Resources

Health insurance, without the jargon

Short, plain-English guides to help you understand your options before you enroll.

Savings · 4 min readDo I qualify for a $0 health plan?What decides your price, and how to find out in a few minutes.Read guide → Savings · 5 min readHow ACA tax credits workHow your subsidy is figured and how it lowers your monthly bill.Read guide → Plans · 4 min readBronze, Silver or Gold: which fits you?Compare plan levels by how often you see the doctor.Read guide → Enrollment · 3 min readSpecial Enrollment: life events that let you sign upMissed Open Enrollment? You may still qualify.Read guide → Plans · 4 min readMedicaid or Marketplace: what's the difference?Which program fits your income, and what happens if you're in between.Read guide → Enrollment · 3 min readWhat to do after you enrollPaying your first bill, ID cards, and reporting income changes.Read guide →

Words you'll hear

The six terms that matter most when comparing plans.

Premium: What you pay each month to keep your plan, after any tax credit.
Deductible: What you pay for covered care each year before the plan starts paying its share.
Out-of-pocket maximum: The most you'll pay for covered care in a year. After that, the plan pays 100%.
Copay: A set fee for a service, like $30 for a doctor visit.
Coinsurance: Your share of a bill as a percentage, like 20%, after your deductible.
Network: The doctors, hospitals and pharmacies your plan works with at lower prices.

Frequently asked questions

Does it cost anything to work with Firstshield?

No. Insurance companies pay us when you enroll. Your premium is the same as if you enrolled on your own.

Is a $0 plan real insurance?

Yes. Every ACA plan covers essential benefits like doctor visits, hospital care and prescriptions. $0 means your tax credit covers the full premium. You may still have a deductible and copays.

Are you the government or HealthCare.gov?

No. Firstshield is a licensed, independent insurance agency. We help you apply for Marketplace plans and the tax credits you qualify for.

What information do I need?

Your ZIP code, the birth dates of everyone applying, Social Security numbers (if they have one), and your expected income for next year.

What if my income changes during the year?

Tell us right away. We'll update your application so your tax credit stays accurate and you avoid owing money at tax time.

Can I keep my doctor?

Often, yes. We check whether your doctors and prescriptions are covered before you choose a plan.

Can I enroll after Open Enrollment ends?

Only with a qualifying life event, like losing other coverage, moving, getting married or having a baby.

Do you help after I enroll?

Yes. We help with ID cards, billing questions, income updates and renewing your plan each year.

Still have a question? A licensed agent can answer it.

Call (844) 779-1515 Request a callback