Inividual Health Plans

At The Johnson Insurance Agency, we help you find the right plan, maximize savings, and make enrollment stress-free. We will walk you through every step of the process.

Understanding Your Health Insurance Options

When it comes to health insurance, it shouldn't feel like you only have one option. Whether you're self-employed, between jobs, retiring before Medicare, or simply shopping for better coverage, there's more than one path to protecting your health and your budget. Some people enroll through the ACA Marketplace; others prefer coverage outside of it. Both can be good choices; the right one depends on your situation, and we're here to walk you through it.

Two people sit on a park bench under a red umbrella in the rain, with autumn trees behind them.

What Is the ACA Marketplace?

The ACA Marketplace, established under the Affordable Care Act, is where individuals and families can shop for and enroll in health insurance plans that meet federal coverage standards. Every Marketplace plan is guaranteed to cover a core set of essential health benefits, and no one can be turned down or charged more for a pre-existing condition. All Marketplace plans include:



  • Preventive care (like annual checkups and screenings) at no cost
  • Doctor visits and hospital care
  • Prescription drugs
  • Maternity and newborn care
  • Mental health services


The Marketplace is also the only place to receive premium tax credits, or subsidies that can lower your monthly premium if you qualify based on income.

Coverage Outside the Marketplace

If you'd rather not enroll through the government Marketplace, you still have options:


ACA-compliant plans, purchased directly

You can get the same kind of comprehensive coverage, with the same essential health benefits and pre-existing condition protections, directly through us, outside the Marketplace. The main trade-off is that plans purchased this way aren't eligible for premium tax credits, so they tend to make the most sense if you wouldn't qualify for a subsidy.


Alternative coverage

Short-term and supplemental plans can be worth a look for some people. These usually cost less, but they also cover less: they may not include all the essential health benefits, and many can decline coverage based on your health history. Availability and rules vary by state, so it's important to know exactly what a plan does and doesn't cover before you enroll.

Enrolling in Health Insurance Plans

Who Can Enroll?


Anyone under the age of 65 can enroll in plans, either direct from the insurance carrier or through the Marketplace. Both kinds of plans are beneficial for:

  • Individuals who don’t have employer-sponsored insurance
  • Self-employed workers
  • Part-time employees
  • Individuals whose income qualifies them for Medicaid expansion (in participating states)


When Can I Enroll?


There are two main ways to start or change coverage:


Open Enrollment


This happens every year from November 1 through December 15, in most states. Check the website for your state’s exchange, or we can help confirm dates in your area.


During open enrollment, you can:

  • Enroll in a new health plan
  • Renew or change your existing plan


Special Enrollment Period (SEP)


If you experience a qualifying life event, you may be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period. Generally this lasts 60 days from the qualifying event, which may include:

  • Losing other health coverage
  • Getting married or divorced
  • Having a baby or adopting a child
  • Moving to a new coverage area


Turning 26?  You get a Special Enrollment Period as you age out of coverage through your parents. LEARN MORE >


Enrollment Tips


Follow these steps to make your process even smoother:

  1. Gather information. Have the following ready:
  2. Social Security numbers for all household members
  3. Employer and income details
  4. Immigration documents (if applicable)
  5. Apply early: Avoid last-minute stress by enrolling well before the deadline
  6. Review details: Double-check your application for accuracy to avoid processing delays and resubmissions
  7. Set up payments: Ensure your payment methods are set up correctly so that your coverage begins on time

Private & ACA Health Insurance

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What’s the difference between Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum plans?

    These “metal tiers” reflect how you and the plan share costs — not the quality of care. Bronze plans have the lowest monthly premiums and highest out-of-pocket costs; Platinum plans are the opposite.

  • Do I have to use HealthCare.gov to enroll?

    No, we can help you shop for plans through the Marketplace or a state exchange, and can walk you through the entire process.

  • What if I miss Open Enrollment?

    You may still qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. Losing coverage, moving, or having a baby are just a few examples of life changes that make you eligible to enroll outside of the annual window. If these don’t apply to you, you will need to wait for the next Open Enrollment period.

  • Can I enroll in an ACA plan if I’m self-employed?

    Yes, ACA plans are a great option for freelancers, consultants, and anyone without employer coverage.

  • Can I get financial help?

    Yes, some people qualify for financial assistance based on their income and household size. We can help you determine if you qualify.