Dental and Vision Insurance for the Self-Employed 

Being self-employed means that you’re accustomed to organizing a lot yourself. You probably enjoy the added freedom and flexibility of working independent of others, but sometimes that also leads to tougher decisions and added responsibility. If you are self-employed or a freelancer, you don’t need to make the choice between dental insurance and vision insurance. With individual insurance plans, you can get coverage for both without breaking the bank. 

What are dental insurance options for the self-employed?

Most dental plans follow a 100–80–50 structure: 

  • 100% of the costs associated with preventative procedures will be covered. Normally, that includes regular checkups, cleanings, and X-rays.
  • 80% of the costs of basic procedures like fillings and root canals are covered.
  • Finally, 50% of advanced procedures like crowns and bridges are also covered by the provider. 

Lower-cost dental plans may offer reduced coverage. Read the dental plan details carefully to be sure. 

As an individual, you will have the option of choosing between four different types of dental plans for you and your dependents (family members): 

  • HMOs (Dental Health Maintenance Organizations) provide you access to a specific network of dentists and facilities. You pay a monthly premium and have to stay in network.
  • PPOs (Dental Preferred Provider Organizations) include more flexibility to see dentists outside of the contracted network. Coverage may be reduced outside of the network, but if you are enrolled in a PPO, you will generally receive discounts on normal fees associated with your dental coverage.
  • Indemnity plans don’t have a defined insurance network. You choose your dentist freely and you do not require referrals for most procedures. Your provider pays a percentage of the costs after a service has been provided, only after you have paid the preset deductible.
  • Dental discount programs require a membership fee monthly or annually to receive discounts on a variety of dental services. There are no copays, deductibles, or reimbursements, but rather reduced prices on the services you choose. 

What are vision insurance options for the self-employed?

Like dental plan options, individual vision insurance plans are split up into HMOs, PPOs, indemnity plans, and vision discount programs. Many of the same principles mentioned above apply, but it’s very important to read through the vision coverage details and benefits of each plan before deciding which one is right for you.

For example, not every individual vision insurance plan provides coverage for both contact lenses and eyeglass frames, but rather one or the other. The vision plans that provide coverage for both might be slightly more expensive, but it will save you money in the long run if you require both on a regular basis. 

What is the cost of being insured versus uninsured?

Below are the estimated costs you would expect to pay for the most common dental and vision services provided by optometrists and dentists respectively.

Vision Services Cost Comparison

Service Cost Without Insurance Cost With Insurance
Eye Exam $154 – $210 $15 (copay)
Eyeglass Frames $159 – $251 $9 – $81
Eyeglass Lenses $86 – $115 $25 (copay)

Dental Services Cost Comparison

Service Cost Without Insurance Cost With Insurance
Exam with Cleaning $203 $40 – $100
Fillings $226 $25 – $100
Crowns with Tooth Removal $2,600 $520 – $1,300
Root Canal See Details $1,165

 

The costs listed for dental and vision services are estimates and may vary based on location, provider, and insurance plan. Always consult with your insurance provider or healthcare professional for the most accurate and updated pricing. Cost with dental insurance may vary, depending on whether the coverage deductible has been met. 

Dental and Vision Insurance Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Can I get dental and vision insurance without being employed?

Yes! Dental and vision insurance are available for freelancers and gig workers. You can purchase an individual vision plan through private insurance companies like VSP® Individual Vision Plans. You can also buy dental plans directly from dental insurance companies, like Guardian Direct. 

Question: What’s the most flexible insurance type?

The most flexible type of vision insurance is usually an indemnity vision plan, which allows you to choose any eye care provider and get reimbursed for a portion of the cost. However, indemnity vision plans come with higher premiums and more out-of-pocket costs than other plan types.

Question: What is the best insurance for self-employed?

The best insurance depends on your needs. PPO plans offer flexibility, HMOs are budget-friendly, and discount programs work well if you need minimal coverage. Compare options to find what fits your lifestyle. Some of the best individual vision insurance plans are offered by VSP Individual Vision Plans.

Choose the Right Insurance Plan for You

As someone who is self-employed or freelancing it’s up to you to decide what’s best for you and your family. Shop around and see what dental insurance and vision insurance options are available to you. If your typical dental and vision requirements are far and few between, then joining a discount program might be enough to meet your needs. But if you find yourself visiting the dentist often, or you have young children at home with vision problems, then a more robust PPO plan might be your best coverage option. 

With a VSP Individual Vision Plan, you can save annually on essential vision care—from eye exams to eyeglasses and contact lenses. Explore your options for both vision and dental insurance today. After enrolling in your vision plan, be sure to check out dental insurance plans from Guardian Direct® to complete your coverage. Give your eyes and smile the care they deserve! 

Information received through VSP Individual Vision Plans’ social media channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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Healthy vision association discounts

Some plans can only be accessed through membership in the Healthy Vision Association (HVA), which helps its members see well and stay healthy.

For $1.50/mo, your membership will give you access to exclusive discount programs* on everyday goods and services including:

Plus, your membership supports vision-related charities too.

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*All rebates and special offers are subject to change