How to Find Affordable Individual Insurance Coverage

Finding affordable, and high quality, health insurance plans can be a challenge for an individual who is not offered insurance through their employer. Here is a step by step guide to finding the right plan at the right price.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer
• Some Time

1. 
   Health Insurance Agent

   Find a Master Resource
   
   This could be the Internet, a local agent, or someone you know in the health insurance industry. Gather information on different insurance companies and the plans they offer. Most health insurance company websites will allow you to download brochures, applications, and plan details from their site. It's important to compare plans and pricing before making a decision. A local agent can act as a free resource for you and give valuable insight on to which companies have the best deals. They can also help you answer questions, if you have them.

2. 
   Individual Health Insurance Benefits

   Understand the Benefit Details
   
   Deductibles, out-of-pocket maximum benefits, annual maximum benefits, doctors office visits, prescriptions, accident benefits and all other benefits can work in a completely different way depending on what insurance company and plan you choose. It's important to know how your plan will work, before you sign up. This way, you won't be surprised when your insurance doesn't pay for a certain service. This is another reason to take advantage of a free independent agent in your area. They can easily explain the benefit differences to you and make sure you are happy with the benefits before you apply.

3. 
   Insurance History File

   Review Your Health History Before You Apply
   
   It's important to think through your health history before applying to a company. In many states, insurance companies can deny you, or raise your rate based on your medical history. It's a good idea to get your medical history organized and discuss it with the insurance company you are considering, or a local agent.

4. 
   Individual Health Insurance Application

   Apply for the Plan or Plans You Like Most
   
   It's a good idea to apply for two or more health insurance plans, if you have a medical history that includes anything out of the ordinary. This will help ensure that you have more chances of getting covered, and receiving an offer you are happy with.
   
   You can connect with an agent in your local area by filling out a simple form (see below in the related resource section).

Tips & Warnings

• Understand your benefits before you commit to a plan.
• Use a local independent agent - It's almost always a free resource.
• Check health insurance company's financial ratings
• Check the Better Business Bureau to make sure they check out.

Resources

• Connect with a Local Agent
• Affordable Individual Insurance - FREE Tips & Ideas

[johnseretecdel]

on 11/15/2009 Great tips 5 stars for that information

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http://www.MyOnlineInsurance.info

[xivyisazombiex]

on 11/6/2009 Insurance is important so it should be affordable.

[femwriter]

on 10/17/2009 What a helpful article on how to Find Affordable Individual Insurance Coverage, thanks for sharing.