Is Individual Health Insurance Right for Me?

If you don't have a plan through an employer, individual coverage is not only right, it's required for almost everyone by the Affordable Care Act. You might have to pay a penalty if you go without coverage.

Think you can't afford health insurance on your own? When you're shopping for plans, you'll be able to see if you qualify for lower costs. Many people do.

Depending on your income and age, you may also be eligible for:

• A catastrophic plan
• Medicaid

If the coverage your employer offers doesn't meet certain federal guidelines, you may be eligible to purchase individual insurance instead.

• The lowest-priced plan your employer offers can't cost you more than 9.5% of your household income.
• The plan meets minimum value, or pays for at least 60% of the cost for covered services.

Your employer's required to let you know whether your plan meets these guidelines. If it doesn't, you can see if buying your own insurance is cheaper.

Individual coverage isn't just for individuals. You can get a plan that covers you and your family. We have medical plans and dental plans, some with vision for adults, for every budget.