This month, health insurance rates are being set across the country, and projected premium increases could force some tough choices during open enrollment, which begins Nov. 1.
What factors determine the health insurance I should buy?
Employers with more than 50 employees must offer you health insurance. If you work for a smaller company or are self-employed, you likely will be shopping among plans that qualify you based on your health. If your income is too high to qualify for an ACA plan and you qualify for a low-risk health plan, then that is your best bet.
How should I approach family health insurance?
If you have a low income, you might qualify for a government subsidy or even Medicaid. If not, and you don't have a good employer plan, then look into private plans. Since those plans are based on health, each family member would have to be fairly healthy, as they underwrite your costs individually.
Does owning my own business or being self-employed make any difference?
Health insurance rates today are either based on income or health. If you are self-employed, you can look into getting a plan that's part of an association (AARP, NASE, AIBC, ABC, etc.) that offer additional benefits for your business and could give you more tax incentives.
Are “pre-existing conditions” still a factor?
There are no longer pre-existing conditions clauses if you sign up with a plan through the ACA or your employer. Private carriers, since they're outside the ACA, may decline to cover someone who has a pre-existing condition.
Why does USHealth have the word “group” in it?
USHealth plans are designed for individuals, families, or small groups. It covers a very low-risk health pool, so the rates are generally lower.