Small Business Construction Health Insurance in Aurora, Colorado
- Aurora's small construction businesses can choose between individual plans through Connect for Health Colorado or small group plans if they have 2+ employees.
- In 2026, 6 confirmed carriers offer marketplace plans in Aurora's Rating Area 1, including Cigna and Kaiser Permanente.
- Colorado's Medicaid program, Health First Colorado, covers adults with incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level.
- PPO plans are available on-exchange in Colorado, offering more flexibility than HMO/EPO-only markets.
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What Are Your Health Insurance Options in Aurora?
Small business owners and their employees in Aurora have several pathways to health insurance, depending on the size of the business and individual circumstances:- Individual and Family Plans (ACA Marketplace): For self-employed individuals, contractors, or small business owners who don't offer group coverage, Connect for Health Colorado is the primary avenue. These plans are compliant with the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and offer comprehensive benefits. Eligibility for premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions can significantly lower monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs based on household income. In Colorado, marketplace shoppers can choose from HMO, EPO, and PPO plan structures.
- Small Group Health Insurance: If your construction business has at least two employees (the owner and one or more W-2 employees), you may be eligible for a small group health insurance plan. These plans are typically purchased directly from insurance carriers or through brokers and can offer more robust benefits and tax advantages for the business.
- Medicaid (Health First Colorado): Colorado expanded Medicaid in 2014, known as Health First Colorado. Adults with incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) may qualify for comprehensive health coverage at little to no cost. This is an important option for those with lower incomes, including some self-employed individuals or part-time employees in the construction sector.
- Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+): For families, Colorado's CHP+ program provides low-cost health and dental coverage for children up to age 19 and pregnant women. Children in households with incomes up to 260% FPL and pregnant women up to 195% FPL may qualify.
Understanding ACA Plan Tiers and Subsidies
Individual and family plans on Connect for Health Colorado are categorized into "metal tiers" based on how costs are split between the plan and the enrollee:- Bronze Plans: These plans have the lowest monthly premiums but the highest deductibles and out-of-pocket costs. They cover approximately 60% of healthcare expenses, with you paying the remaining 40%. Bronze plans are suitable for individuals who expect minimal healthcare use or want protection against catastrophic medical events.
- Silver Plans: Silver plans strike a balance between premiums and out-of-pocket costs, covering about 70% of expenses. They are particularly valuable for individuals who qualify for cost-sharing reductions (CSRs), which are extra discounts that lower your deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums. CSRs are only available with Silver plans and are based on income.
- Gold Plans: With higher monthly premiums than Bronze or Silver, Gold plans cover approximately 80% of healthcare costs, meaning lower out-of-pocket expenses when you receive care. These plans are ideal if you anticipate frequent medical needs or prefer more predictable costs.
- Platinum Plans: The highest tier, Platinum plans, have the highest premiums but cover about 90% of costs, offering the lowest out-of-pocket expenses. They are best for those who require extensive medical care and want maximum coverage.
Income Guidelines for Financial Assistance in Aurora
Eligibility for premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions on Connect for Health Colorado is based on your household income relative to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).| Household Income (as % of FPL) | Available Assistance |
|---|---|
| Up to 138% FPL | Eligible for Health First Colorado (Medicaid) |
| 138% - 250% FPL | Eligible for significant premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions (CSRs) on Silver plans. |
| 250% - 400% FPL | Eligible for substantial premium tax credits to lower monthly premiums. |
| Above 400% FPL | May still qualify for some premium tax credits, depending on specific income relative to benchmark plan costs. |
Health Insurance Carriers in Aurora
In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 1, which includes Aurora. These carriers provide a range of plan types, including HMO, EPO, and PPO options, catering to diverse needs within the construction industry and beyond. The confirmed carriers for Aurora and Rating Area 1 are:- Cigna
- Denver Health Medical Plan
- HMO Colorado
- Kaiser Permanente
- Select Health
- United Healthcare
Making the Right Choice for Your Construction Business
Choosing the right health insurance for your small construction business or as an individual in Aurora involves evaluating your specific needs, budget, and eligibility for financial assistance.- If you are self-employed or a sole proprietor: Your best option is likely an individual plan through Connect for Health Colorado. This allows you to leverage premium tax credits if your income qualifies, making comprehensive coverage more affordable.
- If you have 1-25 employees: Explore small group health insurance plans. These plans can be a valuable benefit for attracting and retaining talent in the competitive construction industry. A licensed insurance producer can help you compare quotes and options.
- If your income is limited: Investigate eligibility for Health First Colorado (Medicaid) or Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+) if you have children or are pregnant. These programs offer essential coverage at low or no cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my small construction business get group health insurance in Aurora?
Yes, if your small business in Aurora has at least two employees (owner plus one W-2 employee) and meets other eligibility requirements, you can typically purchase a small group health insurance plan. These plans are often more comprehensive and may offer tax advantages compared to individual coverage.
What are the health insurance options for self-employed construction workers in Aurora?
Self-employed construction workers in Aurora can access individual health insurance plans through Connect for Health Colorado, the state's official marketplace. Depending on income, they may qualify for premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions to lower their out-of-pocket expenses. Additionally, they can explore off-marketplace plans or short-term insurance options, though these do not offer the same consumer protections or subsidies as ACA plans.
Are PPO plans available on Connect for Health Colorado in Aurora?
Yes, PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plans are available on-exchange through Connect for Health Colorado in Aurora. In 2026, marketplace shoppers in Rating Area 1 can choose from HMO, EPO, and PPO plan structures offered by various carriers, including Denver Health Medical Plan and HMO Colorado.
What is the difference between an HMO and a PPO plan in Aurora?
An HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) plan typically requires you to choose a primary care provider (PCP) within its network and get referrals for specialists. 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, though at a higher cost. Both HMO and PPO plans are available on Connect for Health Colorado in Aurora.
How does Health First Colorado (Medicaid) work for Aurora residents?
Health First Colorado is Colorado's Medicaid program, which expanded in 2014. Adults with household incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) may qualify for comprehensive health coverage at little to no cost. Enrollment is year-round, and applications can be submitted through Colorado PEAK (colorado.gov/PEAK).