What Are The Downsides Of Buying Health Insurance Online Instead Of Through A Broker?
Based on your experience, what are the advantages/disadvantages of buying a health insurance plan online vs. offline? Does anyone have any recommendations on good sites to buy from and which sites I should avoid?
Never buy on-line. See an insurance broker who handles mutiple companies and plans. It doesn’t cost anything to have him/her give you some options.
There really is no downside. If you go through a broker, that person becomes your agent. Much like your car insurance agent. They can help you with any issues you might have or answer any questions you might have on your policy. The premium is also the same.
Buying to the company directly is fine also, Its really a personal preference.
When you are buying online you ARE buying through a broker unless you’re going direct to the carrier. Just make sure you’re dealing with a reputable broker and check the ‘About Us’ section of their site to make sure they have a physical address listed and that you’re not dealing with a lead farm that wants to sell your private information.
That being said, deal with a small broker and not some huge company where you’re not dealing with the owner of the company that has 10-20 years of experience.
Going through a broker is better than direct because going direct doesn’t give you any savings AND they don’t know about the competition. Also, generally speaking a broker has more pull at the insurance company than the internal rep.
This site can help you to compare many health insurance companies at your state
http://top-usa-health-insurance-comparator.blogspot.com/
Hope this help,
As far as price and selection go, probably not much. Another common question is “what’s the difference between using a broker and buying direct from the insurance company and, again, not much (that is, the price will be the same no matter where you buy it). The advantage of using a broker – online or in person – is that by using a broker you’ll (1) probably have someone who has multiples plans & companies to show you and (2) who’ll have your best interests at heart, not the insurance company (because he has to keep you “happy” to continue earning your business & his commission).
Back to your original question: online or “direct?” Really, personal preference. Some folks are more comfortable sitting down & talking with someone; others would prefer to deal via email & the phone.
Best “take-away tip:” deal with someone who’s a member of the NAHU, which is the profesional association of insurance brokers who specialize in health insurance (individual & company plans).
Hope this helps a bit!