Cigna offers a range of self-employed health insurance plans that cater to the unique needs of freelancers and small business owners.
These plans typically provide coverage for essential health benefits, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription medications.
Cigna's self-employed health insurance plans often have varying levels of coverage, with different deductible options and out-of-pocket maximums.
This flexibility allows self-employed individuals to choose a plan that fits their budget and health needs.
Cigna Self-Employed Health Insurance Options
Cigna offers several self-employed health insurance options, including the Cigna Smart Plan With HSA and the Cigna Core Plan. The Cigna Smart Plan With HSA has lower per-paycheck contributions and offers 100% coverage for in-network preventive care services.
You can choose between the Cigna Open Access Plus (OAP) network providers for higher benefit levels and negotiated rates. Out-of-network services are covered at 50% after meeting the deductible.
The Cigna Core Plan has moderate per-paycheck contributions and offers 100% coverage for in-network preventive care services. You'll pay a copay for in-network doctor visits, $20 for primary care visits and $30 for specialist visits.
Here's a comparison of the two plans:
The Cigna Core Plan also offers lower out-of-pocket maximums, $3,600 individual and $7,200 for entire families, compared to the Cigna Smart Plan With HSA, which has $8,000 individual and $16,000 for entire families.
If you're looking for a more affordable option, consider a catastrophic only policy, which can reduce premiums by hundreds of dollars per month. However, coverage is limited to major medical items, and prescription coverage may be limited.
Types of Plans
Cigna offers several types of health insurance plans for self-employed individuals, each with its own unique features and benefits. You can choose from a variety of plans, including the Cigna Core Plan, which has moderate per-paycheck contributions and offers a range of coverage options.
The Cigna Core Plan provides 100% coverage for in-network preventive care services, with no copay or deductible. It also offers a copay for in-network doctor visits, with a $20 primary care visit and a $30 specialist visit. Out-of-network services are covered at 60% after meeting the deductible.
The plan also offers a deductible of $600 for individuals and $1,200 for families, with out-of-network services covered at 60% after meeting the deductible. This plan is a good option for those who want flexibility in choosing their healthcare providers.
Here are the key features of the Cigna Core Plan:
Alternatively, you can also consider a PPO plan, which offers more flexibility in choosing healthcare providers. With a PPO plan, you don't need a referral from your primary care physician to see a specialist and you can also see doctors outside your network. However, you will pay a slightly higher cost for out-of-network services.
Cigna Smart Plan
The Cigna Smart Plan is a great option for those who want flexibility in their healthcare coverage. It's the lowest cost plan when it comes to per-paycheck contributions.
You can see a doctor or visit a hospital without worrying about finding a specific network provider, but you will save more money if you use Cigna's Open Access Plus (OAP) network providers.
For in-network preventive care services, the plan pays 100%, which means you won't have to pay a copay or meet a deductible.
For in-network doctor visits or services, the plan pays 80% after you meet the $1,650 individual or $3,300 family deductible.
Out-of-network services have a higher deductible, $3,300 individual or $6,600 family, and the plan only pays 50% of the costs.
This plan is also a great option if you're interested in a Health Savings Account (HSA), which lets you set aside pretax dollars to pay for eligible medical expenses.
You'll also get a bonus from Workday, either $1,000 for employee-only coverage or $2,000 if you're covering dependents, which can be a nice addition to your savings.
Select Medical Services
Select Medical Services can be a bit overwhelming, but let's break it down. With many plans, you'll have to pay a copay or deductible for doctor visits, which can range from $20 to $30.
You'll also want to know how much you'll pay for emergency room visits, which can be a significant expense. In-network, the copay is $150, but it's waived if you're admitted. Out-of-network, it's also $150, waived if you're admitted.
Preventive care services are a different story, though. With some plans, you won't pay anything out of pocket for these services, which can include things like check-ups and screenings.
Here's a breakdown of some common medical services and their costs:
Keep in mind that some services may have additional costs or requirements, so be sure to review your plan details carefully.
HMO (Maintenance Organization)
An HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) plan can be a good option for those who want lower premiums and deductibles, but it comes with some trade-offs.
You'll have to stick to a predefined network of providers, which means less freedom to choose your doctor or hospital.
Typically, you'll have a primary care provider who will refer you to other specialists within the network.
You can usually browse the network online to find an in-network doctor you like.
Most insurers offer free services or have a small copay per visit for in-network healthcare providers.
However, if you see a doctor or go to a hospital outside your HMO network, you won't be covered and will have to pay out of pocket.
Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)
A Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plan offers more flexibility than a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) when choosing a provider. You don't need a referral from your primary care physician to see a specialist and you can also see doctors outside your network, though you will pay a slightly higher cost.
PPO plans generally have higher premiums than HMOs and require a little more paperwork. For example, you may have to submit a claim yourself when you see an out-of-network doctor.
Here's a breakdown of the benefits of a PPO plan:
Other services: 20% after deductibleOffice visits: 20% after in-network deductible*
Other services: 40% after out-of-network deductible*Physical Therapy$20 PCP / $30 specialist / $30 cardiac40% PCP / 40% specialist
With a PPO plan, you'll have the freedom to choose from a wide range of providers, but be prepared for higher premiums and more paperwork.
Understanding Cigna Plans
Cigna plans can be a great option for self-employed individuals, but it's essential to understand the details. You can choose from various plans, including the Cigna Core Plan, which has moderate per-paycheck contributions.
