Can I get health insurance if I own a salon or barbershop in Lombard?

Yes, as a self-employed salon or barbershop owner in Lombard, you can enroll in a health insurance plan through GetCoveredIllinois, the state's official health insurance marketplace. You may qualify for significant subsidies based on your household income to lower your monthly premiums.

What types of health insurance plans are available for self-employed individuals in Illinois?

In Illinois, self-employed individuals can choose from various plan types on the marketplace, including Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO), and Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans. PPO plans are available on-exchange through carriers like Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois, offering more flexibility in choosing providers.

How do subsidies work for self-employed health insurance in Lombard?

Subsidies, known as Premium Tax Credits, are available to eligible self-employed individuals in Lombard through GetCoveredIllinois. These credits reduce your monthly premium costs, and eligibility is based on your household income relative to the Federal Poverty Level. Even with a higher income from your business, you may still qualify for assistance.

What income level qualifies for Illinois Medicaid in DuPage County?

Illinois expanded Medicaid in 2014, meaning adults with household income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level may qualify for comprehensive, low-cost health coverage. This includes many self-employed individuals who might have fluctuating incomes. You can apply through ABE (abe.illinois.gov).

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

Self-Employed Salon and Barbershop Health Insurance in Lombard, Illinois

Self-employed salon and barbershop owners in Lombard can access health insurance through GetCoveredIllinois, potentially with significant subsidies.
In 2026, 5 carriers, including Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois and United Healthcare, offer plans in Rating Area 2, which covers DuPage and Kane counties.
Illinois expanded Medicaid in 2014, providing coverage for adults with income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level.
PPO plans are available on-exchange in Illinois, offering more network flexibility than HMO or EPO options.

As a self-employed salon or barbershop owner in Lombard, Illinois, securing reliable health insurance is crucial for your well-being and financial stability. Fortunately, Illinois provides robust options through its state-based marketplace, GetCoveredIllinois, where you can find comprehensive plans and potentially qualify for significant financial assistance. The market in Lombard, part of DuPage County, is competitive, with multiple carriers offering a range of plan types designed to fit different needs and budgets. Understanding your options, including subsidies and local network availability, is the first step toward finding the right coverage for your unique situation.

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 Are Your Health Insurance Options as a Self-Employed Professional in Lombard?

Self-employed individuals in Lombard have several pathways to health insurance, primarily through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace, GetCoveredIllinois. This platform allows you to compare plans, apply for subsidies, and enroll in coverage that meets federal standards.

ACA Marketplace Plans (GetCoveredIllinois): These plans offer comprehensive benefits, including essential health benefits like prescription drugs, mental health services, and maternity care. Crucially, they cannot deny coverage based on pre-existing conditions. Eligibility for Premium Tax Credits (subsidies) and Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs) is tied to your household income and can significantly lower your out-of-pocket costs.
Illinois Medicaid: If your income falls below a certain threshold, you may qualify for Illinois Medicaid. Illinois expanded Medicaid in 2014, meaning adults with household income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level can receive comprehensive, low-cost health coverage. For a single individual, this means an annual income of approximately $20,120 or less in 2024.
Off-Marketplace Plans: While less common for those who qualify for subsidies, you can also purchase plans directly from insurance carriers outside of GetCoveredIllinois. These plans meet ACA requirements but do not offer federal financial assistance.

For most self-employed salon and barbershop owners, the GetCoveredIllinois marketplace will offer the best value due to the availability of subsidies.

How Do ACA Subsidies Work for Self-Employed Individuals in Illinois?

Many self-employed individuals in Lombard are surprised to learn they qualify for financial help to lower their health insurance costs. Premium Tax Credits are available to individuals and families with household incomes between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), though current legislation has temporarily expanded eligibility beyond 400% FPL, meaning more people qualify for assistance. These subsidies reduce your monthly premium payments, making health insurance more affordable. The exact amount of your subsidy depends on your income, household size, and the cost of the benchmark Silver plan in Rating Area 2, which covers DuPage and Kane counties. In addition to Premium Tax Credits, individuals with incomes up to 250% FPL may also qualify for Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs) if they choose a Silver plan. CSRs reduce your deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums, providing extra financial protection when you use your health services.

Estimated 2026 Monthly Premiums (Before Subsidies) for a 40-Year-Old in Lombard, IL
Plan Metal Tier	Estimated Monthly Premium Range	Key Features
Bronze	$350 - $550	Lowest premiums, highest deductibles. Best for those who rarely visit the doctor.
Silver	$450 - $700	Moderate premiums and deductibles. Eligible for Cost-Sharing Reductions. Good balance of cost and coverage.
Gold	$550 - $850	Higher premiums, lower deductibles. Best for those who expect frequent medical care.

