Self-Employed Health Insurance in Henrico County, VA
- Self-employed individuals in Henrico County can access subsidized health plans through Marketplace Virginia (HealthCare.gov).
- Virginia expanded Medicaid in 2019, covering adults with incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level.
- In 2026, 6 carriers offer a variety of HMO, PPO, and EPO plans on the marketplace in Henrico County's Rating Area 3.
- Subsidies can significantly reduce monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs for those earning between 100% and 400% FPL.
Get Your Free Health Insurance Quote
A licensed agent can compare coverage options for you at no cost.
You're all set!
A licensed agent will reach out shortly.
What Health Insurance Options Are Available for the Self-Employed in Henrico County?
Self-employed individuals in Henrico County have several avenues for obtaining health insurance, primarily through the Marketplace Virginia (HealthCare.gov) or Virginia Medicaid. These options are designed to provide comprehensive coverage and financial assistance based on income.Marketplace Plans (ACA Plans)
The Marketplace Virginia (HealthCare.gov) is the most common route for self-employed individuals to find health insurance. Plans purchased here are Affordable Care Act (ACA) compliant, meaning they cover essential health benefits, cannot deny coverage for pre-existing conditions, and have no annual or lifetime limits on care. Premium Tax Credits: If your household income is between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you may qualify for Premium Tax Credits (subsidies) that lower your monthly premium payments. These credits are paid directly to your insurer, reducing your out-of-pocket premium cost. Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs): If your income is between 100% and 250% FPL and you choose a Silver-tier plan, you may also qualify for CSRs. These subsidies reduce your deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums, making healthcare services more affordable when you need them. Plan Tiers: Marketplace plans are categorized into Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum tiers. Bronze plans have the lowest premiums and highest out-of-pocket costs, while Platinum plans have the highest premiums and lowest out-of-pocket costs. Silver plans are unique because they are the only tier eligible for Cost-Sharing Reductions. Plan Types: In Virginia, marketplace shoppers in Henrico County can choose from a variety of plan structures including Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), and Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) plans. PPO plans are available on-exchange in Virginia, offering more flexibility in provider choice compared to HMOs or EPOs.Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus)
Virginia expanded its Medicaid program in 2019 (known as Virginia Medicaid Expansion or FAMIS Plus). This means that self-employed adults in Henrico County with household incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) may qualify for comprehensive health coverage with no monthly premiums or deductibles. Medicaid provides extensive benefits, including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, mental health services, and more. Applying is done through commonhelp.virginia.gov.Off-Marketplace Plans
You can also purchase health insurance directly from an insurance carrier outside of the Marketplace. These plans are also ACA-compliant but do not qualify for Premium Tax Credits or Cost-Sharing Reductions. This option is typically considered if your income exceeds the subsidy eligibility thresholds or if you prefer a plan not offered on the Marketplace.Understanding Income and Subsidy Eligibility for Henrico County Residents
Your income plays a crucial role in determining which health insurance options are most affordable for you in Henrico County. The Federal Poverty Level (FPL) is the benchmark used to calculate eligibility for both Marketplace subsidies and Virginia Medicaid.| Household Income (as % FPL) | Health Insurance Option | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Below 138% FPL | Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus) | Comprehensive coverage, no premiums or deductibles |
| 100% - 138% FPL | Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus) OR Subsidized Marketplace Plans | May qualify for Medicaid; if not, significant Marketplace subsidies (Premium Tax Credits & CSRs) |
| 138% - 250% FPL | Subsidized Marketplace Plans (Silver-tier recommended) | Premium Tax Credits and Cost-Sharing Reductions available on Silver plans |
| 250% - 400% FPL | Subsidized Marketplace Plans | Premium Tax Credits to lower monthly premiums |
| Above 400% FPL | Unsubsidized Marketplace Plans or Off-Marketplace Plans | Full premium responsibility; can still buy ACA-compliant plans |
Health Insurance Carriers in Henrico County
In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 3, which covers Charles City, Chesterfield, Colonial Heights, Dinwiddie, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico, Hopewell, New Kent, Petersburg, Powhatan, Richmond, Richmond counties. These carriers provide a range of plan types including HMO, PPO, and EPO options. The confirmed carriers for Henrico County's Rating Area 3 are:- CareFirst BlueChoice
- Cigna
- HealthKeepers
- Oscar Health
- Sentara Health Plans
- United Healthcare
Choosing the Right Plan for Your Self-Employed Needs in Henrico County
Selecting the best health insurance plan when you are self-employed in Henrico County involves considering your income, expected healthcare usage, and preferred access to doctors and hospitals. The county's population of 335,744, with an uninsured rate of 6.3% per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates, highlights the importance of securing reliable coverage. If your income is below 138% FPL: Apply for Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus). This will provide comprehensive coverage with no premiums or significant out-of-pocket costs. If your income is between 100% and 250% FPL: Strongly consider a Silver-tier plan on the Marketplace Virginia. These plans qualify for both Premium Tax Credits and Cost-Sharing Reductions, drastically lowering both your monthly premiums and the costs you pay when you receive care. If your income is between 250% and 400% FPL: You will qualify for Premium Tax Credits. Compare Bronze, Silver, and Gold plans based on your expected healthcare usage. If you anticipate frequent doctor visits or need regular prescriptions, a Gold plan might offer better value despite a higher premium. If your income is above 400% FPL: You will pay the full premium for any Marketplace or off-Marketplace plan. Compare plans across all tiers and consider both on-exchange and off-exchange options to find the best fit for your budget and medical needs. Henrico County's 2026 health insurance landscape, with 6 confirmed carriers offering plans in Rating Area 3, provides a competitive market for self-employed individuals to find suitable coverage. Henrico Doctors' Hospital serves as the primary acute care facility within the county, and its network inclusion is a key consideration for local residents.Frequently Asked Questions
Can self-employment income be used for ACA subsidy eligibility?
Yes, your net self-employment income (gross income minus eligible business deductions) is counted towards your household Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) for determining eligibility for Premium Tax Credits and Cost-Sharing Reductions on the Marketplace Virginia. It's crucial to accurately estimate your annual income for the upcoming year when applying.
What if my self-employment income changes during the year?
If your self-employment income changes significantly during the year, you should update your income information on HealthCare.gov as soon as possible. Changes in income can affect your subsidy eligibility, potentially leading to higher or lower tax credits. Adjusting promptly helps avoid owing money back at tax time or missing out on additional assistance.
Are self-employed health insurance premiums tax deductible in Virginia?
Yes, generally, self-employed individuals can deduct health insurance premiums from their federal income taxes if they meet certain criteria, such as not being eligible to participate in an employer-sponsored health plan (including through a spouse's employer). This deduction is an "above-the-line" deduction, meaning it reduces your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI). Consult a tax professional for personalized advice.
Does Henrico County have specific health insurance requirements for the self-employed?
Henrico County itself does not impose specific health insurance requirements for self-employed individuals. However, all residents of Virginia, including the self-employed, are subject to federal health insurance regulations under the Affordable Care Act. While there is no longer a federal penalty for not having coverage, having health insurance is crucial for protecting against unexpected medical costs.