Individual health insurance is medical coverage for you and/or your family obtained directly from an insurance company if/when you are unable to get affordable coverage through an employer-sponsored plan. These plans can be purchased on the Exchange a.k.a. Obamacare (where you may qualify for subsidies), or off the Exchange, which means buying a policy directly through an insurance company (without a subsidy).

WHAT IS INDIVIDUAL AND FAMILY HEALTH INSURANCE?

Unlike traditional insurance through your employer, with Individual insurance, you can shop for a plan that suits your family's own needs, purchase the plan and make monthly premium payments directly with the carrier of your choice.

Any of the individual health plans you choose will cover the same 10 essential health benefits, but the copays, deductibles, provider networks, benefits, and rates will vary.

There are a number of scenarios where someone would purchase an individual policy (for those under age 65) including self-employed individuals, and those who are in-between jobs for more than 3 months, not offered affordable coverage through their employer, or no longer being covered by their parent's health plan.

Health insurance coverage is now required for almost everyone by the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare). You might have to pay a penalty if you go without coverage.

INDIVIDUAL HEALTH INSURANCE THROUGH THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT

The place where Californians can get brand-name health insurance under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. It’s the only place to get federal premium assistance to help you buy private insurance from companies. That means you may qualify for a discount on private insurance, or get health insurance through the state’s Medi-Cal program.

You can still use an agent when you enroll through Covered California and we can help you understand the various plans, benefits, and premiums. All you have to do is create an account at www.CoveredCA.com and click on "Get Help" (upper right); they allow you to search for Certified Insurance Agents and designate your selection to help you pick a plan and enroll.  There is no extra cost for this service.