Independent worker & entrepreneur benefits

Work for yourself? Get the benefits an employer would normally provide.

Freelancers, 1099 contractors, gig workers, consultants, and small-business owners: start with a quick benefits check, then choose everyday member benefits, major medical health coverage, or both.

Start with a 60-second Benefits Check ↓Compare your options ↓

Step 1 · Start here

See every benefit option for the modern workforce in 60 seconds.

The Benefits Check covers health coverage, dental and vision, telehealth, life and income protection, prescription savings, and retirement planning, then points you to the right next step.

Start my Benefits Check →

Step 2 · Choose what you need

Two programs for two different needs.

Everyday member benefits and major medical health coverage are separate. Many people who work for themselves use both.

Everyday member benefits

AFE membership

A membership for people who work for themselves, with the everyday benefits an employer would normally offer.

Telemedicine without a trip to the office
Dental and vision savings through participating providers
Legal support through designated consultation resources
Financial tools and member resources
Everyday discounts, education, and community

More benefits after you join. Eligible members may have access to additional group-based programs, including group life insurance opportunities. Availability, eligibility, terms, and coverage are determined by the applicable program or carrier.

AFE membership is not health insurance and does not replace it. Some benefits are discounts, consultations, or access programs. Pricing and terms are set by the program and may vary by location.

Join AFE →

Major medical health coverage

LIFEX health coverage access

Become a very part-time W-2 Research Associate with LifeX Research Corporation and gain access to employer-sponsored group health plans, without waiting for open enrollment.

About 15 minutes a month: short health research activities such as surveys, videos, and logging vitals, done anytime, anywhere
Paid for your time: $40 per hour, prorated by activity, per LifeX
Group health plans that LifeX describes as ACA-compliant and comprehensive, on PHCS PPO and Cigna PPO/EPO networks
Good fit for sole proprietors, 1099 contractors, people losing coverage, or anyone unhappy with Marketplace plan costs or provider choices

Eligibility and participation requirements apply, and premiums must be paid on time to keep coverage. Not currently available in AK, HI, MD, MN, NH, OR, VT, or WA. Plan details, costs, and enrollment are determined by LifeX and the applicable plan.

Explore LIFEX →Learn more first

Join AFE opens our AFE information page, where you can review pricing, benefits, and terms before enrolling. Explore LIFEX opens LifeX’s own application site. Nothing you enter on Alan Bush 360 is sent to either one.

Looking for your own individual or family life insurance instead? See Life Insurance.

Common questions

Questions about independent worker benefits.

Is AFE membership health insurance?

No. AFE provides access to benefits such as telemedicine and dental and vision savings, but it is not health insurance. For major medical coverage, see the LIFEX option above.

Can I use both?

Yes. They cover different needs: AFE for everyday member benefits, LIFEX for major medical coverage.

Is LIFEX a real job?

Yes. LifeX Research Corporation employs Research Associates as W-2 employees who are paid for completing short monthly health research activities. Active Research Associates can enroll in LifeX-sponsored group health plans.

Does AFE membership include life insurance?

Not automatically. Eligible members may be able to access group-based programs, including group life insurance opportunities, after membership begins. Eligibility and terms are set by the program or carrier.

Does Alan Bush 360 provide this service directly?

No. Alan Bush 360 provides education and routing. The program operates separately and uses its own enrollment process and terms.