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

Health Insurance for Landscaping Contractors in Severn, Maryland

Severn landscaping contractors have options including individual plans via Maryland Health Connection, Maryland Medicaid (HealthChoice) up to 138% FPL, or small business plans.
In 2026, 4 carriers, including CareFirst BlueChoice and Wellpoint, offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 1, covering Severn.
PPO plans ARE available on the Maryland Health Connection, unlike some other state marketplaces, offering more network flexibility.
Severn has an uninsured rate of 6.6%, slightly higher than Anne Arundel County's 4.7%, highlighting the need for coverage awareness.

For landscaping contractors in Severn, Maryland, securing reliable health insurance is essential for protecting both your health and your business. Whether you're a sole proprietor or managing a small team, understanding your coverage options is key. This guide outlines the paths available for self-employed individuals and small business owners in Anne Arundel County, from state-based marketplace plans with potential subsidies to Maryland Medicaid (HealthChoice) and small group solutions. We'll cover what's available through the Maryland Health Connection and how local factors in Severn influence your choices.

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What Are Your Health Insurance Options as a Landscaping Contractor in Severn?

As a landscaping contractor, your health insurance options in Severn largely depend on your employment status and income.

Individual & Family Plans (Maryland Health Connection): If you're self-employed without employees, or if your employees need their own coverage, the Maryland Health Connection (Maryland's state-based marketplace) is the primary avenue. You may qualify for premium tax credits (subsidies) and cost-sharing reductions based on your household income, making plans significantly more affordable.
Maryland Medicaid (HealthChoice): For individuals and families with lower incomes, Maryland's expanded Medicaid program, known as HealthChoice, offers comprehensive coverage with no monthly premiums. Adults with income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) are eligible.
Small Group Health Insurance: If you employ one or more full-time equivalent employees (not including yourself), you may be eligible to offer a small group health plan. This can be a valuable benefit for attracting and retaining talent.
Direct Off-Exchange Plans: You can purchase health insurance directly from a carrier outside of the Maryland Health Connection. These plans are identical to marketplace plans in terms of benefits, but you won't qualify for subsidies.

Severn, with a population of 58,402 and a median income of $134,423 per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates, is part of Anne Arundel County, which hosts major medical facilities like Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center, Inc and University of MD Baltimore Washington Medical Center. Navigating your options to access these local healthcare resources effectively is crucial.

Individual & Family Plans Through the Maryland Health Connection

The Maryland Health Connection is the official marketplace where Severn residents can shop for individual and family health insurance plans. Eligibility for financial assistance is a key benefit here.

Who Qualifies for Subsidies?

Individuals and families with household incomes between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) may qualify for premium tax credits that lower monthly premiums. Those with incomes between 100% and 250% FPL may also qualify for cost-sharing reductions (CSRs), which reduce deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums, making Silver plans particularly valuable. For example, a single landscaping contractor in Severn earning $40,000 per year would likely qualify for significant premium tax credits.

Plan Types Available in Severn

In Maryland, marketplace shoppers in Rating Area 1 (which covers Anne Arundel County and 23 other counties) can choose from a variety of plan structures:

HMO (Health Maintenance Organization): Typically requires you to choose a primary care provider (PCP) within the network and get referrals for specialists.
PPO (Preferred Provider Organization): Offers more flexibility, allowing you to see out-of-network providers (though at a higher cost) and usually without needing a referral to see a specialist. PPO plans ARE available on-exchange in Maryland.
EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization): Similar to an HMO in that it generally doesn't cover out-of-network care, but you might not need a referral to see a specialist within the network.

This availability of PPO plans on the Maryland Health Connection provides valuable flexibility for landscaping contractors who may travel for work or prefer broader provider choice.

Maryland Medicaid (HealthChoice) for Lower Incomes

Maryland expanded Medicaid in 2014, known as HealthChoice, providing a critical safety net for lower-income residents of Severn and Anne Arundel County.

Eligibility Thresholds

Adults with income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) are eligible for Maryland Medicaid. For pregnant women, the threshold is significantly higher at 250% FPL, offering comprehensive prenatal, delivery, and extended postpartum care. Children can qualify for the Maryland Children's Health Program (MCHP), the state CHIP equivalent, with household incomes up to 300% FPL. These expanded thresholds ensure that many vulnerable populations in Anne Arundel County have access to essential healthcare services.

Benefits of HealthChoice

Maryland Medicaid provides comprehensive benefits, often with no monthly premiums, deductibles, or copayments. This includes doctor visits, hospital care, prescription drugs, mental health services, and preventive care. For a landscaping contractor experiencing variable income or financial hardship, HealthChoice can provide crucial stability. Applications can be submitted through the Maryland Health Connection or the local Department of Social Services.

