Frequently Asked Questions

Working With a Broker

Does it cost anything to work with an insurance broker?

No. My services are free to you. I'm compensated by the insurance carriers, not by you. You pay the same premium whether you use me or go direct — but you get personalized guidance, plan comparisons, and ongoing support at no extra cost. Book a free consultation and see for yourself.

What's the difference between using a broker and going to Healthcare.gov directly?

Healthcare.gov shows you plans but can't advise you. I compare plans across multiple carriers, explain what's actually covered, help you estimate your real out-of-pocket costs, and handle the enrollment process for you. Same plans. Same prices. But with someone in your corner who does this every day.

How is an independent broker different from a captive agent?

A captive agent works for one company — they can only sell that company's products. I'm independent, which means I work for you. I shop across multiple carriers to find the best fit for your situation, your budget, and your doctors — not to hit a sales quota for one company.

What carriers do you work with?

I'm appointed with a wide range of national and regional carriers including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, Humana, UnitedHealthOne, Ambetter, Oscar, and many more. The right carrier depends on your location, your needs, and your budget — that's what the consultation is for.

Health Insurance (Under 65)

What type of health insurance do I need if I'm under 65?

It depends on your situation — whether you're employed, self-employed, between jobs, aging off a parent's plan, or going through a life change. I specialize in the under-65 market and can walk you through your options in about 15 minutes. Book a free consultation and we'll figure it out together.

When can I enroll in health insurance?

Open Enrollment for ACA Marketplace plans typically runs from November through mid-January. Outside of that window, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you've had a qualifying life event — like losing coverage, getting married, having a baby, or moving to a new state. Not sure if you qualify? Reach out and I'll let you know.

I just lost my job. What are my health insurance options?

You typically have 60 days to enroll in a new plan through the Marketplace under a Special Enrollment Period. You may also be eligible for COBRA continuation coverage through your former employer, but COBRA is often significantly more expensive. I can compare your options side by side so you make the right call — but don't wait. The 60-day window is firm. Call me at (702) 379-9084 if it's urgent.

I'm turning 26 and aging off my parents' plan. What do I do?

Aging off a parent's plan qualifies you for a Special Enrollment Period. You have 60 days to get your own coverage. I can help you find a plan that fits your budget and health needs — it's usually faster and easier than people expect.

I'm self-employed. What are my options?

Self-employed individuals can purchase coverage through the ACA Marketplace and may qualify for premium tax credits based on income. You may also be able to deduct your premiums as a business expense. I help a lot of self-employed clients navigate this — it's one of the most common situations I see.

Can I get coverage if I have a pre-existing condition?

Yes. Under the Affordable Care Act, all ACA Marketplace plans are required to cover pre-existing conditions. Insurers cannot deny you coverage or charge higher premiums based on your health history. Some non-ACA plans (like short-term plans) may have exclusions, so it's important to understand the type of plan you're looking at. Contact me and I'll make sure you're in the right plan.

What's the difference between an HMO and a PPO?

• HMO (Health Maintenance Organization): Usually requires referrals to see specialists, and limits you to in-network providers. Lower premiums, less flexibility.
• PPO (Preferred Provider Organization): More flexible — you can see specialists without referrals and go out-of-network (though it costs more). Higher premiums, more freedom.

Which is better depends entirely on how you use healthcare. If you have a preferred doctor, I can check which plans keep them in-network before you commit.

What is the difference between a premium, deductible, and copay?

• Premium — The amount you pay every month to keep your coverage active, whether you use it or not.
• Deductible — The amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance starts covering costs. A $2,000 deductible means you pay the first $2,000.
• Copay — A fixed fee you pay for specific services (like $25 for a doctor visit or $10 for a prescription). Copays often apply even before you meet your deductible.

What is an out-of-pocket maximum?

The most you'll have to pay in a plan year for covered services. Once you hit this number, your insurance covers 100% of covered costs for the rest of the year. This is your financial safety net — and one of the most important numbers to look at when comparing plans.

Group & Employer Insurance

I own a small business. Can I offer health insurance to my employees?

