For people paying too much at work
Paying too much for your plan at work?
Employer coverage isn't always the best deal, especially once you add a spouse or kids. I'll compare what you pay now with private and individual options.
Sound familiar?
- Covering yourself is affordable, but adding your family costs hundreds more every month.
- Your payroll deduction keeps going up while your deductible stays high.
- You're healthy and rarely use the plan you're paying for.
You're not required to take your employer's plan
Being offered coverage at work doesn't mean you have to use it. You can decline it and buy your own plan, or keep it for yourself and cover your family a different way. The key is comparing real numbers for your household.
The catch with Marketplace subsidies
If your employer's plan is considered affordable under federal rules, you and your family usually can't get a Marketplace tax credit, even if you turn the employer plan down. Affordability is measured against your household income, and since 2023 family members are judged on the cost of family coverage, not just your own. That's why private plans are often the main alternative worth comparing.
Timing matters
Employer premiums usually come out of your paycheck before taxes, and those elections are generally locked in for the plan year. Most people can only drop employer coverage at their employer's open enrollment or after a qualifying life event. Many employers hold open enrollment in the fall, so now is the time to compare. Private plans can usually start on the first of a month, so we'll line up the dates and avoid a gap.
What I'll compare
- What you pay now per paycheck, for you and for your family
- Private plan prices for your household
- Deductibles, out-of-pocket limits, and networks
- Whether to cover everyone the same way or split coverage
Get your exact quote
Tell me a little about your situation and I'll put your private and Marketplace options side by side. I usually reach out within one business day, and there's never a cost to you.
- Private and Marketplace plans compared side by side
- One licensed advisor, no call center
- No cost and no obligation
Common questions
Can I drop my employer health insurance anytime?
Usually not mid-year. Employer premiums are typically taken pre-tax, so changes are generally limited to your employer's open enrollment or a qualifying life event. Check with your HR or benefits team about your plan's rules.
Can I keep my employer plan and put my family on a different plan?
Yes, that's a common setup. Sometimes the cheapest option is you on the work plan and your spouse and kids on a private plan. I'll price it both ways.
Will I get a Marketplace subsidy if I decline my work plan?
Usually not, if the employer plan counts as affordable under federal rules. The quick quote on my homepage asks about job-based coverage and accounts for this.
What if I have a health condition?
Private plans may not accept everyone, so we'll talk through it honestly. Sometimes your employer plan really is your best option, and I'll tell you that.
What clients say
Dalton was very informative and helpful! He made sure he explained everything we were doing and got my family the best coverage! A truly great person to work with!
Dalton has been a pleasure to work with. He's very knowledgeable, timely, and has went above and beyond to answer any questions we have had!