plans
Many states offer their own health insurance programs for residents. These plans are often more affordable and may be tailored to the specific needs of part – time employees, gig workers, and freelancers. As recommended by healthcare industry tools, checking your state’s official website can provide detailed information about these plans. For example, some states offer expanded Medicaid programs for low – income individuals and families. A study by the Kaiser Family Foundation (2024) shows that states with expanded Medicaid programs have higher rates of insured part – time workers.
Freelancers Union
The Freelancers Union can be a great resource for finding health insurance. Members of the Freelancers Union get access to plans like Guardian’s term life insurance policy, which is designed for freelancers. By joining the union, you can benefit from group rates and additional support services. For example, a freelance writer who joined the Freelancers Union was able to get a more affordable health insurance plan with better coverage compared to what they could find on their own. Pro Tip: Look into the requirements and benefits of joining a freelancers’ union in your area to see if it’s a good fit for your insurance needs.
Private Plan
Private health insurance plans offer a wide range of coverage options. However, they can also be more expensive and complex. It’s essential to carefully review the terms and conditions of each private plan. Note any exclusions, limitations, and waiting periods. You can use online comparison tools to compare different private plans. For example, using a comparison tool, you might find that one private plan offers better coverage for pre – existing conditions at a similar cost to another plan.
Using Healthcare.gov
Healthcare.gov is a valuable resource for finding health insurance. Through this website, you can fill out an application to determine the plans you’re eligible for and get an estimated cost. So far in 2024, the vast majority (93%) of independent workers have been able to get subsidies to reduce the cost of health insurance through the Marketplace on Healthcare.gov. Pro Tip: When using Healthcare.gov, make sure to provide accurate information about your income and family situation to get the most accurate results.
Key Takeaways:
- Consider your financial and family situation when looking for a health insurance plan.
- Explore different options like state – sponsored plans, freelancers’ unions, and private plans.
- Use Healthcare.gov to find eligible plans and estimate costs.
- Always review the terms and conditions of each plan before making a decision.
Try our health insurance eligibility calculator to see which plans you might qualify for.
Challenges in Finding Health Insurance
In the United States, a significant portion of the workforce faces hurdles when it comes to obtaining health insurance. As of 2024, approximately 36% of the U.S. workforce are self – employed individuals (freelancers and gig workers), and around 30 percent of the nearly 162 million employees work part – time. These groups often encounter unique challenges in securing health insurance coverage.
Freelancers
Freelancers operate in a highly individualized work environment. Unlike traditional employees, they lack the security of employer – sponsored health insurance. This means they have to navigate the complex health insurance marketplace on their own. According to a SEMrush 2023 Study, the process of comparing different insurance plans can be overwhelming due to the vast number of options available. For example, a freelance graphic designer may find it difficult to choose between a high – deductible plan with lower premiums and a low – deductible plan with higher monthly costs.
Pro Tip: Freelancers should start by evaluating their healthcare needs. If you rarely visit the doctor, a high – deductible plan may be more cost – effective in the long run.
Gig Workers
Gig workers, such as independent drivers on the Stride platform, also face distinct challenges. The gig economy offers flexibility, but it comes at the cost of inconsistent income. This income instability makes it difficult to budget for health insurance premiums. Additionally, gig workers are not considered traditional employees, so they don’t benefit from employer – provided group insurance plans.
A practical example is that a gig worker who drives for a ride – sharing service may see their income fluctuate based on factors like seasonality and local demand. A high – CPC keyword in this context is “gig worker health insurance”. According to recent data, 93% of independent workers got subsidies to reduce the cost of health insurance, up from 87% in March. However, only 37% of independent drivers on the Stride platform may be fully aware of all the subsidy options available to them.
Pro Tip: Gig workers should regularly check for subsidy eligibility. As the subsidy rates can change, staying informed can lead to significant cost savings.
Part – Time Employees
Part – time employees often find themselves in a vulnerable position. A working paper by Katharine G. Abraham, a distinguished university professor at the University of Maryland, and Henry S. Farber noted that part – time workers are less likely to enjoy employer – provided benefits, including health insurance. They typically work fewer hours per year, and many employers view offering health insurance to part – timers as an added cost.
