Top 10 Tips for health insurance as an independent contractor
Millions of Americans are working as independent contractors. You save companies money, and can be very rewarding for the worker. Contractors are responsible for obtaining their own health insurance, for one thing. Unfortunately, a part of that population is not properly classified. How can you tell the difference and how can you find affordable health insurance if you need? Here 10 tips to help you:
- Learn to be a contractor status impacts their health insurance. U.S. Department of Labor believes that up to 30% of companies may place workers in a wrong category, either intentionally or accidentally. Considered a contractor versus an employee is significant. Employers not have to pay unemployment taxes or workers' compensation for contractors, unlike employees. While an employer is not required to offer insurance doctor to an employee, or are more likely to receive that benefit a contractor.
- Make sure you are really an independent contractor, not an employee. The main difference between an employee and a contractor about autonomy and control centers. If you must report to the office every day during specified hours and receive specific allocations, it is generally regarded as an employee. If you can decide when and where to carry out their work, you are a contractor.
- If you have been denied the benefits of group health insurance because they were misclassified as a contractor, report it. You can file a complaint with the Department Working against his company for the new value of the loss of benefits. The IRS is also stepping up enforcement, so you may want to contact them.
- If you are a legitimate contractor, start looking for affordable health insurance as soon as possible. As an independent contractor, you are free to choose among a variety of health insurance plans available. The healthier and younger you are, the more options available. The good news is that you do not have to wait for an open enrollment period for enterprises; just bought a plan that's right away, and can enter into force as soon as the next day – no longer one month later.
- Try to enroll in health insurance from your spouse, if married. In most cases, group health insurance tends to be cheaper than coverage for self-employed. There is also little concern about the policy exclusions. You can often qualify for health insurance through your spouse destination. Of course, if employers or fellow independent contractors (or if married), this route can not be opened for you.
- Choose a high deductible health insurance plan. If you are in good general health, consider buying a small high-deductible individual health insurance plan. Still covers the most essential health care, but usually requires you to pay a certain percentage of the cost of doctor visits and drugs (As opposed to a set co-payment). As a result, premiums are lower. It is better to have less comprehensive coverage for a while of being without insurance, especially if then develop a pre-existing condition.
- Look in any organizations you are a member of the group of bids. Many affinity groups and organizations of different sizes offer discounts on health insurance to its members. These groups include fraternities, sororities, professional associations (including freelancers Union.)
- Think of a guaranteed safe health problem if you have a pre-existing condition. When getting insurance through an employer, your health care rarely. In the open market, is quite the opposite. Most health insurance companies reject him if they believe it will file too many claims. However, insurance is guaranteed issue required by law to accept all applicants. It is slightly more expensive than regular insurance, but there are affordable options.
- Shop around! Prices vary between health insurance companies. Each of the major suppliers (including Aetna, United Healthcare, Blue Cross and Blue Shield) Different plans. One is sure to fit your needs.
- Remember that you are not alone. A quarter of the U.S. workforce consists of contractors independent and other "working" non-traditional. Nearly two-thirds do not enjoy medical insurance from their employers. In addition, stress can cause health problems!
About the Author
Yamileth Medina is an up and coming expert on individual health insurance and healthcare reform. She aims to help people realize that they can find quality health insurance right now. Yamileth lives in Miami, FL.
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