Can I find a plan through Cigna or other private insurance instead of the exchange? (coverage, claim)

[Surfertx]

I currently have individual health plans for myself and wife. I'm on TX Blue Shield and she's on Cigna. I went on Healthcare.gov and really hate the interface and plan options that are available through my search.

I am obligated to use the Exchange to sign up for 2017 health coverage?

[Rabrrita]

No. you can go it alone and do it yourself or call a broker to assist you.

[Ariadne22]

Originally Posted by surferdude949

I currently have individual health plans for myself and wife. I'm on TX Blue Shield and she's on Cigna. I went on Healthcare.gov and really hate the interface and plan options that are available through my search.

I am obligated to use the Exchange to sign up for 2017 health coverage?

No, you don't have the use the exchange provided you don't want a subsidy. Contact the insurers directly or see a local insurance agent.

[Surfertx]

Ok thank you. That site just really sucks..

[dkf747]

Originally Posted by surferdude949

Ok thank you. That site just really sucks..

That's an understatement.

[rothbear]

Just make the note that you will NOT get any subsidies by going direct. If you wouldn't qualify for them anyways then definitely go the direct route. Lot less hassle.

[Qwerty]

Originally Posted by rothbear

Just make the note that you will NOT get any subsidies by going direct. If you wouldn't qualify for them anyways then definitely go the direct route. Lot less hassle.

You will not get upfront subsidies, but you can still claim the premium credit on your taxes if you don't take the upfront subsidy.

https://www.healthcare.gov/glossary/premium-tax-credit/

[ctr88]

I searched ehealthinsurance.com and the cheapest plan that came up for me 40's, single, healthy, don't smoke is $290/mo with a $7k deductible. This is a plan off my states exchange. Are there other options for me that are not part of ACA or part of the exchange? How do I find these?