If you’ve lost your job or have chosen to leave your job, you’ve probably also lost your health insurance. And while it might seem like health insurance will be out of your reach now that you’re no longer working, there are very affordable plans for unemployed people. In fact, these plans can cost as low as $47 per month or less! The best way to find these types of plans is by working with an EZ agent, who can compare plans with great rates and coverage in your area within minutes, for free!
If you lose your job, you qualify for what’s known as a Special Enrollment Period, because losing your job is considered a qualifying life event. This means you won’t have to wait for the annual Open Enrollment Period to purchase a plan. Not only that, but you will have many options available to you, whether you would like a short-term plan with a higher deductible, which is generally for healthier people, or are looking for a more comprehensive plan for you and your family.
Your Options
If you’ve lost your job, you have a variety of options for insurance coverage, including:
ACA Plans– You can head to your state’s Marketplace and look for private health insurance. You will have multiple coverage tiers to choose from, each with a different cost-sharing structure. Because of the wide range of plans available, you should be able to find an affordable plan that meets your coverage needs. In addition, you cannot be denied coverage if you have a pre-existing condition.
Joining a family member’s plan– Another option for you would be to hop onto your spouse’s plan if they are working and have insurance. If you lose your insurance, you are automatically qualified for a 30-day Special Enrollment Period to get on your spouse’s employer-based plan.
Medicaid- States look at your current income when deciding if you qualify for assistance from this program. Eligibility varies by state, but the monthly income limits are generally $1,470 for an individual and $3,000 for a family of four.
COBRA– With this program, you can extend your employer’s coverage for up to 18 months. However, it is important to note that COBRA can be quite expensive because you are required to pay your entire premium.
Short-term health insurance– These plans will provide you with quick coverage, since you can sign up at any time, but the benefits are not as comprehensive as those of traditional health insurance. You will have a lower monthly premium and a higher deductible with these kinds of plans, and there is usually a medical questionnaire to qualify for them.
While the price of employer-based health insurance varies, it’s generally fairly affordable for people with families, because your employer usually chips in and pays some money towards your premiums. But the good news is that you might be able to get even more affordable coverage while you are unemployed through the ACA Marketplace.
You can get coverage regardless of your income, and the amount you’ll pay is based on your expected annual income. That means, if your expected income is $0 right now, you could get a plan for as low as $47 a month. In addition, you might also qualify for premium tax credits, which are subsidies that reduce the monthly cost of your health insurance and also give you cost-sharing reductions.
If you have recently lost your job, EZ will help you find an affordable plan to cover your healthcare needs. We will provide you with a personal agent who will compare all available plans in your area, and find one that fits your needs. To get started, enter your zip code in the bar above, or to speak with an agent, call 888-350-1890. Our promise is that we will help you find a great, affordable plan, so you can remain healthy and safe during these hard times. EZ’s services are free of charge because our focus is on making sure that you feel supported throughout your search for insurance, not on making money off of you.
