Health Insurance FAQ — Inheritance Insurance Advisory

Question 1

How does working with an independent insurance advisor work?

Accepted Answer

We act as your personal guide through the health insurance market. Instead of going directly to one carrier, you work with us and we shop dozens of plans on your behalf — at no cost to you. We explain your options in plain language, help you enroll, and stay available for questions after coverage begins.

Question 2

How much does your advisory service cost?

Accepted Answer

Nothing. Our services are completely free to you. We're compensated by the insurance carriers when you enroll in a plan — this is standard practice in the industry and does not affect your premium. You pay the same price whether you go through us or directly to the carrier.

Question 3

What states do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We are licensed to advise clients in all 50 states. Whether you're in Florida, California, Texas, or anywhere in between, we can help you find and enroll in the right health plan.

Question 4

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

Simply fill out our contact form or give us a call. A licensed advisor will reach out within one business day to schedule a free consultation. We'll ask a few questions about your situation and walk you through your options — no pressure, no obligation.

Question 5

What is the difference between an HMO and a PPO?

Accepted Answer

An HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) requires you to choose a primary care physician and get referrals to see specialists. It typically has lower premiums but less flexibility. A PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) lets you see any doctor without a referral and offers a broader network, usually at a higher premium. We'll help you decide which structure fits your healthcare habits and budget.

Question 6

What is a deductible, and how does it affect my coverage?

Accepted Answer

A deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance starts covering costs. For example, if your deductible is $2,000, you pay the first $2,000 of covered medical expenses each year. After that, your plan shares costs with you. Plans with lower premiums often have higher deductibles — we help you find the right balance for your situation.

Question 7

Can I keep my current doctor?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the plan's network. When we compare plans for you, we always check whether your preferred doctors and hospitals are in-network. Staying in-network keeps your costs lower, and we make sure you don't accidentally lose access to providers you rely on.

Question 8

When can I enroll in a health plan?

Accepted Answer

The main enrollment window is the Open Enrollment Period, which typically runs from November 1 through January 15 for ACA marketplace plans. Outside of that, you can enroll if you experience a qualifying life event — such as losing job-based coverage, getting married, having a baby, or moving to a new state. Contact us and we'll confirm whether you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

Question 9

What is the ACA marketplace?

Accepted Answer

The ACA (Affordable Care Act) marketplace is a government-run exchange where individuals and families can shop for health insurance plans. Plans are organized into metal tiers — Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum — based on how costs are split between you and the insurer. Depending on your income, you may qualify for premium tax credits that significantly reduce your monthly cost.

Question 10

Do I qualify for a subsidy on the ACA marketplace?

Accepted Answer

You may qualify for a premium tax credit if your household income falls between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level — and in some cases even higher. The credit is applied directly to your monthly premium, lowering your out-of-pocket cost. We run a subsidy analysis for every client to make sure you're capturing every dollar you're entitled to.

Question 11

What is a Special Enrollment Period?

Accepted Answer

A Special Enrollment Period (SEP) allows you to enroll in or change a health plan outside of the standard Open Enrollment window if you experience a qualifying life event. Common triggers include losing job-based coverage, getting married or divorced, having a baby, moving to a new state, or gaining citizenship. SEPs are typically 60 days from the qualifying event. We help you document and submit your SEP application correctly.

Question 12

What is private health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Private health insurance refers to plans purchased directly from insurance carriers outside of the ACA marketplace. These plans often offer broader provider networks, more flexible benefit structures, and coverage options that aren't available through the government exchange. They can be a strong fit for individuals who don't qualify for ACA subsidies or who want more customized coverage.

Question 13

Who is private health insurance best suited for?

Accepted Answer

Private plans tend to work well for self-employed individuals, freelancers, early retirees, and anyone who earns too much to qualify for ACA subsidies but still wants comprehensive coverage. They're also a good option for people who want access to a wider network of specialists or who need coverage that bridges a gap between jobs or life transitions.

Question 14

How does private insurance compare to ACA marketplace plans?

Accepted Answer

ACA marketplace plans come with federal protections — like guaranteed issue and coverage for pre-existing conditions — and may include premium subsidies based on income. Private plans outside the marketplace may have different underwriting rules and benefit structures, but can offer more flexibility and carrier options. We compare both side by side so you can make an informed decision.

Question 15

How many employees do I need to offer group health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Most group health plans require at least two enrolled employees, though some carriers allow single-employee groups in certain states. There is no federal requirement to offer health insurance unless you have 50 or more full-time equivalent employees (the ACA employer mandate). We work with businesses of all sizes to find affordable group coverage options.

Question 16

What is a level-funded plan?

Accepted Answer

A level-funded plan is a hybrid between fully insured and self-funded coverage. You pay a fixed monthly amount (like a traditional plan), but if your claims come in lower than expected, you may receive a refund at year end. It's a popular option for small to mid-size businesses looking for more cost control and transparency than a standard group plan.

Question 17

Can employees choose their own plans?

Accepted Answer

Yes — through a defined contribution or ICHRA (Individual Coverage HRA) arrangement, employers can give employees a set monthly allowance to purchase their own individual health plans. This gives employees more choice and can simplify administration for the employer. We can walk you through whether this model makes sense for your business.

Common Health Insurance Questions

Getting Started

Individual & Family Plans

ACA Marketplace

Private Health Insurance

Group & Employer Benefits

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