What is the income limit for Virginia Medicaid for contractors?

In Virginia, adults, including contractors, may qualify for Virginia Medicaid (also known as FAMIS Plus) if their household income is at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). For pregnant women, the income threshold is higher, up to 200% FPL, through FAMIS Moms. Eligibility is based on Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI).

How do I apply for health insurance as a self-employed individual in Goochland County?

You can apply for health insurance through Marketplace Virginia (HealthCare.gov) during the annual Open Enrollment Period, or during a Special Enrollment Period if you experience a qualifying life event. You'll need to provide income estimates and household information to determine your eligibility for subsidies or Virginia Medicaid. A licensed health insurance producer can assist you with the application process at no cost.

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

Health Insurance Tax Deductions for Contractors in Goochland County, VA

Q: Can contractors in Goochland County deduct health insurance premiums?

Yes, self-employed individuals and contractors in Goochland County can often deduct health insurance premiums on their federal income tax return. This deduction typically applies if you are not eligible to participate in an employer-sponsored health plan (from your spouse or another job) and you pay for your own coverage. The deduction is an 'above-the-line' deduction, meaning it reduces your adjusted gross income (AGI).

Q: What types of health plans can I get as a contractor in Goochland County?

As a contractor in Goochland County, you can access individual health insurance plans through Marketplace Virginia (HealthCare.gov). These plans include Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs), and Exclusive Provider Organizations (EPOs). You may also qualify for subsidies to lower your monthly premiums, depending on your income.

Self-employed individuals and contractors in Goochland County may deduct health insurance premiums if not eligible for an employer-sponsored plan.
Marketplace Virginia (HealthCare.gov) offers HMO, PPO, and EPO plans, with potential premium subsidies for eligible incomes.
Virginia Medicaid is available for individuals with household incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Goochland County's Rating Area 3.

For contractors and self-employed individuals in Goochland County, Virginia, understanding how health insurance premiums can impact your taxes is crucial. The good news is that many self-employed individuals are eligible to deduct their health insurance premiums, which can significantly reduce your taxable income. This "above-the-line" deduction is available if you pay for your own health insurance and are not eligible to participate in an employer-sponsored health plan, such as one offered by a spouse's employer. Navigating plan options and eligibility for subsidies through Marketplace Virginia (HealthCare.gov) is the first step to securing affordable coverage that also offers tax advantages.

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Can Contractors Deduct Health Insurance Premiums in Goochland County?

Yes, if you are a self-employed individual or contractor in Goochland County, you can typically deduct the full amount of health, dental, and qualified long-term care insurance premiums you pay for yourself, your spouse, and your dependents. This deduction is available even if you don't itemize deductions. To qualify for the self-employed health insurance deduction, you must meet two primary criteria:

You are self-employed and show a net profit from your business.
You are not eligible to participate in an employer-sponsored health plan through your own employment or your spouse's employment. If you could have been covered by an employer plan, you cannot take the deduction for the months you were eligible.

This deduction applies to premiums paid for plans purchased through Marketplace Virginia (HealthCare.gov) or directly from an insurer. It's a valuable benefit that helps make health insurance more affordable for the self-employed workforce in Virginia.

Finding Health Insurance as a Contractor in Goochland County

As a contractor, your primary avenue for obtaining individual and family health insurance is through Marketplace Virginia (HealthCare.gov). This marketplace allows you to compare various plans and determine your eligibility for financial assistance, which can come in the form of premium tax credits (subsidies) and cost-sharing reductions. Virginia is a state-based marketplace using the federal platform (SBM-FP), meaning residents enroll through HealthCare.gov but benefit from state-specific plan options and regulations. In Goochland County, you'll find a range of plan types, including Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs), and Exclusive Provider Organizations (EPOs). PPO plans are indeed available on-exchange in Virginia, offering more flexibility in provider choice compared to HMOs or EPOs. When choosing a plan, consider your health needs, budget, and the level of flexibility you desire:

Bronze plans: Offer the lowest monthly premiums but have high deductibles and out-of-pocket costs. Best for those who anticipate minimal medical care.
Silver plans: Provide a balance of moderate premiums and out-of-pocket costs. If your income qualifies, you may be eligible for cost-sharing reductions with a Silver plan, which lowers your deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums.
Gold plans: Feature higher monthly premiums but lower deductibles and out-of-pocket costs. Ideal if you expect to use medical services frequently.

