Health Coverage Checklist for Self-Employed Albertans

When you don't have group benefits, choosing personal health and dental coverage can feel overwhelming. This plain-English checklist walks you through what to look at, what to compare, and what to ask before you decide.

Know Your Starting Point

• List any coverage you have now — a spouse's group plan, an HSA, or coverage from a previous job.
• Note your Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan basics so you don't pay for what's already provincially covered.
• Write down your budget range for a monthly premium — coverage is personal and cost-sensitive.
• Flag any coverage ending soon, such as leaving a job or approaching retirement, and the exact end date.
• Decide whether you need coverage for yourself only, or for a spouse and children too.

Map Out What You Actually Use

• List your regular prescription medications and roughly what they cost each month.
• Note dental needs — routine cleanings, fillings, or larger work like crowns.
• Check whether you or your family use paramedical care (physio, massage, chiropractic, mental health).
• Add vision needs — eye exams, glasses, or contact lenses.
• Consider any upcoming or expected health needs for the year ahead.

Compare Plans Carefully

• Compare drug, dental, vision and paramedical coverage side by side, not just the headline price.
• Check annual maximums and per-category limits so you know where coverage caps out.
• Ask which plans require a health questionnaire and which offer guaranteed-acceptance options.
• Look for waiting periods — some plans limit coverage for pre-existing conditions early on.
• Compare independent options across carriers such as Alberta Blue Cross, Manulife, Canada Life, Sun Life and Empire Life.
• Note that every plan differs — check the plan booklet for exact amounts and exclusions.

Understand the Fine Print

• Confirm what's excluded — no plan covers everything, so know the gaps.
• Ask how and when claims are submitted and reimbursed.
• Check whether coverage stays with you if you move within Alberta or travel.
• Ask whether the plan can coordinate with a spouse's group plan or your HSA.
• Understand that no advisor can guarantee a specific claim will be approved.

Take the Next Step

• Ask about tax treatment of premiums for self-employed individuals — see [CRA premiums and contributions](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/businesses/topics/payroll/benefits-allowances/benefits-allowances-chart/premiums-contributions.html).
• Gather your medication list, budget and coverage priorities before you talk to an advisor.
• Book a free personal health coverage review to compare your options one-to-one.
• Reach out to AI+Trust Advisory at +1 (780) 977-3155 or alfredo@aitrustadvisory.ca.
• Revisit this checklist yearly, or whenever your work or family situation changes.