Know the rules in your state

Each state has different guidelines about health insurance policies. For example, the way pre-existing conditions are defined varies from state to state. Before you begin looking at policies, you should become familiar with these rules so you'll be able to make educated decisions about your coverage.

I recommend: Reading VitalOne Health Insurance Guide

Know what type of coverage you need

Once you start looking, you'll find a wide array of choices. For example, if you are between jobs, you may only need short term health insurance. Or if you are thinking about starting a family or already have one, then you may need to find a plan that includes maternity coverage and/or that covers more than just an individual.

I recommend: getting familiar with terms such as Short Term Health Insurance

Know what you can afford

Sit down and create a health insurance budget. When you buy individual health insurance, you won't only be paying the premiums, but also co-payments, deductibles, and sometimes even co-insurance so all of these elements need to be considered when deciding what to spend on a policy.

I recommend: contacting VitalOne Licensed Insurance Agents to create a health insurance budget that is right for you

Compare all of your options

To find an affordable individual health insurance plan, you need to know what's available. Just looking at one particular company's offerings won't tell you much. Instead, you need to look at a wide variety of plans so you can compare what is being offered and what it costs.

I recommend: Compare Individual healthcare plans at VitalOne

Check your state's insurance rules

Remember you need to know your rights before signing up for any insurance policy, particularly if you looking for a good deal. Pay attention particularly to rules about pre-existing conditions (so you'll know what will and won't be covered in a plan) and about what has to be covered (often coverage of immunizations and other routine procedures is mandatory).

I recommend: reading about pre-existing conditions and health insurance plans

Find an insurance broker

Comparing health insurance plans can be tricky. That's why it's a good idea to work with an insurance broker who is familiar with the rules and policies available in your state. Because they do not work with any single company, they can give you information about many of the policies available and can even help you make comparisons.

I recommend: Comparing Individual health insurance plans with a trusted source

Do your homework

To make the right choice, you need to understand some basic industry jargon. For example, do you know the difference between a PPO, HMO, and a HSA? They are all options to consider when thinking about your health insurance options. Take a little time to do some research about the options that are out there, so you'll have the knowledge necessary to make a wise choice.

I recommend: getting familiar with terms such as PPO, HMO, and a HSA