Is Individual Health Insurance Right for Me?
Health insurance you buy on your own—not through an employer or association—is called individual coverage. It could be right for you if you are:
If you don't have a plan through an employer, individual coverage is not only right, it's required for almost everyone by the Affordable Care Act. You might have to pay a penalty if you go without coverage.
Think you can't afford health insurance on your own? When you're shopping for plans, you'll be able to see if you qualify for lower costs. Many people do.
Depending on your income and age, you may also be eligible for:
If the coverage your employer offers doesn't meet certain federal guidelines, you may be eligible to purchase individual insurance instead.
Your employer's required to let you know whether your plan meets these guidelines. If it doesn't, you can see if buying your own insurance is cheaper.
Individual coverage isn't just for individuals. You can get a plan that covers you and your family. We have medical plans and dental plans, some with vision for adults, for every budget.
It's likely you're eligible for Medicare. That's another kind of individual health insurance. Unlike plans you have when you're under age 65, Medicare plans only cover one person.
You can learn more about signing up for Medicare and shop for plans on our Medicare site.