Best Health Insurance Agencies in Cheektowaga

Frequently Asked Questions

• Introduction

  If you're looking for health insurance for yourself or your family, an agent can help you save time, understand your options, and manage your costs. Insurance agents must be licensed in the state where they operate. They can provide information about on- and off-exchange plans to help you weigh all of your options, and they can see if you qualify for tax credits that can lower your monthly premiums. There's no cost to work with an agent, and they can help you save quite a bit by recommending the best plan for your needs. Here's what you should know before you get started.
  

• What are the benefits of the Medicare Premium Savings Program for beneficiaries in Cheektowaga?

  The Medicare Premium Savings Program helps beneficiaries in Cheektowaga reduce the costs of out-of-pocket expenses from their Medicare coverage. It can pay for copays, coinsurance, and QMB Medicare Parts A and B. Additionally, the program can be used to pay for premiums under SLIMB Medicare Part B and QI-1 Medicare Part B. Apply by calling the Medicaid Office of the Erie County Department of Social Services at 716-858-8601.

• Will you face penalties if you do not carry health insurance in Cheektowaga?

  It depends. You may face tax penalties each month if you opt not to have health insurance in Cheektowaga. The penalty amount will depend on factors such as income or household size. However, it has a limit based on the national average cost for any applicable year. Limited-income individuals may apply for an exemption.

• In Cheektowaga, what are the advantages of buying health plans in the New York Health Plan Marketplace?

  There are financial and program benefits you can only obtain from the New York Health Plan Marketplace. Health plan buyers in Cheektowaga can apply for financial assistance to reduce premium costs. Through the marketplace, they can check if they qualify for Medicaid or Child Health Plus. The online marketplace also utilizes current web technologies that enable consumers to compare different plans side by side and easily sign up for a plan within minutes.

• Are there low-cost options for individuals in Cheektowaga who do not qualify for Medicaid?

  Yes, the NY State of Health Essential Plan is a low-cost or free option for individuals in Cheektowaga who are not eligible for Medicaid. The plan has no deductibles and provides comprehensive coverage that includes medications, hospitalization and outpatient care, and dental and vision. In addition, it has coverage for preventive care, such as regular health exams.

• If you are a state public employee in Cheektowaga, what kind of employment-based insurance can you get?

  State public employees in Cheektowaga are enrolled in the employment-based health plan under the New York State Health Insurance Program. It comprises the NYSHIP-approved Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) and the Empire Plan and is administered by the NY Department of Civil Service. Under the Empire Plan, beneficiaries have the option to choose the participating healthcare provider and pay a copayment. They can opt for a non-participating provider but have to pay the higher cost.

• How can you find affordable health insurance? 

  Affordable insurance is available through employers, Medicare, Medicaid, and the federal Health Insurance Marketplace, which offers subsidies in the form of tax credits. You can also purchase coverage through private insurance companies and independent agents. Nearly half of all Americans have employer-sponsored health insurance, and about 10% of the population is uninsured.