Can I get health insurance if I'm a self-employed contractor or attorney in Reno?

Yes, self-employed contractors and attorneys in Reno can access health insurance through Nevada Health Link, the state's official marketplace. Depending on your income, you may qualify for significant subsidies (Premium Tax Credits) to lower your monthly premiums, or even for Nevada Medicaid if your income is below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level.

What are the income limits for health insurance subsidies in Reno?

There are no upper income limits for Premium Tax Credits (subsidies) through Nevada Health Link. Eligibility is based on ensuring your premium for a benchmark Silver plan does not exceed 8.5% of your household income. For individuals earning between 100% and 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), Nevada Medicaid is available. For a single individual in 2026, 138% FPL is approximately $21,000.

What types of health plans are available to self-employed individuals in Reno?

In Reno, self-employed individuals can choose from Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO), and some Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans on Nevada Health Link. HMOs and EPOs are most common, but limited PPO options may be available in Washoe County. Plans are offered across four metal tiers: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum, differing in premium cost and out-of-pocket expenses.

Updated July 2026 · NevadaPlanFinder.com — Licensed Health Insurance Producer (NPN #21249133)

Health Insurance for Contractors and Attorneys in Reno, Nevada

Self-employed contractors and attorneys in Reno can find subsidy-eligible health plans through Nevada Health Link.
For 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Reno's Rating Area 2, including Ambetter and Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield.
Individuals with income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level may qualify for comprehensive Nevada Medicaid coverage.
Reno's population of 273,212 has an uninsured rate of 10.6% (U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates).

Navigating health insurance as a self-employed contractor or attorney in Reno, Nevada, presents unique challenges, but also significant opportunities for affordable coverage. Unlike traditional employees, you're responsible for securing your own benefits, but the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace, Nevada Health Link, offers a robust solution. Through Nevada Health Link, you can access plans with financial assistance (subsidies) that can significantly reduce your monthly premiums, making comprehensive coverage accessible. Even if you earn a substantial income as an attorney or contractor, you may still qualify for premium tax credits, as there is no longer an income cap for eligibility.

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Understanding Your Health Insurance Options in Reno

For self-employed individuals in Reno, the primary avenue for health insurance is Nevada Health Link. This state-based marketplace allows you to compare various plans, understand their benefits, and determine your eligibility for financial assistance. Plans are categorized into metal tiers: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum, each offering different levels of cost-sharing.

ACA Metal Tiers Explained

Bronze Plans: These plans have the lowest monthly premiums but the highest deductibles and out-of-pocket costs. They are suitable for individuals who anticipate minimal medical care and want protection against catastrophic events.
Silver Plans: Offering moderate premiums and out-of-pocket costs, Silver plans are a popular choice. Crucially, if you qualify for cost-sharing reductions (CSRs) based on your income, these benefits are only available with Silver plans, making them significantly more valuable for eligible individuals.
Gold Plans: With higher monthly premiums than Bronze or Silver, Gold plans come with lower deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums. They are ideal for those who expect to use medical services frequently and prefer predictable costs.
Platinum Plans: These plans have the highest monthly premiums but the lowest deductibles and out-of-pocket costs, covering a significant portion of your medical expenses from the start.

In Reno, which is part of Nevada Rating Area 2, you can typically find Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) and Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) plans. While PPO availability can be limited in Nevada, some PPO options may exist in Washoe County. It's important to check the specific plan details to understand network restrictions and out-of-network coverage.

Eligibility for Financial Assistance and Nevada Medicaid

The cost of health insurance can be a significant concern for self-employed individuals. Fortunately, the ACA provides subsidies, known as Premium Tax Credits, to help make coverage more affordable. These credits are based on your household income and can be used to lower your monthly premiums. There is no longer an income cap for Premium Tax Credits. Eligibility is determined by ensuring that the cost of your benchmark Silver plan does not exceed 8.5% of your household income. This means that many self-employed contractors and attorneys in Reno, even those with higher incomes, may still qualify for assistance. For individuals and families with lower incomes, Nevada also expanded its Medicaid program in 2014. If your household income falls below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you may qualify for comprehensive coverage through Nevada Medicaid. For a single individual, 138% FPL is approximately $21,000 for 2026, though this figure adjusts annually. This program provides essential health benefits with no premiums and minimal out-of-pocket costs. Applications for Nevada Medicaid can be made through Nevada DWSS or online at access.nv.gov.

