Health insurance for individuals without employer-sponsored coverage

As job structures shift, many workers lack employer-sponsored healthcare. Forward-thinking employers partner with Via Benefits to offer individual coverage without increasing budgets.

As employment structures evolve and the boundaries of traditional jobs shift, health benefits strategies must adapt accordingly. From part-time workers and seasonal staff to early retirees and independent contractors, a growing percentage of the workforce falls outside the bounds of employer-sponsored healthcare. The challenge for organizations is how to continue to demonstrate care and support for these valuable employees when traditional funding models don’t apply.

Forward-looking employers are finding a solution in the individual health insurance market, and many are turning to Via Benefits as a trusted partner to expand benefit access without expanding budgets.

Ineligible for group health insurance

While most organizations do a commendable job supporting their core full-time workforce, there’s increasing awareness around the needs of “unsubsidized” populations. These may include:

  • Retirees, both pre-Medicare and Medicare-eligible, who do not receive employer-provided premium support

  • Part-time, seasonal, and gig workers ineligible for group health benefits

  • New hires within benefits waiting periods

  • Separating employees, either voluntarily leaving or departing under severance agreements

  • Dependents turning 26 years old

These individuals often face limited options, navigating a complex insurance marketplace with little guidance. This not only places a burden on the employee or retiree but can also create risks for the employer.

A smarter, more complete benefits strategy

Employers don’t need to subsidize premiums or administer additional group plans to provide meaningful support. By connecting these individuals to Via Benefits, organizations can extend access to high-quality individual and family plans supported by personalized guidance.

Key advantages include:

  • Plan comparison and advisory services to match individuals with the best fit for their needs and budget

  • Eligibility screening for federal subsidies, which can dramatically lower premium costs

  • Coverage for all ages across medical, prescription, dental, and vision care

And notably, all of this is delivered at no cost to the employer or participant.

Value beyond the core workforce

Organizations who adopt this approach often see benefits that go far beyond just providing access to coverage. They:

  • Demonstrate corporate responsibility and empathy, especially during workforce transitions

  • Enhance employee relations and offboarding experiences

  • Support mental and financial wellness, particularly among variable-hour employees

  • Improve HR efficiency, reducing administrative load and supporting informed decision-making during open enrollment and beyond

This solution isn’t a workaround; it’s a forward-thinking evolution of benefits strategy that aligns with today’s flexible work models.

Simple setup with scalable impact

Employers can easily extend access to individual health coverage to populations not eligible for subsidized group plans, providing them with the same trusted support that has benefited millions of retirees for nearly two decades through Via Benefits. Optional customization services, such as branded communications or decision support, can allow for deeper alignment with your broader benefits messaging.

Building a smarter path forward

As traditional benefits leave key segments of the workforce underserved, now is the time to reimagine how you support populations that have long been overlooked. Whether you're managing a legacy retiree plan, caring for today’s active employees, or exploring new ways to support the people on the edge of eligibility, Via Benefits is here to help you build a benefits strategy that leaves no one behind.

Next
Next

From uncertainty to security: Rethinking retiree health plans with the individual marketplace