Health Coverage for the Self-Employed, Farmers, and Ranchers

When you work for yourself, there is no employer benefits department choosing a health plan for you. Farmers, ranchers, contractors, and small business owners often have to find and pay for their own coverage.

For many self-employed families, individual and family health plans through the Health Insurance Marketplace can be a starting point. Depending on household income and other circumstances, you may qualify for premium tax credits or other assistance that can reduce the cost of coverage.

Income can be harder to estimate when it depends on weather, commodity prices, business activity, or the season. Because Marketplace eligibility and savings are based in part on your expected household income for the year, it’s important to report changes when your income or circumstances change.

Self-employed individuals may also qualify for a self-employed health insurance deduction, subject to applicable tax rules and eligibility requirements. Some high-deductible health plans may also be paired with a Health Savings Account (HSA), which can provide tax advantages when used according to applicable rules. A qualified tax professional can help determine what applies to your situation.

Some families also consider alternatives such as Medi-Share, a health care sharing ministry that is not health insurance. Understanding the differences between health insurance, health care sharing, premiums, deductibles, networks, and out-of-pocket costs can help you compare your options.

For farmers, ranchers, and self-employed families, health coverage is another part of protecting both your family and the operation you’ve worked to build.

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