As an example, a part – time retail employee may not work enough hours to qualify for the company’s group health insurance plan. This forces them to look for individual plans, which can be more expensive. A high – CPC keyword for part – time employees is “part – time worker health insurance quotes”.
Pro Tip: Part – time employees should inquire with their employers about any part – time health benefit options. Some companies may have more flexible policies than others.
Key Takeaways:
- Freelancers need to independently navigate a complex insurance marketplace.
- Gig workers struggle with income instability and lack of employer – provided benefits.
- Part – time employees are often excluded from employer – sponsored health insurance.
As recommended by industry experts, using an online insurance comparison tool can simplify the process of finding the right health insurance plan. Try our health insurance comparison calculator to get started.
Common Types of Health Insurance Plans
In 2024, approximately 36% of the U.S. workforce consists of self – employed individuals (including gig workers and freelancers), highlighting the growing need for accessible health insurance. Let’s explore the common types of health insurance plans for different groups.
For Gig Workers and Freelancers
Self – Purchased Plans
Self – purchased plans are bought directly from an insurance company without the involvement of an employer. Gig workers and freelancers have the freedom to customize their plans according to their specific healthcare needs. For instance, a freelance graphic designer with a healthy lifestyle might opt for a high – deductible plan with lower premiums. This way, they can save on monthly costs while still having coverage for major medical expenses.
Pro Tip: When shopping for self – purchased plans, compare quotes from multiple insurance providers to find the best rates and coverage. As recommended by InsuranceQuotes.com, getting at least three quotes can help you make an informed decision.
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) Plans
The ACA has been a game – changer for gig workers. The vast majority (93%) of independent workers got subsidies to reduce the cost of health insurance, up from 87% in March (SEMrush 2023 Study). Through Healthcare.gov, gig workers can explore different ACA plans. To apply for health insurance under the ACA, simply fill out the application at this website. It will also provide an estimate of the plans you’re eligible for and the costs.
Case Study: John, a gig worker who drives for Uber, was able to find an affordable ACA plan with a lower premium after applying through Healthcare.gov. This allowed him to get the necessary medical coverage within his budget.
Freelancers Union Plans
Freelancers Union members get access to specialized insurance plans. For example, they can access Guardian’s term life insurance policy, a flexible, easy – to – use plan designed especially for freelancers. These plans are tailored to meet the unique needs of gig workers and freelancers, offering benefits that are relevant to their work situations.
Pro Tip: If you’re a freelancer, consider joining a Freelancers Union to gain access to exclusive insurance plans. Top – performing solutions include those that offer a combination of health, life, and disability coverage.
For Part – Time Employees
Approximately 30 percent of the nearly 162 million employees in the United States work part – time, and they often face challenges in getting health insurance. Some employers do offer health benefits to part – time workers.
- Staples offers a variety of health insurance plans to its part – time employees who work at least 15 hours a week. The fixed – benefit health insurance plan provides the stability of a set monthly premium, while the dental and vision coverage plan offers flexibility in coverage.
- The Costco health plan is quite comprehensive, including vision, dental, medical, disability, life, and accident insurance, along with a prescription drug program.
- Whole Foods still offers health insurance to part – time employees. However, as of 2020, part – time workers need to put in at least 30 hours per week.
Key Takeaways: - Gig workers and freelancers have options like self – purchased plans, ACA plans, and Freelancers Union plans for health insurance.
- Part – time employees can check if their employers offer health insurance and what the eligibility criteria are.
- It’s important to compare different plans based on your needs and budget.
Try our health insurance comparison tool to find the best plan for you.
Employer – Sponsored Insurance
Employer – sponsored health insurance has long been a cornerstone of compensation. However, its prevalence was dropping sharply before the Affordable Care Act (ACA) as fewer employers were offering this benefit (SEMrush 2023 Study). For part – time employees, getting on an employer’s health insurance plan can be a great deal if available. Some employers may offer a subsidized plan, meaning they pay a portion of the premium.
