Frequently Asked Questions
General answers about private and Marketplace health insurance. For guidance specific to your situation, compare options with a licensed insurance agent.
- What's the difference between private and Marketplace health insurance?
- Private insurance is sold outside the ACA Marketplace, while Marketplace plans are ACA-compliant and may be eligible for premium tax credits based on income. Enrollment rules and subsidy eligibility differ between the two.
- Does everyone qualify for private health insurance?
- No. Eligibility, availability, and pricing vary by insurer, plan, and state. A licensed agent can help confirm what's actually available to you.
- Is private insurance always cheaper than Marketplace coverage?
- Not necessarily -- it depends on your income, whether you qualify for a subsidy, and the specific plans being compared. Total cost includes premium, deductible, copays, and coinsurance, not just the sticker price.
- Will requesting a quote guarantee coverage or a specific price?
- No. Submitting a quote request does not guarantee eligibility, approval, coverage, or any particular price. It simply allows a licensed agent to follow up and compare real options with you.
- What's the difference between a deductible, a copay, and coinsurance?
- A deductible is what you pay before certain coverage kicks in. A copay is a fixed fee per service. Coinsurance is a percentage of a service's cost you pay after meeting your deductible. All three affect your total out-of-pocket cost.
- Can I get dental or vision coverage without a full health plan?
- Often yes -- standalone dental and vision plans are commonly sold separately from major medical coverage. Availability and what's covered varies by plan.