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  • October 4, 2017
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Everything You Should Know About 2018 Health Insurance Changes

*Anthem Blue Cross of California is withdrawing from many California’s Regions where it serves approximately 153,000 consumers, while remaining in some regions where it covers more than 108,000 consumers (41 percent of their current enrollment). This means that, if you are currently with Anthem Blue Cross, whether you purchase your individual coverage directly or through Covered California exchange, you may need to find a new plan. Given this, a knowledgeable agent’s help will be a necessity for the upcoming renewal and open enrollment period.

*Covered California is still offering subsidized insurance plans to those who qualify.  You may need to talk to a Covered California certified insurance agent in order to better understand the connection between subsidies (tax credits) and your tax return, navigate 11 carriers and multiple plans offered, and make sure you get all the benefits and financial assistance that you are eligible for.  

*We know you have many questions.  Is my doctor in network with this insurance carrier? How is EPO different from PPO? What is HMO? How do I get a subsidy? Remember, health insurance agents’ services are free.  You pay the same for health insurance whether you purchase it yourself or with a help of a licensed agent.  

*An average 12.5% rate increase is expected in California in 2018.  Some companies may have higher premiums than others.  

We encourage you to let us help you shop, because many can minimize their rate increase next year if they switch to a different plan.

*Unless you have a qualifying life-changing event, your only chance to obtain new individual health insurance coverage or to change your existing coverage is during Open Enrollment.  This is correct for those who get insurance through Covered CA Exchange as well as those who purchase coverage directly from insurance carriers.

Don’t wait, act fast! You don’t want to be stuck with a plan that doesn’t suit you or be uninsured in 2018!

*There is no Open Enrollment period for so-called ancillary benefits (dental, vision, etc.)  These policies can be purchased anytime, year round, and we have a variety of affordable  individual, family, and small group plans to offer.

* We love working with business owners! Open enrollment applies to individual and family plans only! If you are a business owner looking for a great employee benefits package, you can apply for a group policy anytime.Size standards for a small business vary from industry to industry.  However, in general, businesses with 1 to 500 employees fall under the small business category.  Nobody likes the one size fits all approach!!! We enjoy working with each company to design a custom package based on specific insurance needs that may include group health and dental insurance policies, Workers’ Compensation, General Liability, Professional Liability, Commercial Auto, and other types of policies your company may need.

Whether you own a moving company, drive a long haul truck or a limo, fix appliances, or practice law, we are looking forward to discussing your insurance needs with you!

WHETHER YOU NEED HELP SHOPPING FOR A NEW HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN OR LOOKING FOR ASSISTANCE TO RENEW YOUR EXISTING PLAN, FEEL FREE TO CONTACT US!

818-264-1939

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