Health Insurance for Self-Employed and 1099 Workers in Philadelphia and Our 12-State Service Area


When you work for yourself, finding affordable, quality health insurance can be one of the biggest challenges. As your local health insurance broker in Philadelphia, The Medicare Mensch helps self-employed individuals and 1099 workers—freelancers, contractors, and small business owners—compare plans, find subsidies, and get coverage that fits both their health needs and budget.

Why Self-Employed Health Insurance Is Different

Unlike employees with company-sponsored benefits, independent workers must:

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Pay the full cost of premiums (though subsidies may apply)

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Choose from individual or family plans on the ACA marketplace or off-market options

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Handle renewals and changes themselves unless working with a broker

We make the process easier by reviewing every option for your state, income level, and preferred healthcare providers.

Your Coverage Options

01.

ACA Marketplace Plans

May qualify for premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions based on income

02.

Off-Marketplace Plans

Sometimes offer different networks or benefits not listed on healthcare.gov or Pennie

03.

Catastrophic Coverage

Lower-cost option if you’re under 30 or qualify for a hardship exemption

04.

Short-Term Plans

Temporary coverage while waiting for a longer-term option

Saving Money as a Self-Employed Person

We’ll help you:

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Check eligibility for ACA subsidies

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Compare plans to keep your doctors in-network

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Balance monthly premiums with out-of-pocket costs

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Understand tax deductions for health insurance premiums

Philadelphia and Regional Insights

From Center City to Northern Liberties and beyond, plan networks can vary significantly—even between neighboring ZIP codes. If you work in Philadelphia but live in South Jersey, Delaware, or another licensed state, we’ll make sure your plan works across both areas. We also consider regional hospital systems like Jefferson, Penn Medicine, and Temple Health.


Common Questions from 1099 Workers

  • Can I write off my health insurance premiums?

    Yes, often as a self-employment tax deduction.

  • Do I have to buy insurance through the marketplace?

    No—we can compare off-market options too.

  • Can I change plans mid-year?

    Only with a qualifying life event, but we’ll help you understand your options.

Let’s Find Your Coverage

Schedule your free consultation today. We’ll compare health insurance plans for self-employed individuals in your state, explain the benefits in plain language, and make sure you don’t miss out on savings.

Schedule a Meeting