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If you are self-employed, and are not participating in either the AgriPlan or BizPlan program, you're paying too much for health care.

These plans allow farmers and small business owners to deduct 100 percent of their health care costs by paying these expenses with pre-tax income. "Assuming you spend $7,000 per year for family medical expenses including health insurance premiums and out-of-pocket expenses, you could save $2,450 with AgriPlan/BizPlan," said Clint Carter of TASC, the company that administers these plans. This example is based on a 35 percent total tax rate, including federal, state and other taxes. You would only pay tax on your income after medical expenses have been paid.

In addition to health insurance premiums and any medical expenses such as vision, dental and other bills that may not be covered by your insurance, you can also pay for employee disability and term insurance under these plans.

To qualify for AgriPlan or BizPlan, business owners must be able to legitimately employ their spouse. For corporations, family employment is not necessary. Those who qualify include sole proprietors, partnerships, limited liability companies and corporations.

Farm Bureau members receive a discounted fee for enrolling in these plans. For more information or to enroll in AgriPlan/BizPlan, call 800-422-4661 then press 7 for Customer Service. Or, find a local provider online at www.tasconline.com/agriplan_bizplan.htm.

AgriPlan and BizPlan are administered by Total Administrative Services Corporation and are based on IRS Code Section 105 and Revenue Ruling 71-588.