Can plumbing contractors in Englewood get health insurance if they're self-employed?

Yes, self-employed plumbing contractors in Englewood, Colorado, can access comprehensive health insurance through Connect for Health Colorado, the state's marketplace. They may qualify for significant subsidies based on their household income to reduce monthly premiums.

What are the income limits for Medicaid in Colorado for a contractor?

Colorado expanded Medicaid (Health First Colorado) in 2014. An adult plumbing contractor in Englewood may qualify for Health First Colorado if their household income is at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). For a single individual, this was approximately $20,782 in 2024. Eligibility thresholds vary by household size and are updated annually.

How does the income of a plumbing contractor affect health insurance costs?

The income of a plumbing contractor directly impacts eligibility for premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions through Connect for Health Colorado. Contractors with incomes between 100% and 400% FPL may qualify for subsidies that significantly lower their monthly premiums. Those between 150% and 250% FPL often qualify for enhanced Silver plans with lower deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums.

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

Health Insurance for Plumbing Contractors in Englewood, Colorado

Q: What types of health plans are available to contractors in Englewood?

In Englewood, plumbing contractors can choose from a variety of plan types on Connect for Health Colorado, including Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO), and Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans. PPO plans are available on-exchange in Colorado, offering more flexibility in choosing providers.

Self-employed plumbing contractors in Englewood can enroll in individual health plans through Connect for Health Colorado and may qualify for subsidies.
In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 1, which includes Englewood, providing choices like HMO, EPO, and PPO plans.
Colorado's Health First Colorado (Medicaid) covers adults with incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level.
Englewood's median income is $86,800, and its uninsured rate is 8.4% (per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates).

For plumbing contractors in Englewood, Colorado, securing reliable health insurance is essential, whether you're a sole proprietor or managing a small team. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace, known as Connect for Health Colorado, offers a range of individual and family plans designed to meet diverse needs and budgets. These plans often come with financial assistance in the form of premium tax credits, which can significantly reduce your monthly costs if your income falls within eligible ranges. Understanding your options, including plan types like HMOs, EPOs, and PPOs, and how to navigate enrollment periods, is crucial for finding the right coverage.

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Understanding Your Health Insurance Options in Englewood, CO

As a plumbing contractor in Englewood, you have several avenues to explore for health insurance. The primary route for individual and family coverage is through Connect for Health Colorado. This state-based marketplace allows you to compare plans, apply for financial assistance, and enroll during the annual Open Enrollment Period or if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period due to a life event like marriage, birth, or losing other coverage. Colorado is a Medicaid expansion state, meaning adults with household incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) may qualify for Health First Colorado, the state's Medicaid program. This provides comprehensive coverage at little to no cost. For those above Medicaid thresholds but within 400% FPL, premium tax credits are available to lower monthly premiums on marketplace plans. Additionally, individuals with incomes between 150% and 250% FPL may qualify for cost-sharing reductions, which further lower out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and copayments.

What Types of ACA Plans Are Available to Contractors in Englewood?

In Englewood, and across Colorado Rating Area 1, plumbing contractors can choose from a variety of health plan structures offered on Connect for Health Colorado. Unlike some states, Colorado's marketplace includes Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO), and Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans. This means you have flexibility in balancing cost, network access, and referral requirements. HMO (Health Maintenance Organization): Generally offer lower premiums and require you to choose a primary care provider (PCP) within the plan's network. Referrals from your PCP are usually needed to see specialists. EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization): Provide coverage only if you use doctors and hospitals within the plan's network, except in emergencies. You typically don't need a referral to see a specialist. PPO (Preferred Provider Organization): Offer the most flexibility, allowing you to see doctors and specialists both in and out of network, though out-of-network care will cost more. Referrals are generally not required. The choice between these plan types often depends on your preference for provider choice, need for referrals, and willingness to pay higher premiums for greater flexibility. Englewood, within Arapahoe County, is part of Colorado Rating Area 1, which covers Adams, Arapahoe, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas, and Jefferson counties. This multi-county rating area ensures a consistent selection of plans and carriers.

Health Insurance Carriers in Englewood

For plumbing contractors in Englewood, accessing a diverse selection of health insurance carriers is a key benefit of the Connect for Health Colorado marketplace. In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 1, providing a competitive environment with various plan options. These carriers include: Cigna Denver Health Medical Plan HMO Colorado Kaiser Permanente Select Health United Healthcare When comparing plans, consider not only the monthly premium but also the deductible, copayments, coinsurance, and the maximum out-of-pocket limit. It is also important to verify that your preferred doctors and any necessary specialists are within the plan's network.