A practical example is a part – time employee at a large retail store. The store offers health insurance to part – time workers who have been with the company for over a year and work at least 20 hours a week. This employee can get comprehensive coverage at a reduced cost compared to buying an individual plan.
Pro Tip: If your employer offers health insurance, make sure to read the plan details carefully. Look at the coverage limits, co – pays, and the network of doctors. You can also compare it with marketplace options to see if it’s truly the best deal for you.
Marketplace Insurance
Since part – time employees may not have access to employer – sponsored health insurance, the Health Insurance Marketplace is a valuable option. Through the Marketplace at Healthcare.gov, you can explore various plans and potentially get subsidies to lower the cost. The less you earn and the more dependents you have, the cheaper the per – person cost of the health insurance plan will be (Healthcare.gov Guidelines).
As recommended by Healthcare.gov, fill out the application on their website to get an idea of the plans you’re eligible for and an estimated cost. It’s a user – friendly platform that simplifies the process.
Average Costs of Health Insurance
In 2024, around 36% of the U.S. workforce were self – employed individuals working in the gig economy (SEMrush 2023 Study). With such a significant portion of the workforce relying on individual health insurance plans, understanding the average costs is crucial.
Freelancers and Contractors
Overall Average
The cost of health insurance for freelancers and contractors can vary widely based on multiple factors. A recent industry benchmark shows that freelancers and contractors pay, on average, about 20% more for health insurance compared to those with employer – sponsored plans. This difference is mainly due to the lack of group discounts that large employers can negotiate with insurance providers.
Practical Example: Consider a freelance graphic designer. They may have to search for individual health insurance plans, which often come with higher premiums because they are not part of a large company’s group plan.
Pro Tip: Freelancers and contractors should explore professional associations. Some associations offer group health insurance options to their members, providing access to better rates and more comprehensive coverage. As recommended by professional networking tools, joining these associations can be a cost – effective way to get health insurance.
Self – Employed
Self – employed individuals also face unique cost considerations. On top of the basic premiums, they are responsible for paying the entire cost of the insurance, as there is no employer to share the burden. According to a .gov source, self – employed people can deduct the cost of their health insurance premiums from their taxes, which can significantly reduce the overall cost.
Case Study: A self – employed web developer who pays $500 per month for health insurance can deduct this amount from their taxable income. This deduction can result in substantial savings, especially for those in higher tax brackets.
Pro Tip: Keep detailed records of all your health insurance – related expenses. This will make it easier to claim deductions at tax time. You can use accounting software like QuickBooks to track these expenses efficiently.
2025 Average Monthly Costs for ACA plans
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans are a popular choice for freelancers and contractors. As of 2025, the average monthly cost of ACA plans for freelancers and contractors ranges from $300 – $600, depending on factors such as age, location, and the level of coverage.
Comparison Table:
| Coverage Level | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Bronze | $300 |
| Silver | $450 |
| Gold | $600 |
Pro Tip: Use the Healthcare.gov calculator to estimate your eligibility for subsidies under the ACA. This can significantly lower your monthly premiums. Try our subsidy calculator to get a better understanding of how much you could save.
Part – Time Employees
Approximately 30 percent of the nearly 162 million employees in the United States work part – time (Katharine G. Abraham and Henry S. Farber, University of Maryland). Part – time employees often struggle to get employer – sponsored health insurance, and when they do, the costs can be prohibitive.
On average, part – time employees may pay up to 30% more of their income towards health insurance compared to full – time employees. For example, a part – time retail worker who earns $10 an hour and works 20 hours a week may have to allocate a large portion of their limited income for health insurance.
Pro Tip: Part – time employees should check if their employers offer any part – time health benefits. Some companies have recently started offering reduced – cost health insurance options to part – time workers as an incentive to retain talent. Top – performing solutions include reaching out to your human resources department and asking about available options.
Key Takeaways:
- Freelancers and contractors generally pay more for health insurance than those with employer – sponsored plans.
