Self Employed Health Insurance Deduction Explained

Becoming a self-employed individual comes with many perks. One of the benefits is the ability to deduct health insurance premiums on your tax return. This includes premiums paid for yourself, your spouse, and your dependents. If you are self-employed, you could be eligible for a deduction on your health insurance premiums.

What is Self Employed Health Insurance Deduction?

Self Employed Health Insurance Deduction is a tax deduction that allows self-employed individuals to deduct their health insurance premiums from their taxable income. This deduction is available to individuals who qualify as “self-employed” under IRS guidelines.

It is important to note that this deduction only applies to health insurance premiums paid by the individual who is self-employed. It does not apply to premiums paid by an employer on behalf of the self-employed individual.

Who is Eligible for Self Employed Health Insurance Deduction?

To be eligible for Self Employed Health Insurance Deduction, you must meet the following requirements:

  • You must be self-employed and not eligible for coverage under an employer-sponsored health plan.
  • You must have a net profit for the year from your self-employment. The deduction cannot be greater than your net self-employment income.
  • You must not be eligible for coverage under a spouse’s employer-sponsored health plan.

If you meet all of these requirements, you may be eligible for the Self Employed Health Insurance Deduction.

How Much Can You Deduct?

The amount you can deduct for Self Employed Health Insurance Deduction depends on several factors, including your income and the type of health insurance plan you have. Generally, you can deduct up to 100% of your health insurance premiums on your tax return.

Year
Maximum Deduction
2021
$7,000
2020
$7,100

It is important to note that the deduction cannot be greater than your net self-employment income. If your net self-employment income is less than the maximum deduction amount, the deduction will be limited to your net self-employment income.

How to Claim Self Employed Health Insurance Deduction?

To claim the Self Employed Health Insurance Deduction, you must fill out IRS Form 1040 and attach Schedule 1. On Schedule 1, you will report your self-employed health insurance deduction.

If you have paid your health insurance premiums through your business, you must report the premiums on your business tax return and your personal tax return.

FAQ

What types of health insurance plans are eligible for the deduction?

You can deduct premiums for most types of health insurance plans, including:

  • Medical, dental and vision insurance
  • Long-term care insurance
  • Supplemental Medicare policies
  • Qualified long-term care insurance contracts
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions

Can you deduct health insurance premiums for your family members?

Yes. As an eligible self-employed individual, you can deduct health insurance premiums paid for yourself, your spouse, and your dependents.

Can you claim the deduction if you are eligible for coverage under a spouse’s employer-sponsored health plan?

No. If you are eligible for coverage under a spouse’s employer-sponsored health plan, you are not eligible for the Self Employed Health Insurance Deduction.

Can you claim the deduction for previous year health insurance premiums?

No. Self Employed Health Insurance Deduction is not retroactive. You can only claim a deduction for health insurance premiums paid in the current tax year.

Can you claim the deduction if you are retired?

No. Self Employed Health Insurance Deduction is only available to self-employed individuals who are actively self-employed and not eligible for coverage under an employer-sponsored health plan.

Conclusion

The Self Employed Health Insurance Deduction can significantly reduce your tax liability. As a self-employed individual, it is important to take advantage of this deduction if you meet the eligibility requirements. Don’t forget to keep accurate records of your health insurance premiums paid throughout the year to ensure that you claim the correct deduction amount on your tax return.