Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about health insurance, enrollment, and using our platform.
Getting Started
How do I get a quote?
Simply click 'Get Quote' and answer a few questions about yourself, your household, and your coverage needs. You'll receive personalized quotes in seconds.
Is there a cost to use this service?
No! Our service is completely free. We're compensated by insurance providers when you enroll, so there's no cost to you. You'll pay the same price as going directly to the insurance company.
How long does it take to get quotes?
Most people complete the quote form in 2-3 minutes and receive instant results. You can then take your time reviewing and comparing plans.
What information do I need to provide?
You'll need basic information including your date of birth, ZIP code, household size, estimated annual income, and whether you want individual or family coverage.
Plans & Coverage
What's the difference between Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum plans?
These metal tiers indicate how much the plan pays versus what you pay. Bronze plans have the lowest premiums but highest out-of-pocket costs (60% coverage). Silver covers 70%, Gold covers 80%, and Platinum covers 90% of costs. Higher tiers mean higher premiums but lower costs when you need care.
What is a deductible?
A deductible is the amount you pay for covered healthcare services before your insurance plan starts to pay. For example, with a $2,000 deductible, you pay the first $2,000 of covered services yourself.
What is a copay?
A copay is a fixed amount you pay for a covered healthcare service, usually when you receive the service. For example, you might pay a $30 copay for a doctor's visit.
What is coinsurance?
Coinsurance is your share of the costs of a covered healthcare service, calculated as a percentage. For example, if your coinsurance is 20%, you pay 20% of the cost and your insurance pays 80%.
What is an out-of-pocket maximum?
This is the most you'll pay for covered services in a year. After you reach this amount, your insurance pays 100% of covered services for the rest of the year.
Can I keep my current doctor?
It depends on the plan's network. Each plan has a network of doctors and hospitals. Check if your doctor is in-network before enrolling. You can usually see out-of-network providers, but it costs more.
Enrollment
When can I enroll in a health insurance plan?
You can enroll during the annual Open Enrollment Period (typically November 1 - January 15) or during a Special Enrollment Period if you have a qualifying life event like marriage, birth of a child, or loss of other coverage.
What is a qualifying life event?
Events that allow you to enroll outside Open Enrollment include: getting married or divorced, having a baby or adopting a child, losing other health coverage, moving to a new state, or changes in household income.
How long does enrollment take?
Once you've chosen a plan, enrollment typically takes 10-15 minutes. You'll need to provide personal information, verify your identity, and set up payment.
When does my coverage start?
If you enroll by the 15th of the month, coverage typically starts the 1st of the following month. If you enroll after the 15th, coverage starts the 1st of the month after next.
Can I change my plan after enrolling?
You can only change plans during Open Enrollment or if you have a qualifying life event. However, you can cancel your plan at any time.
Subsidies & Financial Help
What are premium tax credits?
Premium tax credits are subsidies that lower your monthly insurance payment. They're available if your household income is between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level. The credit is based on your income and family size.
How do I know if I qualify for subsidies?
When you complete your quote, we'll automatically calculate if you qualify for subsidies based on your household income and size. Most people earning between $30,000-$120,000 (depending on family size) qualify for some assistance.
What are cost-sharing reductions?
Cost-sharing reductions lower your out-of-pocket costs (deductibles, copays, coinsurance) if you choose a Silver plan and earn less than 250% of the federal poverty level. These are only available with Silver plans.
Do I have to pay back the subsidy?
If your income increases significantly during the year, you may need to pay back some or all of the premium tax credit when you file taxes. It's important to report income changes promptly.
Can I get help paying for prescriptions?
Yes, all marketplace plans cover prescription drugs. The amount you pay depends on the plan's formulary (list of covered drugs) and which tier your medication is in.
Using Your Insurance
How do I use my insurance card?
Present your insurance card when you visit a doctor or pharmacy. The provider will verify your coverage and bill your insurance company. You'll pay any required copay, coinsurance, or deductible amount.
What services are covered?
All marketplace plans cover essential health benefits including doctor visits, emergency services, hospitalization, prescription drugs, preventive care, mental health services, and more.
Are preventive services free?
Yes! All marketplace plans cover preventive services like annual checkups, vaccinations, and screenings at no cost to you, even before you meet your deductible.
What if I need to see a specialist?
Some plans require a referral from your primary care doctor to see a specialist. Check your plan details. Specialist visits typically have higher copays than primary care visits.
What happens if I go to the emergency room?
Emergency services are covered even if you go to an out-of-network hospital. You'll pay your plan's emergency room copay (typically $250-$500) plus any deductible or coinsurance.
Billing & Payments
How do I pay my premium?
You can pay online, by phone, by mail, or set up automatic payments. Your first payment is typically due before your coverage starts.
What happens if I miss a payment?
You typically have a grace period (usually 30-90 days depending on subsidies) to make your payment. If you don't pay within the grace period, your coverage will be terminated.
Can I get a refund if I cancel?
If you cancel mid-month, you typically won't get a refund for that month's premium. However, you won't be charged for future months after cancellation.
Why did I receive a bill from my doctor?
You may receive a bill for services not covered by your plan, amounts you owe toward your deductible, or your copay/coinsurance. Always review bills carefully and contact your insurance if you have questions.
Technical & Account
How do I create an account?
You'll create an account during the enrollment process. You'll need an email address and will create a password. This account lets you manage your coverage, view documents, and make changes.
I forgot my password. What do I do?
Click 'Forgot Password' on the login page. We'll send you a link to reset your password via email.
How do I update my personal information?
Log into your account and go to 'Profile' or 'Account Settings' to update your address, phone number, email, or other personal information.
Is my information secure?
Yes! We use bank-level encryption to protect your personal and financial information. We never sell your data to third parties.
Can I access my account on mobile?
Yes! Our website is fully responsive and works on all devices. You can manage your coverage from your phone, tablet, or computer.