Individual Health Insurance Made Simple
If you are self employed, between jobs, shopping outside employer coverage, or trying to lower monthly costs, this page breaks down the most common options in plain English.
Use the jump links below to go straight to the plan type you want, then compare your options with the charts. If you want help choosing, send a request and Jake will follow up with guidance that fits your situation.
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Share a few details and I will follow up with options that fit your needs.
Types of Health Insurance
Click any card to expand a quick explanation. The jump links above land on the matching card.
Quick note: Jake’s primary focus is Medicare. If you are turning 65, helping a parent, or comparing Medicare Advantage vs Supplement, use the Medicare page and request a call back.
Go to Medicare optionsCoverage you buy on the exchange, often with subsidies if you qualify.
Federal coverage for most people 65+ and some under 65 with disabilities.
State run coverage for people who qualify based on income and other factors.
Some people qualify for both. Special plans may coordinate benefits.
Coverage offered through your job. Costs and networks depend on your employer.
Network rules and cost structures that affect where you can go for care.
Dental coverage varies widely, especially networks and reimbursements.
Keep your employer plan temporarily after leaving a job, usually at a higher cost.
Temporary coverage for gaps. Benefits may be limited and exclusions may apply.
Plans that pay a set dollar amount for specific services, regardless of provider cost.
Quick Comparisons
Hover any row to compare faster. These charts are a quick snapshot, not legal or medical advice.
ACA vs Short-Term Insurance
| Feature | ACA Marketplace | Short-Term |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-existing conditions | Covered | Often not covered |
| Essential health benefits | Included | May be limited |
| Financial help (subsidies) | Available if you qualify | Not available |
| Enrollment timing | Open Enrollment and special enrollments | Any time (rules vary) |
| Best for | Comprehensive, longer-term coverage | Temporary gaps |
Medicare vs Medicaid
| Feature | Medicare | Medicaid |
|---|---|---|
| Who it serves | Mostly 65+ and certain disabilities | Income-based eligibility (varies by state) |
| Administration | Federal program | State and federal partnership |
| Drug coverage | Part D or Medicare Advantage | Varies by state |
| Dual eligibility | Some people qualify for both | Some people qualify for both |
Not sure where to start? Tell Jake what you have now and what you want to improve, and he will help you narrow down options without the guesswork.
Let’s talk
Expert
Trusted insurance guidance you can rely on
With 18 years of experience, Jake provides straightforward answers so you can make confident choices.
- Independent guidance with no pressure
- Clear comparisons and simple explanations
- Help choosing coverage that fits your doctors, prescriptions, and budget
FAQs about Individual Health Insurance
Not sure where to start?
I’ll meet you where you are — we’ll review your doctors, prescriptions, and budget together. Then I’ll help you choose a plan that fits without the guesswork. No cost to you for consultations. Plan availability and rules vary by state. This page is educational — it isn’t legal, tax, or medical advice.