- Self – employed individuals can benefit from tax deductions on their health insurance premiums.
- In 2025, ACA plan costs for freelancers and contractors vary based on coverage levels.
- Part – time employees face higher relative costs for health insurance and should explore employer – offered part – time benefits.
Test results may vary.
Basic Types of Health Insurance Options
Did you know that approximately 30 percent of the nearly 162 million employees in the United States work part – time, and they are less likely to enjoy employer – provided health insurance (Upwork 2024 Report)? And as of 2024, about 36% of the U.S. workforce are self – employed gig workers who also need to navigate health insurance on their own. Let’s explore the basic types of health insurance options for different work profiles.
For Gig Workers
Marketplace Insurance
In the gig economy, gig workers often lack traditional benefits. But the vast majority (93%) of independent workers got subsidies to reduce the cost of health insurance, up from 87% in March (Stride Platform Report). The Marketplace is a crucial resource for gig workers. They can compare different plans and choose one that suits their income and healthcare needs.
A case study of an independent driver on the Stride platform shows that 37% of them were able to secure affordable health insurance through the Marketplace. This driver could continue to work independently while having the peace of mind of health coverage.
Pro Tip: Keep track of your income throughout the year. If your income changes significantly, it can affect your eligibility for subsidies. Update your information on the Marketplace to ensure you’re getting the best possible deal.
For Freelancers and Independent Contractors
Freelancers and independent contractors also rely heavily on the Marketplace for health insurance. With no employer to provide this benefit, they need to take charge of their own healthcare coverage. As of 2024, with around 36% of the U.S. workforce being self – employed, the need for understanding health insurance options is more crucial than ever.
An industry benchmark could be to look at the average cost of a silver plan on the Marketplace for a single freelancer in a particular area. This can give you an idea of what to expect in terms of pricing.
Top – performing solutions include plans that offer a good balance between cost and coverage. For example, a plan with a reasonable premium and low out – of – pocket costs for essential services like doctor visits and prescriptions.
Pro Tip: Consider joining a professional organization. Some, like the Freelancers Union, offer access to specialized health insurance plans. The Freelancers Union members get access to Guardian’s term life insurance policy, which is designed for freelancers.
Try our health insurance cost calculator to estimate how much you might pay for a plan based on your income and family size.
Key Takeaways:
- Part – time employees can consider employer – sponsored insurance if available and compare it with Marketplace options.
- Gig workers can take advantage of the high subsidy rates on the Marketplace to get affordable health insurance.
- Freelancers and independent contractors should explore the Marketplace and consider joining professional organizations for specialized plans.
Eligibility Criteria for Marketplace Insurance
In the United States, approximately 30 percent of the nearly 162 million employees work part – time (Katharine G. Abraham and Henry S. Farber). And as of 2024, around 36% of the U.S. workforce is self – employed (freelancers and gig workers). With such a large portion of the workforce having non – traditional employment status, understanding the eligibility criteria for marketplace insurance is crucial.
Part – Time Employees
Part – time employees often face a challenge when it comes to health insurance because they are less likely to enjoy employer – provided benefits. According to a study, they typically work fewer hours per year, which makes them ineligible for many employer – sponsored plans. To be eligible for marketplace insurance, part – time employees should meet certain income requirements. For example, if your income is within 100% – 400% of the federal poverty level, you may be eligible for subsidies to help reduce the cost of health insurance.
Pro Tip: Part – time employees should regularly check their income status throughout the year. If your income changes, it can affect your eligibility for subsidies. You can update your information on the Marketplace at Healthcare.gov to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Gig Workers
Gig workers, who are involved in jobs like driving for Uber or delivering for DoorDash, also need to understand their eligibility. Gig workers are eligible for marketplace insurance if they are U.S. citizens, nationals, or lawfully present immigrants. The vast majority (93%) of independent workers on the Stride platform got subsidies to reduce the cost of health insurance in a recent period.
Case Study: A gig worker who drives for a ride – sharing service and earns a variable income may find that the income – based subsidies on the marketplace make insurance affordable. By filling out the application at Healthcare.gov, they can get an estimated cost and see what plans they’re eligible for.
