Quick answer
Not in most states. Uber drivers are independent contractors, so Uber doesn’t provide health insurance the way an employer would. There are two exceptions: in California, drivers who average at least 15 engaged hours a week get a health stipend under Proposition 22, and in Massachusetts, drivers averaging at least 15 active hours a week get one under a 2024 settlement. Most drivers buy their own coverage, often a Marketplace plan with a tax credit.
Key takeaways
- Uber drivers are independent contractors and don’t get employer health insurance from Uber.
- In California, the 2026 Prop 22 stipend is $289 a month at 15 to 24 engaged hours a week and $579 a month at 25 or more, if you’re enrolled in an individual health plan.
- In Massachusetts, the stipend is $202.50 a month at 15 to 25 active hours a week and $405 a month at 25 or more.
- Drivers can buy a Marketplace plan, with tax credits based on their net self-employment income.
- Self-employed drivers can often deduct what they pay for health insurance.
On this page
Why Uber doesn’t offer health insurance
Uber classifies drivers as independent contractors, not employees. The ACA’s rule requiring large employers to offer coverage applies to full-time employees, so it doesn’t cover drivers. Drivers are responsible for their own coverage, except where state law or a settlement requires a stipend.
State health stipends
| State | Who qualifies | Monthly stipend |
|---|---|---|
| California (Prop 22) | 15 to 24 engaged hours a week, averaged each quarter | $289 |
| California (Prop 22) | 25 or more engaged hours a week | $579 |
| Massachusetts | 15 to 25 active hours a week, averaged each quarter | $202.50 |
| Massachusetts | 25 or more active hours a week | $405 |
- California: You must be enrolled in Covered California or another individual-market plan you pay for yourself. Medi-Cal, Medicare and job-based coverage don’t qualify. The stipend is paid quarterly, and Uber may ask for proof of coverage. The rule applies to app-based rideshare and delivery drivers.
- Massachusetts: You must enroll in a qualifying health plan and send proof through Stride Health, which runs the program. The stipend started accruing April 1, 2025, and is paid quarterly.
Your coverage options as a driver
- Marketplace plan. You can buy one during open enrollment or after a qualifying event. Tax credits are based on your household income, which for drivers means net earnings after business expenses. See what is Obamacare and what is a subsidy in health insurance.
- Medicaid. If your income is low, you may qualify; see health insurance for low-income families.
- A spouse’s or parent’s plan. You can join a spouse’s job-based plan, or stay on a parent’s plan until 26; see how long you can stay on your parents’ health insurance.
- COBRA. If you left a job with health insurance to drive, you can usually keep that plan for a while; see COBRA health insurance.
For more, see health insurance for the self-employed.
Deducting your premiums
Self-employed people can often deduct health insurance premiums for themselves and their families. You can’t take the deduction for any month you were eligible for a subsidized job-based plan, through your own job or your spouse’s. Talk to a tax professional about how the deduction and any premium tax credit work together.
More employer guides: Amazon, Chick-fil-A, Chipotle, Costco, CVS, DoorDash, FedEx, Home Depot, Kroger, Lowe’s, Lyft, McDonald’s, Publix, Starbucks, Target, UPS and Walmart.
Driving for Uber? Compare plans by ZIP code.
Frequently asked questions
Does Uber give drivers health insurance?
No. Drivers in California and Massachusetts who drive enough hours can get a health stipend, but Uber doesn’t provide a health plan.
How much is the Prop 22 health stipend?
In 2026, $289 a month at 15 to 24 engaged hours a week and $579 a month at 25 or more, paid quarterly.
Can Uber drivers get Obamacare?
Yes. Drivers can buy Marketplace plans and may qualify for premium tax credits based on their net income.
Do Uber Eats couriers get the California stipend?
Prop 22 covers app-based delivery drivers as well as rideshare drivers who meet the hours requirement.
Sources
This article is general information, not tax advice, and isn’t affiliated with Uber. Last reviewed September 2026.