Punch in Gut for Solopreneurs: Possible 114% Increase in Health Insurance Premiums

 The dark humor for the growing number of those intending to become self-employed could be all over the place.

One possible snippet could be: Wait until you're 65 and eligible for Medicare. The monthly nut for that version of health insurance is $209.90 for 2026. Add on one of the free supplement plans. And there's an annual cap on out-of-the-pocket co-pays.

Another is: Marry someone whose employer provides a top-shelf health insurance plan. 

A major obstacle to becoming a solopreneur, as my coaching clients tell me, is what the cost of health insurance has become as the Affordable Care Act extended tax credits end this year. That cost-saver had been created in 2021. France24 (non-US media) reports:

"On average, the more than 20 million subsidised enrollees in the Affordable Care Act programme are seeing their premium costs rise by 114 percent in 2026, according to an analysis by the healthcare research nonprofit KFF." 

For a single 49 male the monthly nut can go from $350 to $500. Annually, that's $6,000. In itself it could be a deterrent for the dream to be liberated from the now-constant threats of layoffs and be one's own boss. 

Sure, the option is to go without health insurance. Many solopreneurs do go that route, especially if they are young and healthy. 

When my sector collapsed post-9/11 and business for my executive communications boutique dried up, I went uncovered for about three months. Then I picked up a contract loss-prevention full-time gig in retail. That came with not-great coverage but it did pay for a non-generic medication I needed. Later, when I regained my confidence and came up with an idea for a new business, a trade association had an option for about $200 monthly. 

Embedded in this gig example is what I hammer for unemployed clients: Grab work. Any kind. Work gets work. Sitting around in isolation applying for jobs and contract assignments can result in chronic unemployment. Confidence is lost. The vibe given off is that of those who have lost the ability to function in a work setting.

Soon after I became eligible for Medicare I took the risk of pulling up geographic roots and relocating my enterprise where there was less age bias. The bet was on the money. Within 10 months I paid off credit card debt and a car loan.

Tips for the self-employed: Research what organizations provide some health insurance coverage (yes, including dental) for part-time workers. 

Simultaneously, lobby your elected officials and those seeking public office. The midterms are coming up. And this is a high-profile issue. 

Success is a mental game. Failure comes from being done in by the “committee” in your head.

Together, we reprogram your thinking. Then we change your story. And, unleash success.

Intuitive Coaching. Special expertise with transitions, becoming a solopreneur and aging. Psychic/tarot readings, upon request. Complimentary consultation with Jane Genova (Text 203-468-8579, janegenova374@gmail.com). Yes, test out the chemistry. Zero risk.

Don’t give up before the miracle.


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