Individual Health Insurance

Individual Health Insurance, The Affordable Care Act (ACA), “Obamacare”, Marketplace Exchange

No matter what you call it, understanding health insurance coverage for people who are under 65,    self-employed, or in between employer group coverage can be a challenge. We have certified agents who are able to help you make the choice that best fits your needs. 

Unless you have a qualifying life event, you may have to wait until Open Enrollment to apply for coverage.

There are 4 basic types of qualifying life events.

(The following are examples, not a full list.)

1. Loss of health coverage

   • Losing existing health coverage, including job-based, individual, and student plans

   • Losing eligibility for Medicare, Medicaid, or CHIP

   • Turning 26 and losing coverage through a parent’s plan

2. Changes in household

   • Getting married or divorced

   • Having a baby or adopting a child

   • Death in the family

3. Changes in residence

   • Moving to a different ZIP code or county

   • A student moving to or from the place they attend school

   • A seasonal worker moving to or from the place they both live and work

   • Moving to or from a shelter or other transitional housing

4. Other qualifying events

   • Changes in your income that affect the coverage you qualify for

   • Gaining membership in a federally recognized tribe or status as an Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) Corporation shareholder

   • Becoming a U.S. citizen

   • AmeriCorps members starting or ending their service

Open Enrollment occurs annually from November 1st through December 15th with an effective date of January 1.  

Who may need individual health insurance?

• People who don’t have health insurance through an employer

• Turning 26 and losing a parent’s employer group coverage

• People in between employer group plans 

•  A spouse who may not yet be eligible for Medicare