Health insurance built around how you actually work.
Private plans offer broader networks, nationwide PPO coverage, and year-round enrollment compared to marketplace plans, with premiums tax-deductible as a self-employment expense. TMRW Benefits is a New York-based brokerage placing private off-exchange plans for self-employed individuals, 1099 contractors, and freelancers across all 50 states.
When does each one win?
An honest tradeoff: marketplace plans can look cheaper on premium with subsidies — but narrow networks, weaker coverage, and gaps in care often push out-of-pocket costs higher over the year, and you lose mobility when your doctor isn't in-network. Private off-exchange doesn't qualify for subsidies, but full PPO networks and stronger coverage often make the total annual cost lower in practice. We walk through both for your situation.
| Situation | Best fit | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Income under 400% FPL · subsidy eligible | Marketplace | Subsidies often beat private pricing |
| Higher income · no subsidy eligibility | Private plan | Often cheaper than marketplace |
| Need to enroll outside Open Enrollment | Private plan | Year-round enrollment |
| Want a broader provider network | Private plan | Typically wider networks |
| Need low premium · accept high deductible | Either — compare | HDHP options on both sides |
The five structures worth knowing.
Preferred Provider
Any provider, no referrals, broader networks, higher premiums. The flexible default.
Health Maintenance
In-network only, PCP referrals required, lower premiums.
Exclusive Provider
In-network only, no referrals. Middle ground between HMO and PPO.
High-Deductible + HSA
Higher deductible, lower premium, paired with a triple-tax-advantaged HSA.
Short-Term Medical
Bridge coverage between jobs. Not ACA-compliant — read the fine print.
Health-Sharing Ministry
Faith-based cost-sharing. Not insurance, not regulated as such.
What working with us actually looks like.
15-minute call
Tell us about your situation, current coverage, and budget.
Composite rates
Our private off-exchange plans, back in minutes. No waiting, easy access.
Enrollment
We handle paperwork. You sign electronically. Plans enroll any month of the year — no Open Enrollment limits on private off-exchange.
Year-round support
Claims, networks, providers — we pick up the phone.
What self-employed clients ask first.
Can a self-employed person get health insurance?
Yes. Private plans offer broader networks, nationwide PPO coverage, and year-round enrollment compared to marketplace plans, with premiums tax-deductible as a self-employment expense for sole proprietors and pass-through entities.
Are private plans cheaper than marketplace plans?
It depends on income. If you qualify for ACA subsidies, marketplace is usually cheaper on premium — but narrower networks and gaps in coverage often push out-of-pocket costs higher over the year. If your household income exceeds the subsidy threshold, private plans are often cheaper outright with stronger coverage.
When can I enroll in a private plan?
Year-round. Unlike marketplace plans (limited to Open Enrollment Nov 1 – Jan 15 or a Special Enrollment Period), most private plans accept enrollments any month — important if you missed OEP, lost coverage mid-year, or are between jobs.
Are health insurance premiums tax-deductible?
Yes. Self-employed individuals can deduct 100% of their health insurance premiums above-the-line on their personal return, reducing AGI. Confirm with your CPA — we are not licensed accountants.
What happens if I lose a 1099 client?
Private and marketplace plans aren't tied to any specific client — they're tied to you. If you lose a major client, your coverage stays active as long as premiums are paid. Major advantage over W-2 employer-sponsored coverage.
Get a second-opinion quote in 10 minutes.
Three quick details and Jesse sends a side-by-side comparison of private off-exchange options against what you have now — honest about when the marketplace actually wins. No obligation, no high-pressure call.