Medical Savings Insurance

We seek to "self-employment", or retirement. A high deductible medical insurance seems that our most likely avenue for health insurance. We wish to pay with pre-tax dollars. We both participated in cafeteria plans, while full employment.

(I already read the Wikipedia article on the subject, so please do not post it again.)

For individuals, whether independent or not, I suggest you plan a health savings account (HSA) qualified. The HSA account is funded before tax, it rolls over year after year, the growth is tax deferred, and money comes out tax-free for almost all medical. The best, high-deductible insurance will pay for everything at 100% after deduction. When you go to the doctor the amount you pay (which may come from the HSA account) goes to the franchise.

You'll want to read IRS Publication 969 for information concerning the tax treatment of MSA and HSA plans. You should also consult a local independent for more assistance. The agent can explain everything fully and may also find the best insurance plan for your situation and your budget.