5 Last-Minute Tips for Individual and Family Health Insurance Shoppers

The annual open enrollment period for individual and family health insurance coverage under the Affordable Care Act is set to end January 15, 2023 in most states. Here are our last-minute tips for people who put off reviewing their options until the last minute:

1. Take the opportunity to review coverage options. Unless you experience a qualifying event later in the year, this may be your last chance to enroll in a new health plan for 2023. Even if you’re happy with your current plan, it’s smart to compare it with new options available today.
    
2. Know if you qualify for subsidies. Many people who buy health insurance on their own qualify for federal subsidies that lower their monthly premiums. If you earn less than 400% of the federal poverty level or if coverage in your area costs more than 8.5% of your income, you may qualify for subsidy help.
    
3. Keep your preferred doctors. If you have a favorite doctor, make sure that he or she is a network provider for any new 2023 plan you’re considering. Some marketplaces (like eHealth) can help you shop for plans based on preferred providers; you’ll also want to call your doctor confirm network status.
    
4. Make sure your prescriptions are covered. While all ACA plans cover prescription drugs, they differ in the specific drugs that are covered and the price you’ll pay for them. At private online marketplaces like eHealth, you can sort your plan options according to those that will cover your personal prescriptions at the lowest cost.
    
5. Get personal help and advice when you need it. If you need help understanding how coverage under a new plan would work, or if you need personal advice when choosing a plan, a licensed health insurance agent can help. Best of all, it doesn’t cost extra to work with an agent.