Special Considerations for Pregnant Contractors and Attorneys

If you are a pregnant contractor or attorney in Reno, it's important to know that pregnancy alone does not qualify you for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to enroll in an ACA plan. However, Nevada Medicaid covers pregnant women with income up to 185% FPL, including prenatal care, labor and delivery, and 12 months of postpartum care. Once the baby is born, the birth of a child is a qualifying life event that triggers an SEP, allowing you to enroll in or change your health plan. Nevada Check Up, the state's CHIP program, also provides coverage for uninsured children in households up to 200% FPL.

Health Insurance Carriers in Reno

In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 2, which includes Reno and the entirety of Washoe County. These carriers provide a range of plan options for self-employed contractors and attorneys:

Ambetter
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield
CareSource
Health Plan of Nevada
Imperial Insurance Companies
Select Health

When selecting a plan, consider factors such as the carrier's network of doctors and hospitals, specific plan types (HMO, EPO, PPO), and overall costs. Reno's Washoe County is served by major healthcare providers such as Renown Regional Medical Center and Saint Mary's Regional Medical Center, both located in Reno, as well as Northern Nevada Medical Center in nearby Sparks. These facilities are integral to the local healthcare landscape and are important considerations when reviewing a plan's network. Reno, Nevada, a city with a population of 273,212 and a median income of $80,760 per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates, is part of Nevada Rating Area 2. This single-county rating area for Washoe County (population 497,200) has an uninsured rate of 10.6% in the city and 9.9% county-wide, highlighting the ongoing need for accessible health coverage options for its residents, including self-employed professionals.

Making the Right Choice for Your Reno Practice

Choosing the best health insurance plan as a self-employed contractor or attorney in Reno involves weighing several factors, including your income, anticipated medical needs, preferred doctors, and budget.

If your income is below 138% FPL: Strongly consider applying for Nevada Medicaid. It offers comprehensive coverage with minimal or no costs.
If your income is between 138% and 400% FPL (or higher, depending on benchmark plan cost): You will likely qualify for significant Premium Tax Credits. Compare Silver plans, especially if your income is closer to the lower end of this range, as you may also be eligible for Cost-Sharing Reductions.
If your income is higher: You can still benefit from Premium Tax Credits if your benchmark Silver plan costs more than 8.5% of your income. Evaluate Bronze, Silver, and Gold plans based on your expected healthcare usage and preferred balance of premiums vs. out-of-pocket costs.

A licensed health insurance producer specializing in the Nevada marketplace can provide personalized guidance, help you understand your subsidy eligibility, and navigate the plan options available from carriers like Ambetter and Health Plan of Nevada. Their assistance comes at no cost to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I deduct health insurance premiums as a self-employed individual in Reno?

Yes, if you are self-employed and not eligible to participate in an employer-sponsored health plan, you can generally deduct the premiums you pay for health insurance for yourself, your spouse, and your dependents. This is known as the self-employed health insurance deduction and is an above-the-line deduction, meaning it reduces your adjusted gross income (AGI). Consult with a tax professional for advice specific to your situation.

What is the difference between an HMO and a PPO plan in Nevada?

In an HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) plan, you typically choose a primary care provider (PCP) within the network who then refers you to specialists. Out-of-network care is generally not covered, except in emergencies. PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plans offer more flexibility; you don't usually need a referral to see a specialist, and you can see out-of-network providers for a higher cost. In Reno, while HMOs and EPOs are prevalent, limited PPO options may be available through Nevada Health Link in Washoe County.

What if I miss the Open Enrollment Period for Nevada Health Link?

If you miss the annual Open Enrollment Period, you can still enroll in a health plan through Nevada Health Link if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). SEPs are triggered by specific life events such as marriage, birth of a child, loss of other coverage, or moving to a new rating area like Reno. If you do not qualify for an SEP, you would need to wait until the next Open Enrollment Period to purchase an ACA-compliant plan.