If you're self-employed, healthy, and earning above the subsidy threshold, your premium likely jumped this year — and healthcare.gov only shows you part of the picture. I'm an independent agent who finds the rest.
The enhanced premium tax credits expired January 1, 2026. Here's how that hits a healthy, self-employed buyer.
On average, marketplace premium payments jumped about 114% for 2026 — over $1,000 more per year for many households.
Earn above roughly $63K (individual) or about $128K (family of four) and you no longer qualify for any marketplace subsidy. You're paying full price.
Healthcare.gov only shows on-exchange plans. It won't show off-exchange, HSA-qualified, or underwritten coverage — often the best fit for healthy people.
It means it's time to shop the whole market — not just the slice the government website displays. As an independent agent, I compare on-exchange and off-exchange options side by side and build coverage around the fact that you're healthy.
Here's the part the marketplace can't offer you: on healthcare.gov, everyone pays the same rate regardless of health. With a medically underwritten private PPO, the opposite is true — being healthy can actually lower what you pay.
A medically underwritten private PPO prices on you. Qualify on your health and you're rewarded with lower premiums, lower deductibles, and broad PPO network access — the exact opposite of the marketplace. After the subsidy cliff, it's often the single biggest opportunity on the table for a healthy, self-employed buyer.
Underwritten plans require health questions, aren't guaranteed-issue, and aren't a fit for everyone. I'll tell you straight whether you qualify — and whether it beats your other options.
We talk through your situation, health, and income. No pressure, no cost.
On- and off-exchange: underwritten PPO, major medical, HSA-qualified, short-term, and more.
I handle the paperwork and stay your contact year-round. Same premium with or without me.
Get rewarded for being healthy: lower premiums, lower deductibles, broad PPO network access.
Flexible deductible and coinsurance options. Approval and pricing based on your health — strong fit for healthy buyers who want to customize.
Guaranteed-issue coverage that pays set benefit amounts for covered services. Supplemental — not a substitute for major medical.
Coverage offered through professional or trade associations — sometimes a smart fit if you qualify for membership. Availability varies by state.
Fixed cash benefits paid directly to you after a covered accident or diagnosis — to offset deductibles and lost income. Supplemental — not major medical.
Standalone dental and vision plans to round out your coverage — individual or family, with options across budgets.
Most people don't structure their coverage to fully capture it. A quick review could change what you pay each month and what you owe in April. (Confirm specifics with your tax professional.)
Let's Run My Numbers"[Real client quote — losing their subsidy and finding a better option.]"
"[Real client quote — rewarded with a lower rate after underwriting.]"
"[Real client quote — how easy / personal the process was.]"
A free 15-minute review could change what you pay all year. No pressure, no cost.
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