Individually purchased health insurance

In the United States, individually purchased health insurance is health insurance purchased directly by individuals, and not those provided through employers. Self-employed individuals receive a tax deduction for their health insurance and can buy health insurance with additional tax benefits. According to the US Census Bureau, about 9% of Americans are covered under individual health insurance. In the individual market, consumers pay the entire premium without an employer contribution, and most do not receive any tax benefit. The range of products available is similar to those provided through employers. However, average out-of-pocket spending is higher in the individual market, with higher deductibles, co-payments and other cost-sharing provisions. Major medical is the most commonly purchased form of individual health insurance. Economics Premiums can vary significantly by age. In states that allow medical underwriting, an individual's health information may be used in determining whether to cover the individual and the premium to be paid. However, under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, effective since 2014, insurers are prohibited from discriminating against or ch