Yes. If you have 1 to 50 employees, I can help you set up a group health plan. Small businesses may also qualify for tax credits through the SHOP marketplace. Group plans often cost less per person than individual plans, and offering benefits helps you attract and keep good employees. Schedule a consultation and I'll walk you through your options.

How does small group insurance work?

You choose a plan (or a set of plans) from a carrier, decide how much the business contributes toward premiums, and employees enroll during a set enrollment period. I handle the carrier selection, plan comparisons, and enrollment process. You focus on running your business.

Is group insurance cheaper than individual plans?

Often, yes. Group plans spread risk across multiple people, which typically lowers the per-person cost. Plus, employer contributions to premiums are tax-deductible for the business and generally tax-free for employees. It's one of the most cost-effective benefits a small business can offer.

Life Insurance

Do I need life insurance?

If anyone depends on your income — a spouse, children, a business partner — life insurance protects them financially if something happens to you. Even if you're single, a small policy can cover final expenses and outstanding debts so your family isn't burdened.

What's the difference between term and permanent life insurance?

• Term life covers you for a specific period (10, 20, or 30 years). It's straightforward and the most affordable option. If you pass away during the term, your beneficiaries receive the death benefit.
• Permanent life (whole life, universal life) covers you for your entire life and builds cash value over time, but it costs more.

Most people start with term. I can help you figure out the right type and amount based on your situation. Reach out anytime.

How much life insurance do I need?

A common starting point is 10-12x your annual income, but the real answer depends on your debts, your family's expenses, how many years of income you'd want to replace, and whether you have other assets. I can help you run the numbers — it takes about 10 minutes.

Dental & Vision Insurance

Do I need separate dental and vision insurance?

Most health insurance plans don't include dental or vision coverage for adults. If you want coverage for routine cleanings, eye exams, glasses, or contacts, you'll need separate plans. I can bundle these with your health coverage so you're not juggling multiple companies.

What does dental insurance typically cover?

Most dental plans cover preventive care (cleanings, X-rays) at 100%, basic procedures (fillings, extractions) at 70-80%, and major work (crowns, bridges) at 50%. Plans usually have an annual maximum benefit, typically $1,000-$2,000 per year.

Is vision insurance worth it?

If you wear glasses or contacts, or get annual eye exams, it almost always saves you money. Most vision plans cover an annual exam, a set allowance for frames or contacts, and discounts on lens upgrades. Even a basic plan pays for itself after one visit.

Supplemental Insurance

What is supplemental insurance?

Supplemental insurance pays you directly when a covered event happens — like an accident, a critical illness diagnosis, or a hospital stay. It's designed to fill the gaps that your primary health insurance doesn't cover, like deductibles, lost income during recovery, or unexpected out-of-pocket costs.

Do I need supplemental insurance if I already have health insurance?

Health insurance covers medical bills, but it doesn't cover everything that comes with a health crisis — like mortgage payments, groceries, or childcare while you're recovering. Supplemental insurance gives you cash when you need it most. It's especially valuable if you have a high-deductible health plan.

General

What areas do you serve?

I'm based in Henderson, Nevada, and licensed in 38 states. Whether you're local or across the country, I can help you find the right coverage.

Can I keep my doctor if I switch plans?

It depends on whether your doctor is in-network with the new plan. Before we make any changes, I check your preferred doctors and medications against the plan's network and formulary so there are no surprises.

What happens if I miss Open Enrollment?

You may still qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you've had a qualifying life event in the past 60 days (job loss, marriage, new baby, relocation, loss of coverage). If you're not sure whether you qualify, reach out — I can check for you in a few minutes.

How do I file a claim?

Most carriers have online portals or mobile apps where you can file claims directly. If you're having trouble or need help navigating the process, reach out and my team will help point you in the right direction.

How do I get started?

Book a free consultation — it takes about 15 minutes. I'll ask a few questions about your situation, compare your options across carriers, and walk you through the best plans for your needs. No pressure, no obligation. Or call me directly at (702) 379-9084.