Who this is for
If you’re under 65 and don’t get health insurance through an employer, you’re buying coverage on your own. That includes:
- Self-employed people, freelancers, and gig workers
- Early retirees who aren’t yet eligible for Medicare
- People between jobs or losing employer coverage
- Families buying their own coverage
- Anyone who missed open enrollment and needs options
Your main coverage options
ACA Marketplace plans
Plans sold through HealthCare.gov or your state’s exchange. They must cover essential health benefits and can’t deny you or charge more for pre-existing conditions. Depending on your income, you may qualify for premium tax credits that lower your monthly cost. You can enroll during the annual open enrollment period or after a qualifying life event.
ACA plans bought off the exchange
The same kinds of ACA-compliant plans can be bought directly from an insurer or through an agent. They follow the same coverage rules, but premium tax credits are only available through the Marketplace.
Short-term health insurance
Temporary coverage meant to bridge a gap. Premiums are often lower, but these plans can deny coverage or exclude pre-existing conditions and usually don’t cover all essential benefits. How long a plan can last depends on federal and state rules, and some states don’t allow them at all.
Fixed indemnity and supplemental plans
These pay a set dollar amount for specific services, like a doctor visit or hospital day. They can help with out-of-pocket costs but aren’t a replacement for comprehensive coverage.
Health care sharing ministries
Members share medical costs, but these programs aren’t insurance, aren’t regulated as insurance, and don’t guarantee payment of claims.
COBRA
If you’re leaving a job, you may be able to keep your employer’s plan for a limited time, often up to 18 months. You’ll typically pay the full premium plus a small administrative fee, which can be expensive.
Before you buy: plans that aren’t ACA-compliant may cost less, but they can exclude pre-existing conditions, cap benefits, and leave you with large bills. Make sure you understand what a plan does and doesn’t cover.
Why work with a licensed agent
Agents are licensed by your state and can explain the options available where you live, compare plans from multiple insurers, and help you check whether your doctors and prescriptions are covered. Their help usually costs you nothing extra.
Please note: LocalQuotes.online is not an insurance company, agency, or broker and is not affiliated with HealthCare.gov or any government agency. We connect you with licensed agents and marketing partners who may contact you about plans. Not all plans are available in all states, and plan details vary. We may be compensated by the agents and partners we connect you with. This page is general information, not insurance, legal, or tax advice.