Self-Employed Health Insurance for Salon and Barbershop Owners in Orem, Utah

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

Self-employed salon and barbershop owners in Orem can access subsidies for ACA plans on HealthCare.gov, potentially lowering monthly premiums significantly.
Utah expanded Medicaid in 2020, covering adults up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), or around $20,782 for an individual.
In 2026, five confirmed carriers offer HMO and EPO plans in Orem's Rating Area 4, including Select Health and Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Utah.
PPO plans are NOT available on the Utah health insurance marketplace; shoppers will choose between HMO and EPO network types.

As a self-employed salon or barbershop owner in Orem, Utah, securing affordable health insurance is a critical business decision, balancing cost, coverage, and the specific needs of your independent professional life. The good news for 2026 is that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace, accessible through HealthCare.gov, provides robust options, often with significant financial assistance. Understanding how subsidies work, the types of plans available in Orem's Rating Area 4, and the local carrier landscape is key to choosing the right coverage for yourself and your family.

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 Health Insurance Options Are Available to Self-Employed Professionals in Orem?

For self-employed salon and barbershop owners in Orem, your primary avenues for health insurance are typically individual plans purchased through the ACA Marketplace or, if you have employees, a small group health plan.

ACA Marketplace Plans (HealthCare.gov)

The vast majority of self-employed individuals in Utah find their coverage through HealthCare.gov. This marketplace allows you to compare plans from various private insurance companies and, crucially, apply for federal subsidies that can substantially reduce your monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs. These subsidies include:

Premium Tax Credits: These credits lower your monthly premium payments. Eligibility is based on your household income relative to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). For 2026, individuals and families with incomes between 100% and 400% FPL may qualify for these credits.
Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs): Available to those with incomes up to 250% FPL, CSRs reduce your deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums. These are only available if you enroll in a Silver-tier plan.

In Orem, which is part of Utah County and Rating Area 4, the marketplace offers Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) and Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) plans. It's important to note that PPO plans are not available on-exchange in Utah, meaning your choice for subsidy-eligible coverage will focus on these two network types.

Utah Medicaid

Utah expanded its Medicaid program in 2020, making it available to adults with household incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). If your income from your salon or barbershop business falls within this range, you may qualify for comprehensive, no-cost health coverage through Utah Medicaid. This is a critical safety net, offering full coverage for medical services, prescriptions, and more. Pregnant women in Utah may qualify for Medicaid up to 144% FPL, and children up to 200% FPL through CHIP. You can apply through Utah's Medicaid portal at medicaid.utah.gov.

Off-Marketplace Plans

You can also purchase health insurance directly from an insurance company outside of HealthCare.gov. However, if you buy an off-marketplace plan, you will not be eligible for Premium Tax Credits or Cost-Sharing Reductions, even if your income would otherwise qualify. These plans may include PPO options not found on the marketplace.

Understanding Plan Types and Networks in Orem, Utah

When choosing a health plan in Orem, understanding the difference between available network types is crucial, especially since PPO plans are not offered on the HealthCare.gov marketplace in Utah.

Plan Type	Description	Referral Requirement	Out-of-Network Coverage
HMO (Health Maintenance Organization)	Typically requires you to choose a Primary Care Provider (PCP) within the network who coordinates all your care.	Yes, generally required for specialist visits.	No coverage for out-of-network care, except in emergencies.
EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization)	Offers a network of doctors and hospitals. You do not need a PCP referral to see a specialist within the network.	No, typically not required for in-network specialists.	No coverage for out-of-network care, except in emergencies.

Both HMO and EPO plans emphasize in-network care. For salon and barbershop owners who value flexibility, an EPO might offer slightly more direct access to specialists without a referral, but both require you to stay within the plan's network for covered services.

Health Insurance Carriers in Orem

For 2026, 5 carriers offer marketplace plans in Orem's Rating Area 4. These carriers provide a range of HMO and EPO plans across different metal tiers (Bronze, Silver, Gold). The confirmed local carriers for Orem and Utah County are:

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

When reviewing plans, consider the specific networks offered by each carrier. For instance, you might want to check if your preferred doctors or local hospitals, such as Orem Community Hospital or Timpanogos Regional Hospital, are included in a carrier's network before enrolling. Utah County, with a population of 705,400, is served by 6 acute care hospitals, including Intermountain Health Utah Valley Hospital in Provo. Per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates, Orem has a population of 97,182 with an uninsured rate of 10.1%, slightly higher than Utah County's 7.5%.

Choosing the Right Plan: A Step-by-Step Guide for Orem Salon Owners

Selecting the ideal health insurance plan involves assessing your health needs, financial situation, and preferences for network access.

Estimate Your Income: Your projected net income from your salon or barbershop business will determine your eligibility for subsidies and Medicaid. Use your estimated 2026 income to apply for plans on HealthCare.gov. Remember to account for business expenses when calculating your net income.
Explore Metal Tiers:
- Bronze plans: Lowest monthly premiums, highest deductibles and out-of-pocket costs. Best if you expect minimal medical care.
- Silver plans: Moderate premiums and out-of-pocket costs. Crucially, these are the only plans eligible for Cost-Sharing Reductions if your income is below 250% FPL.
- Gold plans: Higher monthly premiums, lower deductibles and out-of-pocket costs. Suitable if you anticipate frequent medical care or have ongoing health conditions.
Review Carrier Networks: Since Orem offers HMO and EPO plans, verify that your preferred doctors, specialists, and hospitals (like Orem Community Hospital) are in the network of any plan you consider. Each of the five local carriers, including Select Health and University of Utah Health Plans, will have distinct networks.
Consider Tax Deductions: As a self-employed individual, you may be able to deduct the cost of your health insurance premiums from your taxes, provided you meet certain IRS criteria and are not eligible for an employer-sponsored plan. Consult a tax professional for specific advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are my health insurance options if I own a salon or barbershop in Orem?

As a self-employed individual in Orem, you can typically access health coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace at HealthCare.gov. Depending on your income, you may qualify for subsidies (Premium Tax Credits and Cost-Sharing Reductions) to lower your monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs. Small group plans are also an option if you have employees, though individual marketplace plans are often more cost-effective for solo owners.

Can I get a PPO plan on the Utah health insurance marketplace?

No, PPO plans are not available on the HealthCare.gov marketplace in Utah. For 2026, marketplace shoppers in Orem, Utah, will choose between HMO and EPO network structures. While PPOs may be available off-marketplace, they typically do not qualify for federal subsidies.

What income level qualifies for Utah Medicaid for self-employed individuals?

Utah expanded Medicaid in 2020. Self-employed adults in Orem with household incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) may qualify for Utah Medicaid, which offers comprehensive coverage with no premiums. For 2026, 138% FPL is approximately $20,782 for an individual or $43,056 for a family of four.

Are there specific health insurance carriers for Orem, Utah?

Yes, in 2026, five carriers offer marketplace plans in Orem's Rating Area 4. These include BridgeSpan Health Company, Imperial Health Plan of Utah, Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Utah, Select Health, and University of Utah Health Plans. It is advisable to compare plans from these carriers on HealthCare.gov to find the best fit for your needs.