Are you a gig worker?

What is gig work?

Gig work is increasingly popular due to the flexibility and autonomy it offers. It involves short-term contracts or freelance work. Platforms like Uber, Lyft and Shipt allow individuals to set their own schedules and work from anywhere. Other examples of gig work include dog walking, virtual assistance, and freelance writing. These roles are free from the constraints of traditional long-term contracts.

If you are a gig worker, one of the challenges you may face is having to find your own health coverage. This is because traditional employment models usually offer employer-sponsored health coverage, which includes benefits like medical, dental and vision coverage. Gig workers must often secure their own health coverage. Fortunately, there are affordable options so you don't go uninsured.

Health coverage options for gig workers

An Individual plan is ideal for those not covered by employer-sponsored health plans or government programs like Medicare or Medicaid. Individual plans offer flexibility with various coverage options, allowing you to choose the level of benefits that best meet your needs and budget. Each plan has its own costs and coverage, helping you find the right balance between saving money and staying healthy. 

High-deductible health plans

If you're part of the gig economy, consider a high-deductible health plan (HDHP). With an HDHP, you can open a Health Savings Account (HSA), a tax-advantaged savings account for medical expenses. Contributions to an HSA are made with pre-tax dollars, which can lower your taxable income.

• It's a good plan choice for gig workers aiming to prepare for future health care costs while enjoying tax benefits.
• A high-deductible health plan can be a good option for people who are young and tend to be healthy.
• Before enrolling in an HSA plan, it is crucial to evaluate your financial circumstances carefully.
• With an HSA, you will need to cover a high deductible before your coverage begins.

All MyPriority^® plans offer chronic conditions coverage for the cost of a copayment or coinsurance before deductible, including HDHPs. This coverage gives members access to a variety of medical services, supplies and medications they need to help them live a happy life, while managing their chronic conditions.

How to save on health plan costs

The good news is there are multiple ways to save on your health plan costs. Two types of financial assistance are available to those shopping for Individual health plans. One type of financial assistance is the advanced premium tax credit (APTC). This tax credit can be applied in advance to lower your monthly premiums on your health plan. Did you know that four out of five consumers qualify for a plan for $10 or less per month¹?

The other financial assistance available is called cost-sharing reductions (CSRs). When you enroll in a Silver metal plan, you could qualify for CSRs, which lower your out-of-pocket costs for things like deductibles, copayments and coinsurance. You can receive CSRs in addition to the tax credit.

Don't risk the financial burden of going uninsured; if you or a loved one suffers an unexpected medical emergency a 3-day hospital visit can cost up to $30,000². Read more about how to save on health coverage.

When you get a free quote for a MyPriority plan, we'll check to see if you qualify for these subsidies.

Take the first step

As a gig worker, you may feel that you don't have the option for health coverage. Although you may not have traditional employer-sponsored health coverage, there are options available for you.

It's important to enroll in a health plan that you can rely on and that will be available when you need it. As a Michigan-based company, Priority Health is passionate about improving the health and well-being of our communities. Because we're not just your doctors and pharmacists, we're your friends and neighbors, too.

MyPriority Individual and family plans provide reliable options for comprehensive medical services, virtual care, mental health support, chronic condition coverage, prescription drugs,  preventive care and more.