Note: These are estimated ranges for 2026 and do not reflect potential subsidies you may qualify for. Actual costs vary based on age, household size, income, and specific plan choice.

Choosing the Right Plan: HMO, EPO, or PPO in DuPage County?

When selecting a health insurance plan in Lombard, you'll encounter different network types: HMO, EPO, and PPO. The fact sheet confirms that in Illinois, PPO plans ARE available on-exchange, giving marketplace shoppers more choice than in some other states.

HMO (Health Maintenance Organization): Typically offers lower premiums but requires you to choose a primary care provider (PCP) within the network. Your PCP coordinates all your care and usually provides referrals to specialists.
EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization): Similar to an HMO in that it generally doesn't cover out-of-network care, but you typically don't need a referral to see a specialist within the network.
PPO (Preferred Provider Organization): Offers the most flexibility. You don't need a PCP, and you can see any doctor or specialist, in or out of network, without a referral. However, out-of-network care will cost more. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois, for example, offers PPO plans on-exchange in Rating Area 2.

Consider your current doctors, preferred hospitals, and how often you anticipate needing specialist care when making your decision. Lombard, part of DuPage County, has a population of 43,619 with a median income of $100,362, per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates. While DuPage County does not have acute care hospitals within its boundaries, residents often travel to neighboring counties for hospital services, making network flexibility a key consideration for many.

Health Insurance Carriers in Lombard

In 2026, 5 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 2, which covers DuPage and Kane counties. These carriers provide a range of options for self-employed salon and barbershop owners in Lombard:

Ambetter: Known for its range of Bronze, Silver, and Gold plans, often focusing on integrated care.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois: A widely recognized carrier offering a variety of plan types, including PPO options on-exchange, which can be beneficial for those seeking broader network access.
Molina Healthcare: Provides plans that typically focus on affordability and access to care, often with strong local community ties.
Oscar Health: A technology-driven carrier that emphasizes user-friendly digital tools and virtual care options.
United Healthcare: Offers a diverse portfolio of plans, providing various network and benefit designs.

When comparing plans, always verify that your preferred doctors and any necessary specialists are included in the plan's network. This is especially important for self-employed individuals who may have established healthcare relationships.

Navigating Your Enrollment as a Salon or Barbershop Owner

The enrollment process for self-employed health insurance in Lombard typically involves a few key steps:

Determine Eligibility: Assess your estimated household income for the upcoming year to understand your eligibility for Premium Tax Credits and Cost-Sharing Reductions.
Visit GetCoveredIllinois: This is the official marketplace for Illinois. You'll create an account and fill out an application with details about your household and income.
Compare Plans: Review the plans offered by carriers like Ambetter, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois, Molina Healthcare, Oscar Health, and United Healthcare. Pay close attention to premiums, deductibles, copayments, out-of-pocket maximums, and network types (HMO, EPO, PPO).
Enroll: Once you've selected a plan, you can complete the enrollment process directly through GetCoveredIllinois.
Consider Professional Help: A licensed health insurance producer can provide free, personalized assistance to help you navigate the marketplace, compare plans, and understand your subsidy eligibility.

DuPage County, where Lombard is located, has a population of 930,024 and an uninsured rate of 5.2% per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates. This is slightly higher than Lombard's city-specific uninsured rate of 4.8%, highlighting the ongoing need for accessible health coverage options in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I deduct health insurance premiums as a self-employed individual?

Yes, if you are self-employed and not eligible to participate in an employer-sponsored health plan, you can generally deduct the premiums you pay for health insurance. This is known as the self-employed health insurance deduction and can be taken as an adjustment to income, reducing your adjusted gross income (AGI).

What if my income fluctuates throughout the year?

As a self-employed salon or barbershop owner, your income may fluctuate. It's important to report your best estimate of annual income to GetCoveredIllinois. If your income changes significantly, update your application immediately. This ensures your subsidies are adjusted correctly, preventing large tax bills or refunds at the end of the year.

What is the enrollment period for ACA plans in Lombard?

The standard Open Enrollment Period for ACA plans typically runs from November 1st to January 15th each year for coverage starting the following year. However, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) outside of this window if you experience a qualifying life event, such as getting married, having a baby, or losing other health coverage.

Does Illinois Medicaid cover pregnant women and children generously?

Yes, Illinois Medicaid offers expansive coverage for vulnerable populations. Pregnant women with household income up to 213% FPL qualify for comprehensive prenatal, delivery, and 12 months of postpartum care. Illinois All Kids (CHIP equivalent) covers children up to 313% FPL with low-cost coverage, making it one of the most expansive child coverage programs in the country.