Question 1

I'm 1099 - what's the right kind of plan for me?

Accepted Answer

As a 1099 creative without employer coverage, you have a few solid paths: an ACA marketplace plan (often with subsidies that bring premiums way down), an off-exchange plan, or a health-sharing community if you qualify. We help you compare them side-by-side based on your income, where you live, and the doctors you want to keep.

Question 2

Can I deduct health insurance premiums on Schedule C?

Accepted Answer

Most self-employed creatives can deduct 100% of their health insurance premiums as an above-the-line adjustment (Form 1040, not directly on Schedule C). The deduction can't exceed your net self-employment income, and you can't take it for any month you were eligible for an employer-sponsored plan. We'll walk through the numbers with you before you enroll.

Question 3

My income swings hard between client projects - does that affect subsidies?

Accepted Answer

Yes - ACA subsidies are based on your projected annual household income. Lumpy 1099 income is normal; we help you estimate a realistic range so you don't get a big surprise at tax time. If your actual income comes in higher or lower, the subsidy reconciles on your return.

Question 4

Vision and eye-strain care for screen-heavy work?

Accepted Answer

Most ACA medical plans cover medically necessary eye care but not routine vision exams or glasses for adults. We usually pair a medical plan with a separate vision plan ($10-$20/month) that covers an annual exam, lenses, frames, and contacts - well worth it if you stare at a Retina display for ten hours a day.

Question 5

Mental health and therapy coverage for solo workers?

Accepted Answer

Mental health is one of the ten essential health benefits in every ACA plan, so therapy and psychiatry are covered. Coverage details vary - some plans give you a $20 copay, others apply a deductible. We filter plans by in-network therapist availability in your zip so you're not stuck cold-calling.

Question 6

I work part-time at an agency and freelance - what counts?

Accepted Answer

If your part-time employer offers a plan and it's considered 'affordable' by ACA rules, you're not eligible for marketplace subsidies. If they don't offer one, or if it's not affordable, you can shop the marketplace. We'll do that affordability check for you.

Question 7

Can my partner and kids be on my freelancer plan?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. ACA marketplace plans let you cover yourself, a spouse, and dependents under 26. We size your subsidy off household income, not just yours, so the math usually works out better than people expect.

Question 8

Maternity and family planning - what's covered?

Accepted Answer

Maternity and newborn care are essential health benefits - every ACA plan covers prenatal visits, delivery, and postpartum care. Contraception is also covered at no cost on most plans. We'll flag plans with strong OB/GYN networks if you're planning a pregnancy.

Coverage for
the work you make solo.

The creative life needs
better coverage.

No employer plan? You're not alone.

Eye strain from 10-hour screen days.

Therapy matters when you're alone with the work.

Schedule C deductions can lower the cost.

Creative pros we cover.

Graphic Designers

Illustrators

Copywriters

Photographers

Videographers

UX / Product Designers

The shortest path to coverage.

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Your basics

FAQs from freelance creatives.

From the Pixel & Pen studio.

Freelance Designer Health Insurance: The 2025 Guide

Schedule C Health Deductions for Creative Pros

Mental Health Coverage for Solo Creatives

Coverage forthe work you make solo.

The creative life needsbetter coverage.