Did you know that millions of Americans are still without health insurance, despite the various programs and extensions of the last 10 years? In fact, in 2018, 27.5 million people did not have health insurance.
One of the biggest problems is finding health insurance that is affordable and reliable. There are many options, but if you don’t know where to look you might feel lost.
Here’s how you can find affordable health insurance that works for your needs!
Does Your Employer Offer Coverage?
Employer-offered health insurance is the most common source of affordable coverage for most Americans. You might assume that you can’t afford your employer’s coverage, or that they don’t have insurance for you, but it never hurts to ask.
If you work part-time, you might be surprised to find that you can get health insurance plans through your job. More and more companies offer benefits for part-time employees.
If you can’t get coverage from your own employer, do you have a spouse whose plan you could join? Many times the jump from individual to family insurance isn’t as large as finding your own policy.
Finally, under the Affordable Care Act young people up to age 26 can be on their parent’s health insurance. This is another way to access health insurance if your job doesn’t offer it.
Open Enrollment Through the Health Insurance Marketplace
The Affordable Care Act, passed in 2010, established a health insurance marketplace in each state. No matter where you live, you can visit Healthcare.gov and look for affordable, high-quality health insurance in your area.
The marketplace allows you to compare plans from more than one health insurer, so you know the benefits you’re getting for the cost. Best of all, based on your income you might qualify for subsidies to help you afford a Marketplace plan.
Open enrollment is only available once a year for a limited time, so make sure you don’t miss the window. For 2020, open enrollment is available from November 1, 2020, to December 15, 2020.
Do You Qualify for Medicare or Medicaid?
Another great option for affordable health insurance is to look at Medicare or Medicaid.
Medicare is health insurance coverage provided by the federal government for those 65 and older, as well as some disabled individuals. You automatically qualify and can review a variety of options, including special needs plans, at MedicareWire.com.
Medicaid is coverage provided by the state you live in and is for lower-income individuals. If you qualify, you may be able to get the health care you need without any out-of-pocket expenses. You’ll want to reach out to your state’s Medicaid agency for more information.
You Can Find Affordable Health Insurance
Whether you buy from a private health insurance company, a health insurance brokerage, or the federal Marketplace, you have a variety of options for affordable health insurance.
It’s best if you can join an employer plan, as those are the least expensive. Medicare and Medicaid are excellent choices if you qualify, and the Marketplace gives you the opportunity to qualify for subsidies to substantially reduce your cost.
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