Updated July 2026 · VirginiaPlanFinder.com — Licensed Health Insurance Producer (NPN #21249133)

Health Insurance for Contractors in Highland County, VA

Contractors in Highland County can access comprehensive health insurance through Marketplace Virginia, potentially with subsidies.
Virginia expanded Medicaid (FAMIS Plus) in 2019, covering adults with incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Highland County's Rating Area 5, including PPO, HMO, and EPO options.
Highland County has a population of 2,296 with a 3.9% uninsured rate, per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates.

As a self-employed contractor in Highland County, securing reliable health insurance is crucial for managing your health and finances without employer-sponsored benefits. Fortunately, you have several robust options available through Marketplace Virginia, the state's official health insurance exchange (which utilizes HealthCare.gov). These plans, established under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), offer comprehensive coverage for essential health benefits, and many contractors will qualify for financial assistance to make premiums more affordable. It's important to understand your income, household size, and specific healthcare needs to navigate the choices effectively and find a plan that fits your budget and lifestyle.

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What Health Insurance Options Are Available for Highland County Contractors?

For self-employed contractors in Highland County, the primary avenues for health insurance are Marketplace Virginia (ACA plans), Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus), and off-exchange private plans.

Marketplace Virginia (ACA Plans): This is the most common path for contractors. Plans purchased through Marketplace Virginia are eligible for premium tax credits (subsidies) and cost-sharing reductions, which can significantly lower your monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs based on your income. Coverage includes essential health benefits like doctor visits, prescriptions, hospital stays, and maternity care.
Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus): Virginia expanded Medicaid in 2019. If your income falls below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you may qualify for free or low-cost health coverage through Virginia Medicaid (also known as FAMIS Plus for adults). For a single individual, this threshold is approximately $20,783 annually in 2026. This is a comprehensive option with no premiums and minimal out-of-pocket costs.
Spouse's or Parent's Plan: If you have a spouse with employer-sponsored health insurance, you may be able to join their plan. If you are under 26, you can typically remain on a parent's health insurance plan.
Short-Term Health Plans: These plans offer temporary coverage and are not ACA-compliant. They do not cover essential health benefits, can deny coverage based on pre-existing conditions, and do not qualify for subsidies. They are generally not recommended as a long-term solution for contractors.

How Do ACA Subsidies and Virginia Medicaid Work for Contractors?

Understanding the financial assistance available is key to making health insurance affordable. Your eligibility for subsidies or Virginia Medicaid depends on your estimated household income.

ACA Subsidies

Premium tax credits are available to individuals and families with incomes between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). The American Rescue Plan (ARP) and Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) temporarily enhanced these subsidies, making them more generous and extending eligibility for some higher-income households. These subsidies directly reduce your monthly premium. Cost-sharing reductions (CSRs) are also available for those with incomes up to 250% FPL, further lowering deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums, particularly when enrolling in a Silver-tier plan.

Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus)

Virginia expanded its Medicaid program in 2019, providing coverage to adults with incomes up to 138% FPL. Unlike some states, Virginia does not have a "coverage gap" for this income range. If your income falls below this threshold, you will likely qualify for Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus), which offers comprehensive benefits with no monthly premiums and very low out-of-pocket costs. Applications for Virginia Medicaid can be submitted through commonhelp.virginia.gov. Pregnant women in Virginia (through FAMIS Moms) and children (through FAMIS) have higher income eligibility thresholds, up to 200% FPL, and for children between 200% and 400% FPL, FAMIS Select offers low-cost coverage.

Choosing the Right Plan Tier for Your Needs

Marketplace Virginia offers plans categorized into metal tiers: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. These tiers indicate how you and your plan share costs, not the quality of care.

