Getting Started
When you do not receive health insurance through an employer, Individual health insurance gives you the opportunity to select a plan based on your healthcare needs, preferred providers, prescriptions, and budget.
Coverage
Individual health insurance is coverage purchased for yourself or your family rather than provided through an employer. Plans may be available through the Health Insurance Marketplace or directly from an insurance carrier.
Depending on your eligibility and household income, you may qualify for financial assistance that lowers your monthly premium or other out-of-pocket costs.
Indemnity
Coverage varies by plan, but comprehensive health plans may include:
Before enrolling, it is important to review the plan’s provider network, prescription drug formulary, deductible, copays, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket maximum.
How
Individual health insurance may be appropriate if you:
Options
Health insurance plans vary in cost, provider access, and how expenses are shared. When comparing plans, consider:
Monthly Premium
The amount you pay each month to keep your coverage active.
Deductible
The amount you may need to pay for covered healthcare services before the plan begins paying its share.
Copays and Coinsurance
Your portion of the cost when you receive covered services or prescriptions.
Provider Network
The doctors, hospitals, pharmacies, and other healthcare providers that participate in the plan.
Prescription Coverage
The medications covered by the plan and the amount you may pay for each prescription.
Maximum Out-of-Pocket Cost
The most you may be required to pay during the plan year for covered, in-network services, excluding your monthly premiums.
Considerations
Marketplace plans are categorized as Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum. These categories describe how you and the insurance company generally share healthcare costs—they do not indicate the quality of care.
You may qualify for a premium tax credit based on factors such as your household income and family size. Some eligible individuals may also qualify for additional savings on deductibles, copays, and coinsurance when enrolled in a qualifying Silver plan.
Indemnity
You can generally enroll in Marketplace coverage during the annual Open Enrollment Period.
You may be able to enroll at another time if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period following certain life events, such as:
Enrollment periods, deadlines, and eligibility requirements may vary.
Assistance
Choosing health insurance involves more than finding the lowest monthly premium. The right plan should also account for your healthcare needs, doctors, medications, anticipated expenses, and financial situation.
Human Touch Insurance Agency will help you:
Our goal is to provide clear, personal guidance so you can make an informed decision for yourself and your family.