The Navigator Resource Guide has not been updated for 2025 Open Enrollment. For more current information please visit:
cms.gov/marketplace/in-person-assisters/information-partners.
QUESTION

I own my own business and have no employees, what are my options?

Individuals with no coverage | Individuals with coverage | Coverage for small employers | Navigating Health Insurance Marketplace Options | Individual and Marketplace Health Coverage | Coverage for Employees of a Small Employer | Small Employer Coverage |
ANSWER

While you are not eligible to purchase small group health insurance or SHOP coverage in most states, you can purchase individual market coverage and may be able to qualify for financial assistance through the health insurance Marketplace for individuals. Note, however, that some states may allow you to purchase small group health insurance as a “sole proprietor.”

To find out if your state allows business owners with no employees to enroll in small group coverage, check with your state’s insurance department. (42 U.S.C. § 18024; 45 C.F.R. § 144.03 (definition of “small employer”).)

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Individuals with no coverage
Individuals with coverage
Coverage for small employers
Post enrollment issues