What does it cost to work with you?
Nothing. Insurance brokers are paid a commission by the carrier when you enroll. That commission is built into the plan's price whether you use a broker or not — so going direct doesn't make it cheaper, it just means nobody is helping you.
I'm self-employed. Can I even get coverage?
Yes. Being self-employed doesn't limit your options — it just means you're buying in the individual market instead of through an employer. That's the market I work in every day. Self-employed people can also often deduct their premiums, which is worth raising with your accountant.
I missed Open Enrollment. Am I stuck?
Not necessarily. Qualifying life events — losing coverage, moving to a new state, getting married, having a baby — open a special enrollment period. Certain private plans are also available outside the standard window. Call me and we'll figure out which door is open to you.
My COBRA quote is enormous. What are my alternatives?
COBRA lets you keep your exact plan, but you now pay the full premium your employer had been subsidizing — which is why the number is shocking. Losing employer coverage triggers a special enrollment period, so you're usually able to shop the individual market instead. Sometimes COBRA is still the right call, especially mid-treatment. We'll compare both.
Can I keep my current doctor?
Often, but never assume it. Every plan has its own network, and networks change year to year. Bring me the names of the doctors and hospitals you care about and I'll check them against each plan before you enroll — that's usually the deciding factor.
What's the difference between an ACA plan and a private plan?
ACA (marketplace) plans are guaranteed-issue — they can't turn you down or charge you more for pre-existing conditions, and you may qualify for a subsidy based on income. Private plans sit outside that system: they can be less expensive and more flexible for healthy people, but many involve health questions and may not cover pre-existing conditions the same way. Which is better depends entirely on your health and your income. I'll walk you through both.
Do you handle life insurance too?
Yes. Term life is the most common fit for families with a mortgage or young kids, and it's usually far cheaper than people expect. Ask me when we talk — it's a five-minute conversation.
What do you need from me to get started?
Ages of everyone who needs coverage, your ZIP code, a rough household income, any prescriptions or doctors you want to keep, and what you're paying now. That's enough for me to bring you real numbers.
Are you going to blow up my phone?
No. I reach out once, we talk when it works for you, and if the timing is wrong I make a note and follow up when you asked me to. If you tell me you're all set, that's the end of it.
