Small Business Landscaping Health Insurance in Colorado Springs, CO

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

For landscaping business owners in Colorado Springs, securing appropriate health insurance for themselves and their team is a critical decision. Whether you're a sole proprietor or managing a growing crew, understanding your options, from individual marketplace plans to small group coverage, is essential. Colorado Springs, located in El Paso County, offers a robust health insurance market through Connect for Health Colorado, the state-based marketplace, and a competitive off-exchange market. This guide outlines the key considerations for landscaping businesses in the area, helping you navigate plan types, eligibility, and local carrier options for the 2026 plan year.

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What Health Insurance Options Are Available for Landscaping Businesses in Colorado Springs?

Landscaping businesses in Colorado Springs have several pathways to health insurance, depending on their structure and employee count. The primary options include individual plans purchased through Connect for Health Colorado, small group health plans, and potentially other arrangements like HRAs for certain situations.

Individual ACA Plans for Sole Proprietors and Small Teams

If you operate as a sole proprietor, or if your business consists only of you and your spouse, an individual health insurance plan through Connect for Health Colorado is often the most suitable option. These plans are compliant with the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and offer comprehensive benefits. Eligibility for premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions is determined by household income, making coverage more affordable for many. In Colorado, individual marketplace plans offer a choice of Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO), and Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) structures.

Small Group Health Plans for Businesses with Employees

For landscaping businesses with at least one W-2 employee (not including the owner or their spouse), small group health insurance becomes a viable and often attractive option. Group plans can help attract and retain talent by offering competitive benefits. Carriers typically require a minimum percentage of eligible employees to participate in the plan, usually around 70%. Small group plans in Colorado Springs also offer various plan types, including HMO, EPO, and PPO options.

Understanding Small Group Eligibility and Requirements in Colorado

To qualify for small group health insurance in Colorado Springs, your landscaping business must meet specific criteria set by carriers and state regulations. These requirements ensure that group plans are offered to legitimate employer groups.
Requirement Description for Colorado Small Businesses
Minimum Employees Generally, at least one W-2 employee (not including the owner, partner, or spouse). Some carriers may have higher minimums.
Employee Participation Most carriers require 70% of eligible employees to enroll in the group plan. Waivers are often accepted for employees covered by a spouse's plan or Medicare/Medicaid.
Employer Contribution Employers are usually required to contribute a minimum percentage of the employee-only premium, typically 50% or more.
Business Domicile The business must be legally established and operate within the carrier's service area in Colorado.
Meeting these requirements allows your landscaping business to access the benefits of group coverage, including potential tax advantages and the ability to offer a valuable benefit to your team.

Health First Colorado (Medicaid) and CHP+ for Lower-Income Individuals

It's important to note that Colorado has expanded its Medicaid program, known as Health First Colorado. Adults with incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level may qualify for Health First Colorado at little to no cost. This is a crucial safety net for individuals and families, including self-employed individuals or employees of landscaping businesses who might have very low incomes. Additionally, Colorado's Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+) covers pregnant women with income up to 195% FPL for comprehensive prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care. CHP+ also covers children in households up to 260% FPL. Applications for Health First Colorado and CHP+ can be submitted through Colorado PEAK at colorado.gov/PEAK.

Health Insurance Carriers in Colorado Springs

In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 5, which covers El Paso and Teller counties. These carriers provide a range of options for both individual and small group plans, ensuring competitive choices for Colorado Springs residents and businesses. The confirmed local carriers for Colorado Springs include: When selecting a plan, consider factors like network size, specific providers (including local hospitals like Uch-memorial Health System and Centura Health-penrose St Francis Health Services), prescription drug coverage, and out-of-pocket costs.

Choosing the Right Plan for Your Colorado Springs Landscaping Business

The best health insurance strategy for your landscaping business in Colorado Springs depends on several factors, including your business structure, employee count, budget, and desired level of benefits.

For sole proprietors or businesses with no W-2 employees, individual plans through Connect for Health Colorado are often the most straightforward and cost-effective option, especially with available subsidies. These plans allow you to manage your own coverage and tailor it to your personal health needs.

For businesses with employees, offering a small group health plan can be a significant advantage. It demonstrates a commitment to employee well-being, helps with recruitment and retention, and offers tax benefits for the business. El Paso County, with a population of 742,999 and an uninsured rate of 7.2% per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates, has a dynamic healthcare market supported by systems like Uch-memorial Health System and Centura Health-penrose St Francis Health Services. Navigating these options can be complex, but a licensed health insurance producer can help compare plans, explain eligibility, and guide you through the enrollment process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the minimum requirements for small business group health insurance in Colorado Springs?
In Colorado, small businesses typically need at least one W-2 employee (not including the owner or spouse) to qualify for a group health plan. Most carriers require a minimum of 70% employee participation among eligible employees, with exceptions for those covered by another plan.
Can a landscaping business owner in Colorado Springs get an ACA plan instead of a group plan?
Yes, a landscaping business owner can purchase an individual ACA plan through Connect for Health Colorado. If they are the sole proprietor or only have a spouse as an employee, an individual plan may be more suitable. Premium tax credits are available based on household income and size.
What types of health plans are available for small businesses in Colorado Springs?
Small businesses in Colorado Springs can choose from various plan types, including Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO), and Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans. PPO plans are available on-exchange through Connect for Health Colorado, offering more flexibility in provider choice.
Are there tax benefits for offering health insurance to employees?
Yes, small businesses offering health insurance can typically deduct 100% of their premium contributions as a business expense. Additionally, in some cases, small businesses may qualify for the Small Business Health Care Tax Credit, which can cover up to 50% of employer-paid premiums.

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