As an Uber or Lyft driver, you may be wondering about your health insurance options. Ridesharing can be a risky job, and having health insurance is important to protect yourself in case of injury or illness. In this article, we will provide an overview of health insurance options available for Uber and Lyft drivers, why it’s important to have health insurance, and how to find individual health insurance that fits your needs and budget.

Does Uber and Lyft provide health insurance?

In most situations, the short answer is most likely no, Uber and Lyft do not provide health insurance for their drivers. However, they do offer a few limited benefits, such as accident insurance and occupational accident insurance. Accident insurance covers eligible medical expenses for drivers who are injured while driving for Uber or Lyft. Occupational accident insurance covers eligible medical expenses and lost income for drivers who are injured while driving for Uber or Lyft and cannot work.

While these benefits are helpful, they are not a substitute for health insurance. It’s important for Uber and Lyft drivers to have their own health insurance coverage to ensure that they are protected in case of illness or injury.

Types of insurance available for self-employed workers

Self-employed individuals, including Uber and Lyft drivers, have several options for health insurance coverage. These include:

• Individual health insurance: Individual health insurance policies are available for purchase on the open market. These policies provide coverage for medical expenses, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription drugs. Individual health insurance policies can be purchased through insurance brokers, online marketplaces, or directly from insurance companies.

• Short-term health insurance: Short-term health insurance policies provide temporary coverage for individuals who need insurance for a limited period, such as between jobs or during a gap in coverage. These policies typically have lower premiums than traditional health insurance policies but may not provide the same level of coverage.
• Health care sharing ministries: Health care sharing ministries are nonprofit organizations that provide a way for members to share the cost of medical expenses. Members make monthly contributions that are used to pay for medical expenses incurred by other members. These programs are not insurance and do not guarantee payment of medical bills.
• Association health plans: Association health plans allow self-employed individuals to join together to purchase health insurance coverage. These plans may offer lower premiums and better benefits than individual policies, but they may not be available in all states. Association health plans are another option for self-employed workers, including Uber and Lyft drivers. These plans are typically offered by professional or trade organizations and can provide coverage to members at a lower cost. However, it is important to carefully review the coverage and benefits of these plans, as they may not provide the same level of protection as individual health insurance plans or those offered through the Affordable Care Act marketplace.

Affordable Care Act

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires most Americans to have health insurance or pay a penalty. The law also established marketplaces where individuals can purchase health insurance coverage. The ACA provides subsidies to help individuals with low or moderate incomes pay for health insurance. Uber and Lyft drivers may be eligible for subsidies if their income falls within certain limits. The Affordable Care Act marketplace is another option for Uber and Lyft drivers who need health insurance coverage. The marketplace offers a range of plans with varying levels of coverage and cost. Drivers may be eligible for premium tax credits, which can help reduce the cost of their monthly premiums. It is important to note that the open enrollment period for the marketplace is typically from November to December of each year, so drivers should plan ahead and enroll during this time period.

How to find individual health insurance as an Uber/Lyft driver

Finding the right health insurance coverage can be a daunting task. Here are some steps you can take to find individual health insurance that fits your needs and budget:

• Determine your health care needs 
• Consider your medical history, prescription drug needs, and any ongoing health conditions when choosing a health insurance policy.

Research available plans

Visit online marketplaces or insurance company websites to compare available plans and premiums. Consider factors such as deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums when comparing plans.

Consult with an insurance broker

An insurance broker can help you navigate the complex world of health insurance and find a policy that meets your needs.

Check for subsidies

If you have a low or moderate income, you may be eligible for subsidies to help pay for health insurance premiums.

When Uber and Lyft drivers can sign up for their own insurance

If you are an Uber or Lyft driver, you can sign up for health insurance during the annual open enrollment period, which typically runs from November 1 to December 15 each year. You may also be eligible for a special enrollment period if you experience a qualifying life event, such as a loss of coverage due to job loss or divorce.

Types of insurance available for self-employed workers

As self-employed workers, Uber and Lyft drivers have several health insurance options available to them. Here are some of the most common types of health insurance for self-employed individuals:

• Marketplace plans: Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), self-employed individuals can purchase health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace. These plans are available during the open enrollment period, which usually runs from November to December. To enroll, drivers must provide proof of income and residency.

• Short-term health insurance: Short-term health insurance plans are designed to provide temporary coverage for individuals who need health insurance for a short period of time, such as between jobs. These plans typically have lower premiums than traditional health insurance plans, but they may not provide the same level of coverage.

• Health sharing ministries: Health sharing ministries are nonprofit organizations that provide a way for members to share medical expenses. Members pay a monthly fee, and when a member needs medical care, the ministry distributes the costs to other members. These plans are not regulated by the government and may not cover all types of  medical care.

• Private health insurance: Uber and Lyft drivers can also purchase private health insurance directly from an insurance company. These plans may offer more flexibility and customization than marketplace plans, but they can also be more expensive.

While Uber and Lyft do not provide health insurance to their drivers, there are a variety of health insurance options available to self-employed workers. It is important for Uber and Lyft drivers to carefully review their options and choose a plan that provides the coverage and benefits they need at a price they can afford. By taking the time to find the right health insurance plan, Uber and Lyft drivers can protect themselves and their families from the risks and dangers associated with their job, and ensure that they are able to access the care they need when they need it most.