6 Questions to Answer Before Visiting Healthcare.gov
December 23rd is fast approaching. Time to finish holiday shopping. Time to implement strategies for minimizing taxes. And time to navigate the rules of the Federal Government’s Affordable Care Act (ACA) and the cumbersome healthcare.gov website!
December 23rd is the deadline to purchase health insurance through the federal exchange. But before attempting it, answer these questions to save yourself time and money.
Do you have an employer-sponsored plan? If the answer is yes, don’t waste time registering with the ACA. Your current plan is probably the better choice.
Do you currently have your own health insurance plan? If the answer is yes, and you want to keep your doctor and network of providers, then don’t waste time registering with the ACA. Your current plan will serve you better.
Do you qualify for the ACA tax subsidies? If the answer is no, you may not want to spend time researching the ACA plans. The ACA plan will cost you more and your deductibles will be higher.
Are you young with no preexisting conditions? If the answer is yes, a health plan from a health insurance company will be cheaper (unless you qualify for the ACA tax subsidy).
Do you have a pre-existing condition? If the answer is yes, your time will be well spent researching the ACA options.
Has your private insurance plan been cancelled? If the answer is yes, your time will be well spent researching the ACA options.
Regardless of which plan you need, be sure to analyze your various options with the help of a health insurance professional. And beware of slick marketing by the government and private sector telling you if a plan is “right for you.” Only you can confidently decide on the plan that best fits your situation and budget.
