ACA Health Plans

Through the Marketplace

At Innovative Insurance Solutions, we help you navigate the ACA Marketplace to find the right plan, maximize savings, and make enrollment stress-free. We will walk you through every step of the process.

What is the ACA Marketplace?

The ACA Marketplace, established under the Affordable Care Act, is a platform where individuals and families can shop for and enroll in health insurance plans. These plans are regulated to ensure they meet specific standards.


All Marketplace plans must include essential health benefits, such as:



  • Preventive care (like annual checkups and screenings) at no cost
  • Doctor visits and hospital care
  • Prescription drugs
  • Maternity and newborn care
  • Mental health services

Key Features of ACA Marketplace Plans

ACA plans also offer the following features:


  • Pre-existing Condition Protections: Insurers cannot deny coverage or charge higher premiums based on your health history.

  • Subsidies & Tax Credits: Some individuals and families qualify for financial assistance to lower their premiums and out-of-pocket costs.

Enrolling in ACA Marketplace Plans

Who Can Enroll?

Anyone can enroll in Marketplace plans, but it’s especially beneficial for:



  • Individuals who don’t have employer-sponsored insurance
  • Self-employed workers
  • Part-time employees
  • Individuals whose income qualifies them for Medicaid expansion (in participating states)

Enrollment Tips

Follow these steps to make your process even smoother:


  1. Gather information. Have the following ready:



  1. Social Security numbers for all household members
  2. Employer and income details
  3. Immigration documents (if applicable)

  4. Apply early: Avoid last-minute stress by enrolling well before the deadline

  5. Review details: Double-check your application for accuracy to avoid processing delays and resubmissions

  6. Set up payments: Ensure your payment methods are set up correctly so your coverage begins on time

When Can I Enroll?

There are two main ways to get coverage through the ACA Marketplace:

Open Enrollment


Happens every year from November 1 through January 15, in most states. Check the website for your state’s Marketplace, or we can help confirm dates in your area.


During OEP, you can:


  • Enroll in a new health plan
  • Renew or change your existing plan

Special Enrollment Period (SEP)


If you experience a qualifying life event, you may be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period. Generally this lasts 60 days from the qualifying event, which may include:


  • Losing other health coverage
  • Getting married or divorced
  • Having a baby or adopting a child
  • Moving to a new coverage area


Turning 26?  You get a Special Enrollment Period as you age out of coverage through your parents. LEARN MORE >

How Do I Apply for Health Insurance?

There are two ways you can apply for your individual health insurance plan depending on your estimated household income and family size. Please refer to the Federal Poverty Guidelines to see where your income level falls.

If your household income is the amount shown or below the amount shown for your family size, you would apply On-Exchange. If your income is greater than what is shown on the chart for your family size, you would apply Off-Exchange.


On-Exchange: This is also referred to as the On the Marketplace. When you apply through the Marketplace, you are given a tax credit to subsidize your monthly premiums. The way to obtain coverage through the Marketplace is by applying online through Healthcare.gov or calling the Marketplace. You can also work with an agent who can sit with you and assist you with understanding the plan options on the Marketplace.


Off-Exchange: This is also referred to as Off the Marketplace. This means your household income exceeds the income percentage of the Federal Poverty Level and you do not qualify for a subsidized premium. To apply for coverage off the exchange you would apply directly through the insurance company of your selection. It does help to have an agent or broker to assist you in understanding the different plan options so that you can make an educated decision on which health insurance plan you select.


For more information on individual or family plans, give our agency a call today or complete our short request a quote form below and one of our friendly agents will reach out to you!

ACA Health Insurance

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What’s the difference between Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum plans?

    These “metal tiers” reflect how you and the plan share costs — not the quality of care. Bronze plans have the lowest monthly premiums and highest out-of-pocket costs; Platinum plans are the opposite.

  • Do I have to use HealthCare.gov to enroll?

    No, we can help you shop for plans through the Marketplace or a state exchange, and can walk you through the entire process.

  • What if I miss Open Enrollment?

    You may still qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. Losing coverage, moving, or having a baby are just a few examples of life changes that make you eligible to enroll outside of the annual window. If these don’t apply to you, you will need to wait for the next Open Enrollment period.

  • Can I enroll in an ACA plan if I’m self-employed?

    Yes, ACA plans are a great option for freelancers, consultants, and anyone without employer coverage.

  • Can I get financial help?

    Yes, some people qualify for financial assistance based on their income and household size. We can help you determine if you qualify.