Individual Health Insurance Under Age 65

What is Individual Health Insurance, and who needs it:

• Individual health insurance covers those who are under the age of 65, not insured under an employer-sponsored group plan and in need of medical, dental and vision coverage.
• Individuals approaching age 26 and dropping off their parents group coverage
• Individuals searching for alternatives to COBRA
• Involuntary loss of group coverage

Why do I need health insurance?

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) was signed into law March of 2010 increasing access to affordable health insurance.  Here are a few things you should know about the ACA:

• Increased access to insurance options including individuals who can stay on their parents’ plan until age 26.
• Protection against pre-existing conditions.
• No cost for preventive screenings.
• Coverage for woman and children without discrimination along with Medicaid expansion for low-income families.
• American Rescue Plan ensures that many people who enroll will qualify to save money.

When can I enroll?

You can enroll in a qualified health plan either during the Annual Open Enrollment Period (OEP) or following a Qualifying Life Event.

Annual Open Enrollment Period (OEP) for individual coverage allows you to enroll in a new plan or switch plans for the following calendar year with no questions asked.  Currently, OEP starts November 1^st and ends January 15^th. 

Qualifying Life events include:

• Loss of health coverage (i.e., turning 26 and losing coverage from your parents’ plan).
• Changes in household (i.e., marriage, divorce, having a baby or death in the family).
• Changes in residence (i.e., moving to a different zip code or county, student moving to/from to attend school).
• Changes in your income, becoming a US Citizen, leaving jail/prison.