Start with the two coverage paths.
ACA Marketplace plans cannot deny coverage because of health history and may include income-based savings. Private plans may accept applications during the year but can use medical underwriting.
For freelancers, 1099 contractors and business owners
Health insurance for self-employed people and 1099 contractors
Compare Marketplace coverage, private plans and business-eligibility options based on your household, budget and whether you have an EIN.
An EIN matters for some plans, not every plan.
ACA Marketplace coverage and the Amerus options currently shown by Prestige do not use a general EIN requirement. Certain TRIAD options require qualifying self-employed, 1099 or business-owner status plus an EIN.
Compare more than the monthly price.
Check the deductible, out-of-pocket exposure, provider network, prescriptions, exclusions and whether a displayed price is published or still subject to underwriting.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an EIN to get health insurance?
No. ACA Marketplace coverage and the Amerus options currently shown by Prestige do not use a general EIN requirement. Certain TRIAD options require qualifying self-employed, 1099 or business-owner status plus an EIN. Eligibility and availability still vary.
Can a 1099 contractor apply for private PPO coverage?
Certain private PPO options accept applications from qualifying 1099 contractors with an EIN. Medical underwriting still determines acceptance and final pricing. Other private and ACA options use different eligibility rules.
Can I enroll outside Open Enrollment?
Some private programs accept applications during the year, subject to state availability, eligibility, underwriting and effective-date deadlines. ACA Marketplace enrollment generally requires Open Enrollment or a Special Enrollment Period.
Does medical history affect approval?
Not for ACA Marketplace coverage. Many private plans use medical underwriting, so health history can affect acceptance, price or available terms.
Can private plans receive Marketplace subsidies?
No. Income-based premium tax credits are available only through the Marketplace when the Marketplace determines that a household qualifies.
Are the prices final?
Some programs publish household rates while others show estimates before underwriting. Each price should be read with its label, and underwriting may determine a different final rate.
Prestige Insurance Group is a team of licensed insurance advisors, not the insurer. Product, program and state availability varies. Official documents and executed agreements control.