Getting Health Insurance Through Individual Plans
Individual health insurance coverage is available for individuals and families who do not qualify for or choose not to purchase insurance through the government or an employer. Some people who might consider purchasing an individual healthcare plan include:
- People who work part-time, work as contractors, or work for a company that does not offer healthcare;
- Self-employed people; or
- People who need to fill a gap in coverage.
In this article:
There are two different ways you can get an individual healthcare plan:
- Buy a plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace (Marketplace).
- Buy a plan directly from a health insurance company, agent or online seller.
What is the Marketplace?
The Marketplace is a platform that helps people compare health insurance plans and costs.
In Georgia, residents can enroll in health coverage through the state Marketplace, Georgia Access.
How can I buy private health insurance?
If you don’t qualify for employer-based health insurance or government-funded health insurance, you can buy your own plan. Here are some options for buying a private plan:
- Directly from a health insurance company. Contact a health insurance company, such as Aetna or Cigna, or visit their website to compare the plans they offer.
- Through an insurance agent or broker. An agent or broker can help you find the best plan for you and your family based on your needs. It is usually a free service to use.
- From an online seller. Online health insurance sellers can help you compare plans and buy from different insurance companies.
