As of March 31, 2022, Oklahoma is seeing an unemployment rate of 2.70%. The state although forever resilient has taken a hard hit from the COVID-19 recession. Thousands have lost their jobs and are no longer covered under their employer’s health insurance programs. Facing the greatest adversity, the world has seen in the past few decades without the security of affordable health insurance at one’s side is a fate unfathomably tragic.
If you are currently unemployed and looking for health insurance, you are in the right place. We can teach you what to do. But first, let us discuss what you absolutely should not do.
Mistakes That An Unemployed Individual Should Never Make
Understand That COBRA Albeit Simple, Is Expensive
Many people when faced with unemployment will turn to COBRA for their health insurance. COBRA allows people to temporarily continue their existing health plan but at their own expense. This works well for some but a majority of the working class demographic find the premiums exorbitantly expensive. The federal law states that following the termination of employment an individual has 60 days to enroll for COBRA. One should put this time to good use and look for more affordable options.
Don’t Forget to Look into ACA Coverage Options
For people who have been under employer-sponsored coverage for a while, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) might be unknown territory. Even then, the research is not hard. You can find a lot of material on the internet about ACA or the government-supported ACA marketplace. The ACA plan is only open for enrollment during the fall each year, but special provisions are available for people who have suddenly lost their employer coverage. This special window is only applicable for up to 60 days.
Never Overlook Federal Subsidies
If your annual income falls within 400% of the federal poverty level you are eligible to apply for subsidies. Subsidies can save you thousands of dollars. Some federal subsidies can even be used to buy an ACA plan.
Lowest Premium Plans May Come with Higher Deductibles
Sudden loss of income will have people money-conscious and look for affordable health insurance plans with the lowest premiums. Do understand that low premium plans are often accompanied by higher deductibles.
Especially for individuals with some sort of chronic illness who require year-round medical support, a higher premium with more affordable deductibles is the more economic option. There are online tools that can help you pull up a comparison of plans and choose the more affordable option.
Catastrophic Plans Are Not Eligible for Federal Subsidies
The ACA offers catastrophic coverage for people under the age of 30. Many financially struggling young people are attracted by the low premiums. However, it is rarely worth it because the out-of-pocket costs are too high. Even worse is the fact that you are no longer eligible for federal subsidies if you purchase a catastrophic plan.
When you are out of work and barely able to make ends meet, health insurance premiums may seem like an exemptible cost. You may be tempted to go uninsured for a while, but we strongly advise against it. Illness and accidents happen without warning and that can push you from broke to bankrupt.
We at Oklahoma Health Options can find the perfect plan for you. Our experienced crew can help you with any assistance you need. You can learn more about affordable health insurance plans and our services on our website.
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