Small Group Health Insurance for Landscaping Businesses

If your landscaping business in Severn employs at least one full-time equivalent employee (not including yourself, your spouse, or dependents), you may be eligible to offer a small group health plan. This can be an attractive option for both the owner and employees.

Advantages of Small Group Plans

Attract & Retain Talent: Offering health benefits can help your landscaping business compete for skilled workers.
Tax Benefits: Premiums paid by the employer are generally tax-deductible as a business expense.
Broader Network Options: Small group plans often provide access to a wider range of networks and plan designs compared to individual plans.
Cost Sharing: Employers typically contribute a percentage of the premium, reducing the burden on employees.

Small group plans are purchased through private brokers or directly from carriers, not through the Maryland Health Connection.

Health Insurance Carriers in Severn

In 2026, 4 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 1, which covers Anne Arundel County and includes Severn. These carriers provide a range of plan types, including HMO, PPO, and EPO options.

CareFirst BlueChoice: A prominent insurer in Maryland, offering various plan options.
CareFirst of Maryland: Another key player from the CareFirst family, providing comprehensive coverage.
Optimum Choice: Offers a selection of health plans for Maryland residents.
Wellpoint: A national insurer with a presence in the Maryland marketplace.

When choosing a plan, it's important to compare not only premiums but also deductibles, copayments, out-of-pocket maximums, and the provider networks to ensure your preferred doctors and hospitals (such as Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center, Inc or University of MD Baltimore Washington Medical Center) are covered.

Choosing the Right Plan for Your Landscaping Business

Making the best health insurance decision as a landscaping contractor in Severn involves evaluating your specific situation:

Your Situation	Recommended Path	Key Considerations
Sole Proprietor (no employees)	Maryland Health Connection	Check income for subsidies. Compare HMO, PPO, EPO plans. Consider a Silver plan for potential Cost-Sharing Reductions.
Low Income (below 138% FPL)	Maryland Medicaid (HealthChoice)	Comprehensive coverage with no premiums. Apply via Maryland Health Connection or Department of Social Services.
Small Business Owner (with employees)	Small Group Plan	Evaluate employer contribution, network options, and administrative burden. Consult a broker for options.
High Income (above subsidy limits)	Off-Exchange or Maryland Health Connection	Compare plans directly from carriers. Focus on network, deductible, and out-of-pocket maximums.
Need for Specific Doctors/Hospitals	Verify Network Coverage	Always confirm your preferred providers (e.g., Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center, Inc) are in-network for any plan you consider.

A licensed health insurance producer can help you navigate these options, compare plans from the 4 confirmed carriers in Rating Area 1, and determine your eligibility for financial assistance without any cost to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the health insurance options for a self-employed landscaping contractor in Severn?

Self-employed landscaping contractors in Severn, Maryland, primarily have three main options: individual plans through the Maryland Health Connection marketplace (which may offer subsidies), Maryland Medicaid (HealthChoice) if income-eligible, or direct plans purchased off-exchange. Small business group plans are also an option if you employ staff.

Can I get a PPO health plan through the Maryland Health Connection in Severn?

Yes, PPO plans are available on-exchange through the Maryland Health Connection in Severn. Unlike some other states, Maryland's marketplace offers a choice of HMO, PPO, and EPO structures. In 2026, carriers like CareFirst BlueChoice and CareFirst of Maryland offer PPO options in Rating Area 1, which includes Anne Arundel County.

What income level qualifies a self-employed individual for Maryland Medicaid (HealthChoice) in Anne Arundel County?

In Anne Arundel County, adults with household income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) may qualify for Maryland Medicaid, known as HealthChoice. For a single individual, this threshold is approximately $20,782 per year in 2024. Pregnant women and children have higher income thresholds, up to 250% FPL and 300% FPL respectively.

How do health insurance costs vary for contractors based on plan metal tier in Maryland?

For landscaping contractors in Maryland, plan costs vary significantly by metal tier. Bronze plans typically have the lowest monthly premiums but the highest deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums. Silver plans offer a balance with moderate premiums and cost-sharing reductions (CSRs) for eligible incomes. Gold plans have higher premiums but lower out-of-pocket costs, making them suitable for those expecting frequent medical care. The specific costs depend on your age, household income, and chosen carrier.

What is Rating Area 1 in Maryland, and why is it important for Severn residents?

Rating Area 1 is a multi-county rating area in Maryland that includes Anne Arundel County, where Severn is located, along with 23 other counties. It is important because health insurance premiums for marketplace plans are standardized across all counties within the same rating area. This means that a plan from a specific carrier and metal tier will have the same base premium whether you live in Severn or another county within Rating Area 1.