Can I get health insurance if I'm self-employed in Greene County, VA?

Yes, self-employed individuals in Greene County can purchase health insurance through Marketplace Virginia (HealthCare.gov). You may qualify for significant subsidies based on your household income, making plans much more affordable than their sticker price. Virginia's marketplace offers HMO, PPO, and EPO plan types from multiple carriers.

How do subsidies work for self-employed health insurance in Virginia?

Subsidies, known as Advance Premium Tax Credits (APTCs), are available to eligible self-employed individuals and families in Virginia with incomes between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). These credits can be applied directly to your monthly premiums, reducing your out-of-pocket costs. The exact amount depends on your income, household size, and the cost of the benchmark Silver plan in Greene County.

What if my self-employment income is low in Greene County?

If your income is below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level, you may qualify for Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus), which provides comprehensive health coverage with little to no cost. Virginia expanded Medicaid in 2019, ensuring more adults have access to affordable healthcare. You can apply through commonhelp.virginia.gov.

What types of plans are available for the self-employed in Greene County?

Marketplace Virginia offers various plan types, including Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs), and Exclusive Provider Organizations (EPOs). PPO plans are available on-exchange in Virginia, giving you a wider choice of providers and networks. In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 8, which includes Greene County.

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

Self-Employed Health Insurance in Greene County, Virginia

Self-employed individuals in Greene County can access subsidized health plans through Marketplace Virginia, with premiums potentially reduced by Advance Premium Tax Credits.
Virginia's marketplace offers a choice of HMO, PPO, and EPO plans, with 6 carriers providing options in Rating Area 8 for 2026.
Individuals with incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level may qualify for Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus), offering comprehensive, low-cost coverage.
The average uninsured rate in Greene County is 6.8%, lower than the national average, indicating successful access to coverage options for many residents.

Navigating health insurance as a self-employed individual in Greene County, Virginia, offers several robust options designed to make coverage affordable and accessible. Unlike traditional employer-sponsored plans, self-employed individuals typically purchase coverage through the health insurance marketplace, known as Marketplace Virginia (HealthCare.gov). Here, you can find plans that comply with the Affordable Care Act (ACA), offering comprehensive benefits and, crucially, financial assistance to lower your monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs based on your income and household size. Virginia expanded Medicaid in 2019, providing another vital pathway to coverage for those with lower incomes.

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Understanding Your Health Insurance Options in Greene County

For self-employed residents of Greene County, your primary avenue for obtaining health insurance is through Marketplace Virginia. This platform allows you to compare various plans, understand their benefits, and determine your eligibility for subsidies. The marketplace in Virginia offers a range of plan types, including Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs), and Exclusive Provider Organizations (EPOs). Importantly, PPO plans ARE available on-exchange in Virginia, providing more flexibility in choosing providers than in some other states. Greene County, with a population of 21,155, is part of Virginia Rating Area 8, which also covers Accomack, Albemarle, Amelia, Amherst, Appomattox, Bland, Brunswick, Buckingham, Campbell, Caroline, Charlotte, Charlottesville, Cumberland, Danville, Emporia, Essex, Fluvanna, Giles, Gloucester, Greensville, Halifax, Henry, King William, King and Queen, Lancaster, Louisa, Lunenburg, Lynchburg, Martinsville, Mathews, Mecklenburg, Middlesex, Nelson, Northumberland, Nottoway, Patrick, Pittsylvania, Prince Edward, Prince George, Sussex, Westmoreland, Winchester counties. The county's median income is $89,808, and its uninsured rate is 6.8%, per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates. Greene County has no acute care hospitals within its boundaries, meaning residents often travel to neighboring counties for hospital services.

Subsidies and Financial Assistance

The ACA marketplace provides two main types of financial assistance to make health insurance more affordable for the self-employed:

Advance Premium Tax Credits (APTCs): These subsidies reduce your monthly premium payments. Eligibility is based on your household income relative to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Self-employed individuals and families with incomes between 100% and 400% FPL typically qualify.
Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs): These subsidies lower your out-of-pocket costs like deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. They are available to individuals and families with incomes up to 250% FPL who enroll in a Silver-tier plan.

It's crucial to estimate your annual self-employment income accurately when applying to ensure you receive the correct amount of financial aid. Changes in income throughout the year should be reported to the marketplace to adjust your subsidies.

