Newly self-employed

What usually matters first

Self-employment removes the employer filter. Every element — network, deductible, cost sharing — is now yours to choose, which means the plan can be shaped around how you actually work rather than around an average employee.

• Decide how much cost variability your income can absorb month to month.
• Consider provider access if you travel or work across regions.
• Treat dental and vision as separate decisions rather than assumed extras.
• Revisit the choice annually rather than letting it renew unexamined.

How we'd approach it with you

We start by writing down what you need to keep — providers, prescriptions, a budget ceiling — then narrow the options against it. You see the same comparison we do, including the trade-offs we'd flag.

Timing details and eligibility rules vary by situation and location, so we confirm those against current plan documents rather than working from general guidance.