insurance for those self-employed

peggy_j

As an FYI, I read an article in our local paper where a man couldn't afford his health insurance (he was self-employed and paying for his insurance as an individual applicant). His workaround: he hired another employee (his wife) as an assistant, and bought group insurance for the two employees. Don't know the details but a health insurance agent should be able help.  (I don't imagine these policies are as generous as the large employers', but it sounded better and cheaper than buying an individual policy and may help with the pre-existing condition issue). FYI in case this helps anyone.

Liz08

Peggy, that's what my husband & I do but the monthly premium was was over $1,500 per month for family coverage with an average of 12-15% annual increase with a $5,200 annual deductible. The "group" plan can charge up to 67% more if you have a pre-existing condition such as cancer, which was applied to me.  Also, some states do offer state insurance (it's not medicaid & not the high risk pool) for those who don't have insurance at affordable rates.   I know CT offers this.      

peggy_j

Lizzy100, wow, that doesn't sound much better than individual plans but...I guess at least you can get insurance w/ the pre-existing condition. If I tried to buy a new policy on my own I'd be uninsurable. CA does offer the state insurance but...you gotta be w/o insurance for 6 months to get it. Can't wait for decent insurance to come.

apple

we own a very small company (under 4 employees) and buy Aetna.. which has great plans.