10. Always look for an insurance broker who has been in business at least ten years. You need to find a broker who is licensed and has the correct certification to sell both on and off the exchanges. DO not go to Covered California, you will only get part of the story.

9. You may have checked to see if your doctors are “preferred providers” of the plan you are thinking about buying but did you check to make sure the hospital in your area is also under contract to take that plan?

8. If you think you have found something very inexpensive in your area (as prices vary between counties in California) you may want to check the ratings of that particular carrier. If the price seems too good to be true it may just be a very poor choice.

7. Check the ratings of the carrier by going to: ambest.com

6. Make sure the insurance company you choose has been in business at least ten years and that they are not based in Texas. The laws governing insurance companies in Texas are extremely loose and that is not good for the consumer.

5. Is this policy good nationwide? Or just in your State? Or only in your county?

4. If costs are a factor make sure you crunch the numbers a very high deductible might just be the way to go. Keep a side fund for medical bills that will come up and ask your physicians for a cash price for an unexpected trip to the Dr.

3. If you use specific drugs make sure they are covered before you go with a particular policy.

2. The affordable care act doesn’t mean that insurance companies can’t raise your rates. They can at any time.

1. Make sure you check all your options. Especially if you want to save money do NOT assume that the plans OFF the exchange are more expensive. Often they are equal in cost and actually have better benefits built in and more doctors will take those plans. That is why it is very important to go with a reputable broker. Might we suggest giving us a call 818.728.6590, BalancedFinancials.com