What are my health insurance options when I'm self-employed?

Without an employer plan, your main routes are the ACA marketplace (HealthCare.gov or your state exchange), a spouse's employer plan, COBRA from a former job, or a private off-exchange policy. For most freelancers the ACA marketplace is the practical choice because it's the only place you can get income-based premium subsidies. You can enroll during open enrollment each fall or after a qualifying life event like leaving a job. Plans come in metal tiers — Bronze, Silver, Gold — trading premium against deductible. A high-deductible Bronze or Silver plan that's HSA-eligible can pair well with a health savings account. Don't go uninsured to save money; a single hospital stay can wipe out years of savings. Estimate your annual income carefully when applying, since subsidies are reconciled at tax time. Stress-test the cost in wealthserene.com/tools/insurance-calculator.