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

Health Insurance for Landscaping Contractors in Kearns, UT

Landscaping contractors in Kearns can find individual health insurance plans through HealthCare.gov.
Premium tax credits (subsidies) are available for those earning between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level.
Utah's marketplace offers HMO and EPO plans; PPO plans are not available on-exchange for subsidized coverage.
Five confirmed carriers, including Select Health and Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Utah, offer plans in Kearns' Rating Area 3.
Utah Medicaid is expanded, covering adults up to 138% FPL and pregnant women up to 144% FPL.

As a self-employed landscaping contractor in Kearns, Utah, securing reliable health insurance is crucial for protecting yourself and your family. Unlike traditional employees, you're responsible for finding your own coverage, which can seem complex. The good news is that Utah's health insurance marketplace, accessible through HealthCare.gov, offers a range of individual and family plans, often with significant financial assistance. This guide will help you understand your options, from subsidized marketplace plans to Utah Medicaid, ensuring you can make an informed decision for your health and financial security.

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Understanding Your Health Insurance Options in Kearns

For independent contractors and self-employed individuals in Kearns, the primary avenue for comprehensive and affordable health insurance is the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace via HealthCare.gov. This federal exchange allows you to compare plans, check eligibility for subsidies, and enroll during the annual Open Enrollment Period or special enrollment periods triggered by qualifying life events.

ACA Marketplace Plans: HMOs and EPOs

In Utah, the marketplace offers two main types of plans: Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) and Exclusive Provider Organizations (EPOs). It's important to note that PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plans are not available on-exchange in Utah.

HMO Plans: These plans typically require you to choose a primary care provider (PCP) within the network who then refers you to specialists. They generally have lower out-of-pocket costs and premiums but offer less flexibility in choosing providers outside the network.
EPO Plans: EPOs offer a bit more flexibility than HMOs, as you usually don't need a PCP referral to see a specialist. However, they generally do not cover out-of-network care, except in emergencies.

Both HMOs and EPOs in Utah's Rating Area 3 (which covers Davis, Salt Lake, Summit, Tooele, Wasatch counties) provide essential health benefits, including doctor visits, prescription drugs, emergency care, and maternity services.

How Subsidies Reduce Your Costs

Many self-employed landscaping contractors in Kearns qualify for financial assistance, known as premium tax credits, to lower their monthly insurance premiums. Eligibility is based on your household income relative to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).

Premium Tax Credits: These subsidies are available if your household income is between 100% and 400% of the FPL. They can be applied directly to your monthly premiums, reducing your out-of-pocket cost.
Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs): If your income is below 250% FPL, you may also qualify for CSRs, which lower your deductibles, co-payments, and out-of-pocket maximums. CSRs are only available with Silver-tier plans.

The amount of assistance you receive depends on your income, household size, and the cost of the benchmark Silver plan in your area.

Utah Medicaid for Low-Income Contractors

Utah expanded its Medicaid program in 2020, making it available to more low-income adults. If your income as a landscaping contractor falls below certain thresholds, you may qualify for Utah Medicaid, which provides comprehensive coverage at little to no cost.

Adults: Adults with household income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level qualify for Utah Medicaid.
Pregnant Women: Utah Medicaid covers pregnant women with income up to 144% FPL, providing extensive prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care.
Children (CHIP): Uninsured children in households up to 200% FPL are eligible for the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

You can apply for Utah Medicaid through the state's Medicaid portal at medicaid.utah.gov. This can be a vital safety net for contractors experiencing fluctuating income or financial hardship.

Health Insurance Carriers in Kearns

In 2026, 5 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 3, which covers Davis, Salt Lake, Summit, Tooele, Wasatch counties. These carriers provide a range of HMO and EPO plan options for Kearns residents:

BridgeSpan Health Company
Imperial Health Plan of Utah
Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Utah
Select Health
University of Utah Health Plans

When choosing a plan, consider the network of doctors and hospitals. Kearns residents have access to numerous facilities in Salt Lake County, including major systems like Holy Cross Hospital - Salt Lake, University of Utah Hospital and Clinics, and Intermountain Medical Center. Ensure your preferred providers are in-network with your chosen plan.

Choosing the Right Plan for Your Landscaping Business

Selecting the best health insurance plan involves evaluating your health needs, budget, and desired level of coverage.

Plan Tier	Key Features	Best For
Bronze	Lowest monthly premiums, highest deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums. Covers essential health benefits.	Healthy individuals who want protection against catastrophic medical costs and rarely visit the doctor.
Silver	Moderate premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket maximums. Eligible for Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs) if income qualifies.	Individuals or families with moderate health needs, those who qualify for CSRs, or who want a balance of monthly costs and out-of-pocket expenses.
Gold	Higher monthly premiums, lower deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums. Pays a larger share of medical costs.	Individuals or families with regular medical needs, chronic conditions, or those who prefer predictable costs and don't mind higher premiums.

As a self-employed contractor, you can also deduct health insurance premiums from your taxes if you meet certain IRS criteria, potentially reducing your taxable income. Consult with a tax professional for personalized advice on deducting health insurance costs.

Kearns, located in Salt Lake County, is part of Utah's Rating Area 3. This area, which also includes Davis, Summit, Tooele, and Wasatch counties, serves a population of 1,196,523 with an uninsured rate of 9.2%, per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates. Major hospitals like Holy Cross Hospital - Salt Lake and University of Utah Hospital and Clinics are vital for residents seeking acute care, emphasizing the importance of in-network coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What health insurance options are available for landscaping contractors in Kearns?

Landscaping contractors in Kearns can access individual and family plans through HealthCare.gov, including subsidized options. Key local carriers include Select Health and Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Utah. Off-marketplace plans are also available, though without subsidies.

Can I get a subsidy for health insurance as a self-employed landscaping contractor?

Yes, if your household income falls between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you may qualify for premium tax credits that reduce your monthly health insurance costs. Many self-employed individuals find these subsidies make coverage much more affordable. You can apply through HealthCare.gov to see your eligibility.

Are PPO plans available on the marketplace in Kearns, Utah?

No, PPO plans are not available on the HealthCare.gov marketplace in Utah. Kearns residents, like all Utahns, will find plan options structured as Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) and Exclusive Provider Organizations (EPOs) when shopping for subsidized coverage through the exchange. PPO plans may be available off-marketplace, but typically without premium subsidies.

What is the income limit for Utah Medicaid for adults?

Utah expanded Medicaid in 2020. Adults with household income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) may qualify for comprehensive Utah Medicaid coverage. For pregnant women, the threshold is slightly higher, at 144% FPL. Applications can be submitted through medicaid.utah.gov.