Individual & Family Health Insurance
Individual & Family Health Insurance: Compare ACA and Private Plans
Health insurance that fits your life — not the other way around.
Finding the right health insurance for yourself or your family doesn't have to be overwhelming. I help individuals and families in Colorado and 31 other states compare ACA marketplace plans and private plans side by side, check their doctors and prescriptions, and apply for any financial help they qualify for — all online, and at no cost to you.
Who This Is For
Individuals and families under 65 who need health coverage. Whether you’re between jobs, recently self-employed, starting a family, managing a health condition, or simply tired of your current plan — there is a solution that fits your life.
ACA Marketplace Plans or Private Plans?
ACA plans accept everyone, with no health questions, and can't turn you down or charge more because of a pre-existing condition. They cover a standard set of essential benefits, and depending on your income, you may qualify for tax credits that lower your premium.
Private plans are offered outside the marketplace and ask health questions, so eligibility depends on your answers. For healthy people who don't qualify for much financial help, they may cost less, and many are available year-round. I compare both for you — and if a private plan isn't the right fit, an ACA plan is always an option.
How Premium Tax Credits Work
Premium tax credits lower your monthly premium for an ACA plan, and they're only available when you enroll through HealthCare.gov or your state's marketplace. The amount depends on your household size and your estimated income for the year. Since the enhanced federal credits expired after 2025, households earning more than 400% of the federal poverty level generally don't qualify, and many others receive less help than before. If your income is up to 250% of the poverty level, a Silver plan may also lower your deductible and copays. I'll calculate what you qualify for before you choose a plan.
Bronze, Silver, or Gold?
ACA plans come in metal tiers that describe how you and the plan split costs — not the quality of care. Bronze plans have the lowest premiums and the highest out-of-pocket costs, a good fit if you're healthy and mainly want protection from big bills. Silver plans are in the middle, and if your income qualifies for cost-sharing reductions, they come with lower deductibles and copays. Gold plans cost more each month but less when you use care, which often makes sense if you see doctors regularly or take ongoing medications.
Coverage for Your Whole Family
Children can stay on a parent's plan until age 26. Depending on your income, your kids may qualify for Medicaid or your state's Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) even if you don't. And if your family is offered coverage through a job but the family premium isn't affordable, your spouse and children may qualify for marketplace tax credits on their own plan. I'll look at the options for each person in your household so the family as a whole pays less.
When Can You Enroll?
ACA plans can be bought during Open Enrollment — November 1, 2026, through January 15, 2027, in most states — or within a Special Enrollment Period after a qualifying life event, such as losing other coverage, moving, getting married, or having a baby. Many private plans can be started any time of year, depending on eligibility. Medicaid and CHIP accept applications year-round.
What I Help You With
Explaining every option available to you in plain language — no jargon, no confusion
Shopping both marketplace and private plans available in your state
Checking whether your current doctors are in network before you enroll
Getting you enrolled from start to finish
Supporting you long after your plan is in place
Plan Types Available
Plans come in different network types. HMOs usually require you to choose a primary care doctor and get referrals for specialists, and only cover in-network care except emergencies. EPOs also limit you to their network but often don't require referrals. PPOs give you more flexibility to see specialists without a referral and may cover some out-of-network care, usually at a higher price. The right choice depends on your doctors, how often you need care, and your budget.
What Affects Your Quote
Several things go into your price: your age, your ZIP code, tobacco use, the plan and network you choose, and how many people are covered. For ACA plans, your household income determines whether you qualify for tax credits that lower your premium. For private plans, your answers to health questions also matter. Every situation is different, which is why a free review is the best place to start.
Always Free to You
Everything I do is completely free. No hidden fees, no surprises. I'm paid by the insurance carriers, so your price is the same whether you enroll on your own or with my help.
Individual & Family Health Insurance FAQ
Can I be turned down for health insurance?
Not for an ACA plan — they can't deny you or charge more because of your health. Private plans ask health questions, so eligibility depends on your answers.
How much does individual health insurance cost?
It depends on your age, ZIP code, the plan you choose, and — for ACA plans — the tax credits your income qualifies you for. Many people pay far less than the full price. I'll show you real prices for your household during a free review.
Can my children stay on my plan until 26?
Yes. Children can stay on a parent's health plan until age 26, whether or not they're married, in school, or financially independent.
Can I enroll outside Open Enrollment?
Yes, if you have a qualifying life event, which opens a Special Enrollment Period for ACA plans. Many private plans are also available year-round, depending on eligibility.
Do you only help people in Colorado?
No. I'm licensed in 32 states and help clients online by phone or video.
Does your help cost anything?
No. I'm paid by the insurance carriers, so your price is the same whether you enroll on your own or with me.
Last reviewed October 2026 by Heath Heimlich, licensed health insurance advisor (NPN 8799018). Sources: HealthCare.gov; CMS.