Health Insurance for Individuals and Families

I compare private plans and Marketplace plans side by side, so you can see the real difference in cost and coverage before you choose.

Private and Marketplace, Side by Side

Each works differently. The right one depends on your health, income, and timing.

Private Health Insurance

Priced on your health

How pricing works
Based on your age, where you live, and your answers to health questions.
Approval
Depends on your health history, so not everyone qualifies.
When you can apply
Many plans accept applications any time of year.
Often a fit for
Healthy people who don't qualify for a Marketplace subsidy.

Marketplace Plans (ACA)

Priced on your income

How pricing works
Set by age and location, with tax credits based on household income.
Approval
No health questions. Pre-existing conditions can't raise your price.
When you can apply
During open enrollment each fall, or after a qualifying life event.
Often a fit for
People who qualify for savings or have ongoing health needs.

Private plans are not Marketplace plans and do not qualify for premium tax credits. If a Marketplace plan is the better fit for you, I'll explain why and point you to the right next step.

Coverage for Your Situation

Self-Employed

Without an employer plan, you choose and pay for your own coverage. I'll compare plans that fit your budget and the way you work.

Health insurance premiums are often tax deductible for the self-employed. Ask your tax professional what applies to you.

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Paying Full Price on the Marketplace

If your income is too high for a tax credit, you pay the Marketplace sticker price. Depending on your health, a private plan may cost less for similar care.

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Facing COBRA

COBRA lets you keep your old employer plan, usually for up to 18 months, but you pay the full cost plus a fee.

Losing job-based coverage also opens a 60-day window to pick a new plan, so let's compare before you decide.

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Employer Coverage Too Expensive

If adding your family to a work plan costs too much, they may qualify for Marketplace savings or a private plan of their own. I'll run the numbers both ways.

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Health Insurance for Small Business Owners

When you run your own business, covering yourself and your family is up to you. I'll find a plan that fits your budget and the way you work.

You and Your Family

I compare private and Marketplace plans side by side, priced for your household.

Coverage That's Yours

Your plan isn't tied to the business, so it stays with you if the business changes.

Possible Tax Savings

Premiums may be tax deductible for business owners. Ask your tax professional what applies to you.

What I Compare for You

The lowest premium isn't always the lowest cost.

Monthly Premium

What you pay each month to keep coverage.

Deductible and Out-of-Pocket Max

What you pay before and after the plan pays.

Doctors and Hospitals

Whether the providers you use are in network.

Prescriptions

How the medications you take are covered.

Dental and Vision

Add either one alongside your health plan, so everything is handled in one place.

Dental

Cleanings and checkups, plus help with fillings and bigger dental work.

Vision

Eye exams, plus help paying for glasses or contacts.

Benefits, waiting periods, and costs vary by plan. I'll walk you through the details before you add anything.

Health Insurance Questions

  • What's the difference between a private plan and a Marketplace plan?

    Marketplace plans follow the Affordable Care Act. Anyone eligible can enroll, and tax credits can lower the price based on income. Private plans are sold directly by insurance companies, ask health questions, and don't come with tax credits. For healthy people who pay full price, they can cost less.

  • Can I get a private plan with a pre-existing condition?

    Private plans ask health questions, so some conditions can affect your price or approval. Marketplace plans can't turn you down or charge more because of your health. If that matters for you, we'll look closely at both.

  • When can I sign up?

    Marketplace plans open for enrollment each fall, and a life event like losing other coverage, moving, marriage, or a new baby opens a special window. Many private plans accept applications any time of year.

  • Do you help with Medicare?

    No. I focus on individuals and families under 65. If you're turning 65, I'm happy to point you toward someone who specializes in Medicare.

  • Can I add dental or vision coverage?

    Yes. I can add dental, vision, or both alongside your health plan. Let me know on our call and I'll include them in your options.

Start With an Estimate. Finish With a Real Conversation.

Get an initial look at your options, then talk with Austin about what may make sense for you and your household.

Austin Baker laughing with two clients in a sunlit atrium