Navigating Subsidies and Financial Assistance for Contractors

Many self-employed plumbing contractors in Englewood qualify for financial assistance to make health insurance more affordable. The two main forms of assistance available through Connect for Health Colorado are premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions.

Household Income (as % FPL)	Type of Assistance	Benefit for Contractors
Below 138% FPL	Health First Colorado (Medicaid)	Comprehensive health coverage at little to no cost.
100% - 400% FPL	Premium Tax Credits	Lowers your monthly health insurance premium. The exact amount depends on income and household size.
150% - 250% FPL	Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs)	Reduces deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums, primarily available with Silver plans.

To determine your eligibility, you'll need to provide an estimate of your annual household income for the upcoming year. For self-employed individuals, this means accurately projecting your net income after business expenses. Even if your income fluctuates, estimating accurately is crucial for receiving the correct amount of assistance. The city of Englewood has a median income of $86,800, and Arapahoe County's median income is $101,087 (per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates), indicating that many residents, including contractors, will likely fall within the subsidy-eligible income ranges.

Step-by-Step: Choosing Your Health Plan in Englewood

Choosing the right health insurance plan requires careful consideration. For plumbing contractors in Englewood, here’s a guide to help simplify the process: 1. Estimate Your Income: Project your household income for the upcoming year. This is the most critical factor for determining subsidy eligibility. Be sure to account for all sources of income and allowable business deductions. 2. Visit Connect for Health Colorado: Go to the official state marketplace website. You can create an account and begin the application process. 3. Compare Plans: Review the available plans from carriers like Cigna, Kaiser Permanente, and United Healthcare. Pay attention to plan types (HMO, EPO, PPO), premiums, deductibles, out-of-pocket maximums, and prescription drug coverage. 4. Check Provider Networks: Ensure your preferred doctors, specialists, and hospitals (such as Hca-healthone DBA Swedish Medical Center in Englewood or The Medical Center of Aurora & South Hospital) are included in the plan's network. 5. Consider Metal Tiers: Bronze plans have the lowest premiums but highest deductibles. Best for those who expect minimal medical care. Silver plans offer moderate premiums and deductibles. They are the only plans eligible for cost-sharing reductions. Gold plans have higher premiums but lower deductibles and out-of-pocket costs, ideal for those who expect to use medical services frequently. Platinum plans have the highest premiums but the lowest out-of-pocket costs. 6. Enroll: Once you've selected a plan, complete the enrollment process through Connect for Health Colorado. Englewood, Colorado, with a population of 34,129, is served by Arapahoe County's three acute care hospitals, including Hca-healthone DBA Swedish Medical Center. The county as a whole serves a population of 659,844, and has an uninsured rate of 9.3% (per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates). These local facts highlight the importance of understanding the healthcare landscape when making your insurance decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can plumbing contractors deduct health insurance premiums?

Yes, self-employed plumbing contractors in Englewood may be able to deduct health insurance premiums from their gross income, provided they are not eligible to participate in an employer-sponsored health plan. This deduction applies to premiums paid for medical, dental, and qualified long-term care insurance for themselves, their spouse, and dependents. Consult a tax professional for personalized advice.

What if I miss the Open Enrollment Period for Connect for Health Colorado?

If you miss the annual Open Enrollment Period, you may still be able to enroll in a health plan through a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). SEPs are triggered by qualifying life events such as losing existing health coverage, getting married, having a baby, moving to a new area, or certain changes in income. You typically have 60 days from the date of the qualifying event to enroll.

Are dental and vision plans included with ACA health insurance for contractors?

While all ACA-compliant plans cover pediatric dental and vision benefits for children, adult dental and vision coverage is not typically included in standard health insurance plans. You can often purchase separate standalone dental and vision plans through Connect for Health Colorado or directly from insurance carriers like Cigna or Kaiser Permanente.

How can I get help choosing the best plan for my plumbing business?

Navigating the health insurance marketplace can be complex, especially with the nuances of self-employment and small business needs. You can get free, unbiased assistance from a licensed health insurance producer. These professionals are certified by Connect for Health Colorado and can help you understand your options, compare plans, and apply for subsidies without any extra cost to you.