Individual Health Insurance
Comprehensive health coverage for individuals. Find affordable plans that cover doctor visits, prescriptions, and hospital care.
What is Individual Health Insurance?
Individual health insurance is coverage you purchase for yourself (and potentially dependents) when you don't have access to employer-sponsored group health insurance. You can buy individual plans through the Health Insurance Marketplace, directly from insurers, or through brokers.
These plans must cover essential health benefits including doctor visits, emergency services, prescriptions, preventive care, hospitalization, and more under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
What Individual Plans Cover
Essential Health Benefits
- • Doctor visits and specialist care
- • Emergency services
- • Hospitalization
- • Prescription drugs
- • Laboratory services
- • Preventive and wellness care
Additional Coverage
- • Mental health services
- • Maternity and newborn care
- • Pediatric services
- • Rehabilitation services
- • Chronic disease management
- • Preventive screenings
Metal Tiers Explained
Bronze Plans (60% coverage)
Lowest premiums, highest out-of-pocket costs. Good for healthy individuals who rarely need care.
Average premium: $350-450/month
Silver Plans (70% coverage)
Moderate premiums and deductibles. Most popular choice. Qualifies for cost-sharing reductions.
Average premium: $450-550/month
Gold Plans (80% coverage)
Higher premiums, lower out-of-pocket costs. Good if you need regular medical care or prescriptions.
Average premium: $550-700/month
Platinum Plans (90% coverage)
Highest premiums, lowest out-of-pocket costs. Best for chronic conditions or frequent medical needs.
Average premium: $700-900/month
Where to Buy Individual Insurance
Health Insurance Marketplace (HealthCare.gov)
Federal and state exchanges where you can compare ACA-compliant plans and apply for subsidies.
Benefits: Tax credits available, guaranteed coverage, easy comparison
Directly from Insurance Companies
Buy plans directly from Blue Cross, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, Cigna, and other insurers.
Benefits: More plan options, direct relationship with insurer
Through Insurance Brokers
Licensed agents can help you compare plans and enroll. Services are usually free.
Benefits: Expert guidance, personalized recommendations, no extra cost
Premium Tax Credits & Subsidies
You may qualify for financial assistance if your household income is between 100-400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Subsidies lower your monthly premium costs.
2024 Income Guidelines (for subsidy eligibility):
- • Individual: $14,580-$58,320/year
- • Family of 2: $19,720-$78,880/year
- • Family of 4: $30,000-$120,000/year
Who Should Buy Individual Insurance?
Self-Employed
Don't have employer coverage
Early Retirees
Under 65, not yet on Medicare
Part-Time Workers
Employer doesn't offer benefits
Between Jobs
Lost employer coverage
Open Enrollment Period
You can only enroll during specific times:
- • Annual Open Enrollment: November 1 - January 15 (for coverage starting January 1)
- • Special Enrollment Period: 60 days after qualifying life events (marriage, birth, job loss)
Average Cost
Average Monthly Premium (Individual)
$450-700/month
Varies by age, location, plan type, and subsidies
What coverage level do you need?
Choose the protection that matches your requirements