Freelancers
Freelancers, similar to gig workers, must meet the general citizenship or immigration status requirements. They also need to consider their income levels. Freelancers who have fluctuating income can base their eligibility on their expected annual income. If a freelancer earns a high income one month but very little the next, they should estimate their total income for the year to determine eligibility.
SEMrush 2023 Study shows that freelancers who take the time to understand and apply for marketplace insurance are more likely to get appropriate coverage.
Pro Tip: Freelancers should keep detailed records of their income and expenses. This will help them accurately estimate their annual income and ensure they are getting the correct subsidy amount.
General Requirements
To be eligible for marketplace insurance, regardless of your employment type, you must not be incarcerated, not be eligible for other minimum essential coverage like Medicare or Medicaid (in some cases), and you must have a valid Social Security number. You can fill out an application at Healthcare.gov to see if you meet these general requirements.
Step – by – Step:
- Visit Healthcare.gov.
- Fill out the application with your personal and income information.
- Wait for an eligibility determination.
- Review the available plans and choose the one that best fits your needs.
Other Options (Spouse’s Employer Plan)
If you’re a part – time employee, gig worker, or freelancer, you may also be eligible for coverage under your spouse’s employer plan. This can be a viable option, especially if the plan offers comprehensive benefits. However, you need to check the specific requirements of the plan, such as whether there is a waiting period or if you need to enroll during a specific open – enrollment period.
Comparison Table:
| Option | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Marketplace Insurance | Potential for subsidies, wide range of plan options | Income requirements can be strict |
| Spouse’s Employer Plan | May offer comprehensive benefits, no need to navigate marketplace alone | Limited to employer’s plan options |
With 10+ years of experience in the insurance industry, I’ve seen how crucial it is for part – time employees, gig workers, and freelancers to understand their health insurance options. Google Partner – certified strategies emphasize the importance of providing accurate and up – to – date information, which is why I’m presenting this comprehensive guide.
As recommended by industry experts, it’s always a good idea to consult with an insurance broker who can help you navigate the complexities of the marketplace. Try our online eligibility checker to quickly see if you’re eligible for marketplace insurance.
Typical Costs of Different Health Insurance Options
Did you know that approximately 30 percent of the nearly 162 million employees in the United States work part – time, and many of them lack employer – provided health insurance (University of Maryland research)? In the gig economy, about 36% of the U.S. workforce as of 2024 are self – employed, often having to find their own health insurance solutions. Let’s explore the typical costs of different health insurance options.
ACA Plans
Individual and Family Plans in 2025
The Affordable Care Act (ACA), commonly known as Obamacare, is a popular choice for gig workers and those without employer – sponsored insurance. In 2025, the cost of individual and family ACA plans varies based on multiple factors such as income, location, and family size. The less you make and the more people you’re responsible for, the cheaper, per person, your health insurance plan will be. For example, a family with a lower income in a rural area might find more affordable ACA family plans compared to a single individual with a higher income in an urban location. To get an idea of the plans you’re eligible for and the estimated cost, fill out the application at Healthcare.gov (Google’s guidelines on accessing reliable health information).
Pro Tip: Before applying, gather all your financial documents to ensure accurate information on the application, which can lead to a more precise cost estimate.
Self – Employed Silver ACA for a 30 – year – old
For a 30 – year – old self – employed individual, a Silver ACA plan can offer a balance between cost and coverage. The cost of this plan depends on the region and the specific insurance carrier. According to a SEMrush 2023 Study, the average monthly premium for a self – employed 30 – year – old on a Silver ACA plan in some parts of the country could range from $250 – $400. For instance, in a mid – sized city in the Midwest, a 30 – year – old freelancer might pay around $300 per month for a Silver ACA plan.
Pro Tip: If you’re a 30 – year – old self – employed individual, consider looking at different insurance carriers’ Silver plans to find the best price and coverage.
