New answer on: Where Can I Find Affordable Health Insurance?

By: Edward Harris

Edward Harris — Sat, 17 May 2014 22:25:24 +0000

Affordable health insurance is available for individuals, families and small business owners. But where do you find it? Utilizing an experienced broker that has a top-rated website is your best resource and I stake 33 years of experience as a broker on that fact. Although the government healthcare website is an option, the risk of glitches, security issues, delays and lost information is still a problem (although it's getting better). But just as importantly, you can NOT view or compare "off-Exchange" plans by going to the government website. That's why shoppers that want expert advice and the best rates use a broker (no fees of course). If you qualify for a full federal subsidy, your premium may actually be $0. Otherwise, your rate depends on many factors, including your age, where you live and the type of plan you purchase. Did you miss Open Enrollment because you forgot? A short-term plan (not offered on government website) may be the answer.

By: Jim Winkler

Jim Winkler — Sat, 17 May 2014 17:04:49 +0000

That is a great question! The best place to start is at the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) site, www.healthcare.gov once open enrollment reopens. The Act allows for subsidies for those who qualify ( and a great many do) for helping with the expense of the health care coverage. The discounts can be very steep, and those subsidies may not be available through a private insurer. It never hurts to shop around first, so you have something to compare. Thank you for asking!

By: Neil Steinman

Neil Steinman — Thu, 15 May 2014 23:04:35 +0000

"Affordable" is a relative term. Prices have gone up since the government has mandated that all plans contain certain benefits, such as maternity coverage. On the other hand, if you're eligible for a subsidy, that could bring the price back down. Having said all of that, I think the best way to find the most affordable coverage is to call a local insurance broker as they're already familiar with the landscape.