Virginia Medicaid and FAMIS for Goochland County Contractors

Virginia expanded its Medicaid program in 2019, making coverage accessible to more low-income adults, including contractors. If your household income is at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you may qualify for Virginia Medicaid (also known as FAMIS Plus). This program provides comprehensive health coverage with no monthly premiums and minimal out-of-pocket costs. For pregnant women in Goochland County, Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Moms) covers those with household incomes up to 200% FPL, providing extensive prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care. Children in households up to 200% FPL can also qualify for the Family Access to Medical Insurance Security (FAMIS) program. These programs are vital safety nets for families and individuals who might otherwise struggle to afford health care. You can apply for these programs through commonhelp.virginia.gov. Goochland County, part of Virginia Rating Area 3, covers a population of 26,410 with a median age of 50.5 years, per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates. The county boasts a low uninsured rate of 2.6% and a poverty rate of 5.1%, significantly better than state averages. Rating Area 3, which covers Charles City, Chesterfield, Colonial Heights, Dinwiddie, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico, Hopewell, New Kent, Petersburg, Powhatan, Richmond, Richmond counties, is served by multiple carriers. Goochland County itself has no acute care hospitals within its boundaries, meaning residents needing acute care typically travel to a neighboring county.

Health Insurance Carriers in Goochland County

When selecting a health insurance plan in Goochland County, it is important to know which carriers offer coverage in your specific rating area. In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 3, which includes Goochland County. These carriers provide a variety of plan options across different metal tiers (Bronze, Silver, Gold). The confirmed carriers offering marketplace plans in Goochland County for the 2026 plan year include:

CareFirst BlueChoice
Cigna
HealthKeepers
Oscar Health
Sentara Health Plans
United Healthcare

It is always recommended to compare plans from all available carriers on Marketplace Virginia (HealthCare.gov) to find the best fit for your specific health needs and financial situation.

Making Your Health Insurance Decision as a Contractor

Choosing the right health insurance plan as a contractor in Goochland County involves balancing coverage needs, budget, and potential tax benefits. Here's a guide to help you decide:

If your income is below 138% FPL: You likely qualify for Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus), which provides comprehensive, low-cost coverage. This is often the best option if you meet the income requirements.
If your income is between 100% and 400% FPL: You are likely eligible for significant premium tax credits (subsidies) through Marketplace Virginia. Consider Silver plans, especially if your income is closer to the lower end of this range, as you may also qualify for cost-sharing reductions that lower your out-of-pocket costs.
If your income is above 400% FPL: You can still purchase a plan through Marketplace Virginia, but you will pay the full premium without subsidies. You can still deduct your premiums as a self-employed individual. Explore Bronze, Silver, and Gold plans based on your anticipated medical usage.

Remember that the self-employed health insurance deduction makes your premiums tax-deductible, effectively reducing the overall cost of your coverage. A licensed health insurance producer can help you navigate these options, compare plans, and ensure you understand how to maximize your benefits, all at no cost to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I deduct health insurance if my spouse has an employer plan?

You can only deduct self-employed health insurance premiums if you are not eligible to participate in an employer-sponsored health plan, including one offered by your spouse's employer. If you had the option to join your spouse's plan but chose not to, you cannot take the deduction.

Do premium tax credits affect the self-employed health insurance deduction?

Yes, if you receive premium tax credits (subsidies) to help pay for your marketplace plan, you can only deduct the portion of the premiums you paid out-of-pocket, after the subsidy has been applied. The amount of the premium covered by the tax credit is not deductible.

What is the difference between an HMO, PPO, and EPO plan in Virginia?

In Virginia, an HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) typically requires you to choose a primary care provider (PCP) and get referrals to see specialists, with coverage limited to a network. A PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) offers more flexibility; you don't usually need a referral to see a specialist and can see out-of-network providers for a higher cost. An EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization) is similar to an HMO in that it generally limits coverage to providers in its network, but you might not need a PCP referral. PPO and EPO plans are available on-exchange in Virginia.

Is dental and vision insurance deductible for contractors?

Yes, if you purchase standalone dental or vision insurance plans for yourself, your spouse, and your dependents, the premiums for these plans can also be included in the self-employed health insurance deduction, provided you meet the same eligibility criteria as for medical insurance.