How to Find Discount Health Insurance for Uninsured Workers

You can find discount health insurance, even if you are uninsured.

Health insurance can protect you from a financial catastrophe, paying claims to a hospital or doctor for your medical bills; however, it is not affordable for many. This is why many states offer subsidies to help pay the premiums or offer free health insurance, if you qualify. However, you will first need to know how to find this discount health insurance and make sure you meet the income requirements for your state. Also, you will need to requalify every year.

Instructions

1. Call your local social services office. They will direct you to the Medicaid office. Medicaid will either provide free or deeply-discounted health insurance based on your income level. Benefits generally depend on family size, income level and assets.

2. Contact the program office in your state that offers discount health insurance. If you do not qualify for Medicaid, you can call your state's financial assistance office that manages the health insurance program. For example, in Washington state, Washington State Health Insurance Plan manages a special health insurance program available for individuals denied individual insurance.

3. Gather all your financial information. Usually you need to present income, assets and other financials to receive benefits. Since many of these programs offer assistance based on need, you will most likely have to disclose your monthly income and expenses.

4. Fill out an application for benefits. Once you do, you will meet with a caseworker who will assess your financial situation and tell you whether you qualify. If you do, you must always report any changes in income, assets or expenses to your caseworker.

References

• http://www.healthinsuranceinfo.net: Health Insurance Laws By State
• "Practicing Financial Planning for Professionals, Practitioner's 10th edition"; Sid Mittra, Anandi P. Sahu, Robert A Crane; 2007