The Cigna Core Plan offers a range of benefits, including 100% coverage for in-network preventive care services and a copay for in-network doctor visits. You'll pay $20 for primary care visits and $30 for specialist visits.
Here's a breakdown of the plan's coverage:
With the Cigna Core Plan, you'll have access to a range of services, including office visits, emergency room visits, and outpatient surgery, although out-of-network services may incur higher costs.
Cigna Plan
The Cigna Plan offers a range of benefits, including moderate per-paycheck contributions. You can visit any provider you like, but using Cigna Open Access Plus (OAP) network providers will give you negotiated rates and higher benefit levels.
In-network preventive care services are covered at 100%, with no copay or deductible. For in-network doctor visits, you'll pay a copay of $20 for primary care visits and $30 for specialist visits.
The deductible for in-network services is $600 for individuals and $1,200 for families, while out-of-network services have a deductible of $1,200 for individuals and $2,400 for families.
Here's a breakdown of the deductibles for in-network and out-of-network services:
For in-network services, you'll pay 20% after meeting the deductible, while out-of-network services have a 40% copay after meeting the deductible.
CVS Prescription Drug Coverage
Cigna offers prescription drug coverage through CVS Caremark, which has two plans: Cigna Smart Plan and Cigna Core Plan.
Under the Cigna Smart Plan, you pay 20% of the cost of your prescription after meeting your deductible, while the Cigna Core Plan has a flat copay that applies before your deductible.
CVS Caremark divides prescription drugs into three tiers: generic, preferred brand, and non-preferred brand, with generic drugs costing less out of pocket.
For a 30-day supply of generic drugs, you pay 20% of the cost after deductible with Cigna Smart Plan, or a $10 copay with Cigna Core Plan. For a 90-day supply, you pay 20% of the cost after deductible with Cigna Smart Plan, or a $25 copay with Cigna Core Plan.
Preferred brand drugs cost 20% of the cost after deductible with Cigna Smart Plan, or a $30 copay with Cigna Core Plan for a 30-day supply. For a 90-day supply, you pay 20% of the cost after deductible with Cigna Smart Plan, or a $75 copay with Cigna Core Plan.
Non-preferred brand drugs cost 20% of the cost after deductible with Cigna Smart Plan, or a $60 copay with Cigna Core Plan for a 30-day supply. For a 90-day supply, you pay 20% of the cost after deductible with Cigna Smart Plan, or a $150 copay with Cigna Core Plan.
Specialty drugs, which treat complex or chronic conditions, cost 20% of the cost after deductible with Cigna Smart Plan, or an $80 copay with Cigna Core Plan for a 30-day supply. For a 90-day supply, you pay 20% of the cost after deductible with Cigna Smart Plan, or a $160 copay with Cigna Core Plan.
Here's a summary of the costs for each type of drug under Cigna Core Plan:
Point of Service
A POS plan is a great option if you want the best of both worlds - the flexibility of a PPO and the cost savings of an HMO.
With a POS, you'll have a primary care physician who coordinates your services, acting as a gatekeeper to ensure you're getting the best care.
You'll still be able to see out-of-network specialists, but you'll need to pay upfront for these services, then submit a claim to your insurer for reimbursement.
This can be a bit more complicated, but it's worth it for the added flexibility and peace of mind that comes with knowing you have options when it comes to your healthcare.
Cost and Coverage
Self-employed individuals can expect to pay several hundred to several thousand dollars per month for health insurance.
The cost of Cigna self-employed health insurance varies depending on age, location, and specific coverage options chosen. On average, this can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars per month.
Shopping around and comparing different health insurance plans is recommended to find the best coverage at the most affordable price.
Factors and Considerations
As a self-employed individual, you'll want to consider several factors when choosing a health insurance plan. Age is a significant factor, as you can expect to pay more for your health insurance as you get older.
Location also plays a role, as state rules and localized cost of services can affect your premiums. For example, if you live in an area with high medical costs, your premiums may be higher.
Your tobacco usage can also impact your premiums, with some states allowing insurers to charge up to 50% more for tobacco users.
Here are some key factors to consider:
Ultimately, it's essential to weigh your priorities and consider the potential costs of different plans.
Factors Impacting Self-Employment
As a self-employed individual, you're likely aware that health insurance costs can vary significantly depending on several factors. Age is one of the most significant factors, with premiums increasing as you get older.
You can expect to pay more for health insurance in certain locations due to state rules and localized cost of services. For instance, some states may have higher costs for medical services.
Tobacco use can also impact your premiums, with health insurers charging up to 50% more for tobacco users in some cases.
If you're looking for a plan that covers your entire family, be prepared for higher premiums compared to individual plans.
The deductible amount you choose can also affect your premiums, with higher deductibles often resulting in lower premiums. However, if you anticipate needing medical care frequently, it may be worth paying more for a lower deductible.
Here are the key factors impacting self-employment health insurance:
- Age
- Location
- Tobacco usage
- Family vs. individual plans
- Deductible amount
Self-Employed Tax Deductions
Self-employed tax deductions can be a game-changer for freelancers and small business owners. Self-employed health insurance premiums became 100% tax deductible in 2003.
To qualify for this deduction, self-employed individuals need to meet certain criteria. Be sure to check the current guidelines each year before taking the deduction on your 1040.
Consulting with a tax professional or referring to the IRS guidelines is highly recommended for more specific information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you write off health insurance if you are self-employed?
Yes, self-employed individuals may be eligible to deduct health insurance premiums for themselves, their spouses, and dependents. Check if you qualify and learn more about the deductions available to you.
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