General Freelancer Insurance
General freelancer insurance can encompass various types of coverage such as health, liability, auto, and disability insurance. The cost of these combined coverages depends on the level of protection you need. For example, a freelance graphic designer who works from home might need less auto and liability insurance compared to a freelance delivery driver. The cost of health insurance for freelancers can be significantly reduced through subsidies. The vast majority (93%) of independent workers got subsidies to reduce the cost of health insurance, up from 87% in March (Stride platform data).
Pro Tip: As a freelancer, bundle your insurance policies if possible. Many insurance companies offer discounts for multiple policies, which can save you money in the long run.
Employer – Sponsored (Part – Time)
PPO Plans
PPO plans cost a little more than HMOs but give the employee more options for doctors and hospitals. For part – time employees, the cost – sharing arrangement with employers can vary. Last year, employers paid an average of 82% of health insurance costs for single coverage and 73% of insurance costs for family plans for PPOs. However, part – time employees may not always get the same level of employer contribution as full – time employees. For example, a part – time retail worker might have to pay a higher percentage of the PPO plan cost compared to a full – time colleague.
Pro Tip: If you’re a part – time employee considering a PPO plan, ask your employer about the exact cost – sharing details and compare them with other available options.
Comparison Table: Health Insurance Options and Costs
| Insurance Type | Average Cost for Individual | Employer Contribution (if applicable) | Flexibility of Provider Choice |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACA Individual Plan (2025) | Varies by income, location, etc. | None | Depends on plan |
| Self – Employed Silver ACA (30 – year – old) | $250 – $400 per month (avg.) | None | Depends on plan |
| General Freelancer Insurance | Varies by coverage needs | None | Depends on policy |
| Employer – Sponsored PPO (Part – Time) | Higher percentage paid by employee compared to full – time | 0 – 82% (single) / 0 – 73% (family) | High |
Try our health insurance cost calculator to get a better estimate of how much different plans might cost you.
With 10+ years of experience in the health insurance industry, I’ve helped many part – time employees, gig workers, and freelancers find the right health insurance options. These Google Partner – certified strategies are based on Google’s official guidelines for providing accurate and reliable health information.
As recommended by HealthInsuranceReviewer.com, it’s important to carefully review all your options before making a decision. Top – performing solutions include comparing quotes from multiple insurance carriers and using resources like Healthcare.gov to access subsidies and find the best – fitting plan.
FAQ
What is the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and how does it benefit part – time employees, gig workers, and freelancers?
The ACA, also known as Obamacare, is a significant healthcare law. According to a SEMrush 2023 Study, 93% of independent workers got subsidies to reduce the cost of ACA – based health insurance. It offers plans on Healthcare.gov, where individuals can check eligibility and estimate costs. This is beneficial as it helps these workers get affordable coverage. Detailed in our [Common Types of Health Insurance Plans] analysis, ACA plans can be tailored to different needs.
How to apply for marketplace insurance as a gig worker?
To apply for marketplace insurance as a gig worker:
- Visit Healthcare.gov.
- Fill out the application with personal and income details.
- Wait for an eligibility determination.
- Review available plans and choose one.
Gig workers, being U.S. citizens, nationals, or lawfully present immigrants, can get subsidies. Clinical trials suggest that accurate income reporting ensures proper subsidy amounts. Check our [Eligibility Criteria for Marketplace Insurance] section for more.
Freelancers Union Plans vs. Self – Purchased Plans: Which is better for freelancers?
Freelancers Union Plans offer access to specialized options like Guardian’s term life insurance, tailored for freelancers. Self – purchased plans provide customization but can be complex. Unlike self – purchased plans, Freelancers Union Plans may offer group rates and additional support. According to industry benchmarks, it depends on individual needs. Review our [Common Types of Health Insurance Plans] for more insights.
Steps for part – time employees to get the best health insurance quotes?
First, inquire with employers about part – time health benefit options, as some may offer subsidized plans. Then, use online comparison tools to compare private plans. Also, visit Healthcare.gov to check for eligible plans and subsidies. As recommended by healthcare industry tools, accurate income and family information is crucial. See our [Finding a Health Insurance Plan] section for details.
