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

Health Insurance for Accounting and Tax Contractors in Aurora, Colorado

As an accounting or tax contractor in Aurora, you can access subsidized health insurance plans through Connect for Health Colorado, the state's official marketplace.
Individuals with incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) may qualify for Health First Colorado (Medicaid), offering comprehensive, low-cost coverage.
In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Aurora's Rating Area 1, including HMO, EPO, and PPO options.
Self-employed individuals can often deduct health insurance premiums from their federal income tax, reducing their taxable income.

As an accounting or tax contractor in Aurora, Colorado, securing reliable and affordable health insurance is a critical part of managing your business and personal well-being. Unlike traditional employees, you're responsible for finding your own coverage, which can seem complex. Fortunately, Colorado offers robust options through its state-based marketplace, Connect for Health Colorado, where you can access financial assistance to lower your monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs. Understanding these options, from subsidized plans to Medicaid, is key to making an informed decision.

Get Your Free Health Insurance Quote

A licensed agent can compare coverage options for you at no cost.

✓

You're all set!

A licensed agent will reach out shortly.

What Health Insurance Options Are Available for Contractors in Aurora?

Accounting and tax contractors in Aurora primarily have two main avenues for health insurance: the state marketplace or direct enrollment with a carrier. The most common and often most affordable path is through Connect for Health Colorado, which provides access to plans that comply with the Affordable Care Act (ACA). These plans are categorized into metal tiers: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum, each offering different levels of cost-sharing.

Aurora, with a population of 394,432, is part of Colorado Rating Area 1, which covers Adams, Arapahoe, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas, Jefferson counties. In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 1, ensuring a competitive selection for contractors. The city's uninsured rate is 13.7% per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates, highlighting the importance of accessible health coverage.

Marketplace Plans (Connect for Health Colorado)

Through Connect for Health Colorado, you can enroll in a plan and potentially receive subsidies based on your income. These subsidies, known as Advance Premium Tax Credits (APTCs) and Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs), can significantly reduce your costs.

Advance Premium Tax Credits (APTCs): These credits lower your monthly premium payments. Eligibility is based on your household income relative to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs): Available only with Silver plans, CSRs reduce your deductibles, co-pays, and out-of-pocket maximums. You must have an income between 100% and 250% of the FPL to qualify.

Colorado's marketplace offers a variety of plan types, including Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), Exclusive Provider Organizations (EPOs), and Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs). Unlike some states, PPO plans ARE available on-exchange in Colorado, offered by carriers such as Denver Health Medical Plan and HMO Colorado. This provides contractors with more flexibility in choosing their doctors and hospitals.

Health First Colorado (Medicaid) for Low-Income Contractors

Colorado expanded its Medicaid program, known as Health First Colorado, in 2014. This means that if your household income is at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you may qualify for comprehensive health coverage at little to no cost. For a single individual, this threshold is approximately $20,783 annually (based on 2026 FPL guidelines). Health First Colorado provides extensive benefits, including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, mental health services, and more.

Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+)

For contractors with children, Colorado's Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+) provides low-cost health and dental insurance for children up to age 18 in families earning too much for Health First Colorado but within 260% FPL. Pregnant women with incomes up to 195% FPL can also qualify for comprehensive prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care through CHP+. Applications for both Health First Colorado and CHP+ can be submitted through Colorado PEAK (colorado.gov/PEAK).

Understanding Plan Tiers and Costs for Aurora Contractors

Choosing the right metal tier depends on your expected healthcare usage and financial situation.

Metal Tier	Monthly Premium	Out-of-Pocket Costs	Best For
Bronze	Lowest	Highest deductible/copays	Healthy individuals who want catastrophic coverage and low monthly payments.
Silver	Moderate	Moderate, with potential for Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs).	Those who qualify for CSRs, or expect moderate healthcare use.
Gold	Higher	Lower deductible/copays	Individuals with ongoing health conditions or who prefer predictable costs.
Platinum	Highest	Lowest deductible/copays	Those with very high healthcare needs who want minimal out-of-pocket costs.

As an accounting or tax contractor, your income may fluctuate. It's important to accurately estimate your annual income when applying for marketplace plans, as this determines your subsidy eligibility. If your income changes during the year, update Connect for Health Colorado to adjust your subsidies and avoid issues at tax time.

Health Insurance Carriers in Aurora

In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Aurora's Rating Area 1, which covers Adams, Arapahoe, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas, Jefferson counties. These carriers provide a range of plan options, including HMO, EPO, and PPO structures, allowing you to choose a plan that best fits your needs and preferences for network access. The confirmed carriers for Aurora and Rating Area 1 are:

Cigna
Denver Health Medical Plan
HMO Colorado
Kaiser Permanente
Select Health
United Healthcare

These carriers offer access to local facilities, including the three acute care hospitals in Arapahoe County: Hca-healthone DBA Swedish Medical Center in Englewood, The Medical Center of Aurora & South Hospital in Aurora, and Adventhealth Littleton in Littleton. When selecting a plan, verify that your preferred doctors and hospitals are within the plan's network.

Next Steps for Aurora Accounting and Tax Contractors

Your ideal health insurance path in Aurora depends on your income and healthcare needs:

If your income is at or below 138% FPL: Apply for Health First Colorado (Medicaid) through Colorado PEAK (colorado.gov/PEAK). This offers the most comprehensive coverage at the lowest cost.
If your income is between 100% and 400% FPL (or higher, depending on household size): Explore plans on Connect for Health Colorado. You will likely qualify for significant Advance Premium Tax Credits to lower your monthly premiums. If your income is between 100% and 250% FPL, prioritize Silver plans to take advantage of Cost-Sharing Reductions.
If your income is above 400% FPL: You can still enroll in plans through Connect for Health Colorado, though you may not qualify for premium tax credits. You can also explore plans directly with carriers off-exchange, but these plans are not eligible for subsidies.

Navigating these options can be complex, especially with varying income and plan structures. A licensed health insurance producer can provide free, personalized assistance to help you compare plans, understand subsidies, and enroll in the best coverage for your unique situation as an accounting or tax contractor in Aurora.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I deduct health insurance premiums as an accounting or tax contractor?

Yes, if you are self-employed and not eligible to participate in an employer-sponsored health plan, you can typically deduct health insurance premiums as an above-the-line deduction on your federal income tax return. This includes premiums for medical, dental, and long-term care insurance. Consult a tax professional for personalized advice.

What income range qualifies for maximum subsidies on Connect for Health Colorado?

The most significant subsidies are generally available to individuals and families with incomes between 100% and 250% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). For 2026, this range is approximately $15,060 to $37,650 for an individual, and higher for larger households. Subsidies can significantly reduce monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs.

Are PPO plans available for contractors in Aurora through the marketplace?

Yes, in Colorado, PPO plans are available on-exchange through Connect for Health Colorado. This means accounting and tax contractors in Aurora can choose from HMO, EPO, and PPO plan structures when shopping for subsidized coverage. Carriers like Denver Health Medical Plan and HMO Colorado offer PPO options in Rating Area 1.