Bronze Plans: Have the lowest monthly premiums but the highest deductibles and out-of-pocket costs. They cover approximately 60% of healthcare costs, making them suitable for contractors who expect minimal healthcare use or want catastrophic coverage.
Silver Plans: Offer moderate premiums and out-of-pocket costs, covering about 70% of costs. These plans are the only ones eligible for cost-sharing reductions (CSRs) if you qualify, which can significantly reduce your deductibles and copays. This makes Silver plans a strong option for many contractors, especially those with incomes up to 250% FPL.
Gold Plans: Feature higher monthly premiums but lower deductibles and out-of-pocket costs, covering about 80% of costs. They are a good choice for contractors who anticipate regular medical care or prefer more predictable costs.
Platinum Plans: Have the highest premiums but the lowest deductibles and out-of-pocket costs, covering about 90% of costs. These are ideal for contractors who expect extensive medical care and want the most comprehensive coverage.

In Highland County, which is part of Virginia Rating Area 5, the median income is $65,625 and the uninsured rate is 3.9%, per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates. This rural county has a population of 2,296 and no acute care hospitals within its boundaries, meaning residents often travel to neighboring counties for hospital services.

Health Insurance Carriers in Highland County

In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 5, which covers Alleghany, Bath, Bedford, Botetourt, Carroll, Covington, Craig, Floyd, Galax, Grayson, Highland, Montgomery, Pulaski, Radford, Roanoke, Roanoke, Salem, Smyth, Wythe counties. This provides a competitive landscape for contractors seeking coverage. The confirmed carriers for Highland County in 2026 are:

CareFirst BlueChoice
Cigna
HealthKeepers
Oscar Health
Sentara Health Plans
United Healthcare

These carriers offer a mix of plan types, including HMO, PPO, and EPO options, giving contractors flexibility in choosing their network and coverage structure. PPO plans ARE available on-exchange in Virginia, which is a significant advantage for those who prefer broader provider choice without a referral requirement.

Next Steps for Highland County Contractors

Navigating your health insurance options as a contractor involves evaluating your income, health needs, and budget. Here’s a general guide:

Estimate Your Income: Your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) determines your eligibility for subsidies or Virginia Medicaid. Be as accurate as possible, as changes in income can affect your financial assistance.
Check Medicaid Eligibility: If your income is below 138% FPL, apply for Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus) first. It provides comprehensive, low-cost coverage.
Explore Marketplace Plans: If you don't qualify for Medicaid, explore plans on Marketplace Virginia. Use the premium tax credits to lower your monthly costs. Consider Silver plans if your income is below 250% FPL to take advantage of cost-sharing reductions.
Compare Plan Types: Decide between HMO, PPO, or EPO based on your preference for network flexibility and whether you want referrals for specialists.
Seek Expert Guidance: A licensed health insurance agent can provide personalized advice, help you compare plans, and assist with enrollment, all at no cost to you. They can ensure you leverage all available subsidies and choose a plan that best meets your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get health insurance if I'm a self-employed contractor in Highland County?

Yes, self-employed contractors in Highland County can obtain comprehensive health insurance through Marketplace Virginia, the state's official health insurance exchange. Depending on your income, you may qualify for significant subsidies to reduce your monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs.

What are the income limits for Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus) for contractors?

For adults, Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus) covers individuals and families with incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). For a single individual in 2026, this threshold is approximately $20,783 per year. Pregnant women and children have higher income thresholds, up to 200% FPL.

Are PPO plans available on Marketplace Virginia for Highland County contractors?

Yes, PPO plans are available on Marketplace Virginia for residents of Highland County. In 2026, you can choose from HMO, PPO, and EPO plan structures, allowing for greater flexibility in provider networks compared to states that offer only HMO or EPO options on-exchange.

What is the Open Enrollment Period for health insurance in Virginia?

The annual Open Enrollment Period (OEP) for health insurance in Virginia typically runs from November 1st to January 15th for coverage starting the following year. Outside of OEP, you can only enroll if you experience a Qualifying Life Event (QLE), such as losing other coverage, getting married, or having a baby.