If my employer does not offer health insurance can I buy my own policy?

If you lose your job, are self-employed or are a student than you have some options for purchasing health insurance.  In most states if you lose your job you will be able to continue your health insurance policy on your own.  You will be paying higher rates and may not get all of the same options you previously had but it is usually cheaper to do it this way.  If your employer does not offer insurance than you may want to see if your spouse can add you onto his/her policy.

If none of the above mentioned ideas are options for you than you should look into a group health plan.  You may be able to join a group health plan based on your occupation and/or associations.  The AARP has a plan designed for people over 50, and there are many other groups out there.

If you still can’t find insurance than you can look at buying an individual policy.  These are going to be very expensive and your coverages will be limited.  It is very important to carry insurance to protect your family against unexpected illness or injury that could cause financial problems.

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