How to Lower Texas Health Insurance Premiums

According to the Travis County Texas Health and Human Services, more than 1/4 of all Texas residents had no health insurance in 2007. For many of these people, their employers do not offer health insurance. For others, they simply cannot afford to insure themselves, and even the premiums for employer-sponsored plans are too high. Learn ways to find insurance you can afford, and safeguard your family.

Instructions

1. Look into private healthcare plans for your family. Compare the premiums to your employer-sponsored plan. You may be surprised to learn that you can get a private plan at a lower rate. This is especially true if your family is young and healthy.

2. Consider seeking employment elsewhere. It may sound drastic, but your family's health is important. Research companies known for affordable employee benefits and see if they have any openings that suit you.

3. Stay healthy. If you are obese, start by losing just 10 percent of your current weight. Stop smoking. Control your diabetes, cholesterol or other medical issues. Many insurance companies offer lower rates to people who are less of a risk.

4. Use your employee-sponsored flexible spending account, if applicable. These plans will allow you to put money aside from your check pre-tax so that you can use it on co-pays, medications and other health care needs.

5. Shop around. Do not simply assume that you will not be able to get a better rate. Even if you have preexisting conditions or past health problems, there might be a more affordable plan available.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't forget to check out insurance offered by your spouse's employer.

• Never avoid seeking medical attention because you don't have insurance. You can't put a dollar amount on your health.

Resources

• Shop for Texas Health Insurance