Virginia Medicaid for Self-Employed Individuals

Virginia expanded its Medicaid program (Virginia Medicaid Expansion / FAMIS Plus) in 2019. This means that if your household income falls below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level, you may qualify for comprehensive health coverage at little to no cost. This is a significant benefit for self-employed individuals who might experience fluctuating income or periods of lower earnings. Applying for Virginia Medicaid is done through commonhelp.virginia.gov. Additionally, Virginia offers specific programs for pregnant women and children:

FAMIS Moms: Covers pregnant women with income up to 200% FPL, including prenatal care, delivery, and 12 months of postpartum care.
FAMIS (Family Access to Medical Insurance Security): Covers uninsured children in households up to 200% FPL. For children between 200% and 400% FPL, FAMIS Select offers low-cost coverage.

Health Insurance Carriers in Greene County

In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 8, which includes Greene County. These carriers provide a variety of plan options across different metal tiers (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum), allowing self-employed individuals to choose a plan that best fits their budget and healthcare needs.

CareFirst BlueChoice
Cigna
HealthKeepers
Oscar Health
Sentara Health Plans
United Healthcare

When reviewing plans, consider the network of doctors and hospitals, the monthly premium, and the out-of-pocket costs (deductible, copay, coinsurance). Since Greene County has no acute care hospitals, residents should verify that the plan's network includes facilities in neighboring counties that they would typically access.

Choosing the Right Plan for Your Self-Employment Needs

Selecting the best health insurance plan involves balancing costs, coverage, and flexibility. Here’s a breakdown of common plan tiers and what they offer:

Plan Tier	Key Features	Best For
Bronze	Lowest monthly premiums, highest deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums. Covers essential health benefits.	Healthy individuals who want protection from catastrophic medical costs and can afford higher out-of-pocket costs if needed.
Silver	Moderate premiums, moderate deductibles. Eligible for Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs) if income qualifies.	Individuals and families who qualify for subsidies and anticipate moderate medical use, or those who want CSRs for lower out-of-pocket costs.
Gold	Higher monthly premiums, lower deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums. More comprehensive coverage before deductible.	Individuals who expect significant medical care, have chronic conditions, or prefer to pay more upfront for lower costs when care is needed.
Catastrophic	Very low premiums, very high deductibles. Available to those under 30 or with hardship exemptions.	Very healthy individuals who want minimal coverage for emergencies and have limited income. Not eligible for premium subsidies.

Consider your expected healthcare usage, financial situation, and whether you want lower monthly payments or lower costs when you receive care. For many self-employed individuals, a Silver plan with Cost-Sharing Reductions can offer the best balance of premium and out-of-pocket cost savings.

Next Steps for Self-Employed Health Coverage

As a self-employed individual in Greene County, understanding your options is the first step towards securing stable health coverage.

Estimate Your Income: Carefully project your annual household income to determine your eligibility for premium subsidies and Cost-Sharing Reductions.
Explore Marketplace Virginia: Visit HealthCare.gov to browse plans available in Rating Area 8. Compare premiums, deductibles, and networks for CareFirst BlueChoice, Cigna, HealthKeepers, Oscar Health, Sentara Health Plans, and United Healthcare.
Check Medicaid Eligibility: If your income is below 138% FPL, apply for Virginia Medicaid through commonhelp.virginia.gov.
Consider a Licensed Agent: A licensed health insurance producer can help you navigate the marketplace, understand complex subsidy calculations, and choose a plan that aligns with your specific needs, all at no cost to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I deduct health insurance premiums as a self-employed person?

Yes, if you are self-employed and not eligible for an employer-sponsored health plan, you can generally deduct the premiums you pay for health insurance, including those for your spouse and dependents. This deduction is taken as an adjustment to income, rather than an itemized deduction, which can be a significant tax benefit. Consult with a tax professional for specific advice on your situation.

What if my income changes during the year?

It is crucial to report any significant changes in your household income or family size to Marketplace Virginia as soon as possible. Changes in income can affect your eligibility for subsidies, and updating your information ensures you receive the correct amount of financial assistance. Failing to report changes could result in owing money back at tax time or missing out on additional subsidies.

Are dental and vision plans included in self-employed health insurance?

While ACA-compliant health plans cover essential health benefits, adult dental and vision care are generally not included. You can purchase separate standalone dental and vision plans through Marketplace Virginia or directly from private insurers. Pediatric dental and vision coverage, however, is considered an essential health benefit and is included in all ACA-compliant plans for children.

What is the enrollment period for self-employed health insurance?

The primary time to enroll in or change a health insurance plan is during the annual Open Enrollment Period, which typically runs from November 1 to January 15 each year. Outside of this period, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) if you experience a qualifying life event, such as getting married, having a baby, or losing other health coverage.