Understanding the Marketplace: Health Insurance Options for Hoosiers Under 65

Navigating health insurance can be confusing—especially if you’re under 65 and don’t qualify for Medicare. Whether you're self-employed, between jobs, not offered coverage through work, or just exploring better options, the Health Insurance Marketplace offers a variety of plans to fit your needs and budget.

At Richie Insurance Solutions we help individuals and families across north central Indiana understand how the Marketplace works and how to find the right plan—without stress, high-pressure sales, or confusion.

What Is the Health Insurance Marketplace?

The Health Insurance Marketplace (also called the Exchange) was created under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to make health coverage more accessible and affordable. Plans are offered by private insurance companies but are regulated and standardized to meet certain levels of coverage.

You can shop for Marketplace plans during:

• Open Enrollment (usually November 1 – January 15)

• Or during a Special Enrollment Period triggered by life changes like job loss, marriage, divorce, or having a baby

Who Needs Marketplace Insurance?

You may benefit from a Marketplace plan if:

• You’re self-employed or own a small business

• Your employer doesn’t offer coverage or offers coverage that’s too expensive

• You recently lost health insurance through your job

• You’re between jobs or retired early and not yet eligible for Medicare

• You're a young adult aging off a parent’s plan

We work with individuals and families in Kokomo, Greentown, Tipton, Peru, Logansport, and beyond to find affordable, personalized coverage that meets their healthcare needs.

What Do Marketplace Plans Cover?

All ACA-compliant plans are required to cover 10 Essential Health Benefits, including:

• Doctor visits and preventive care (like annual physicals, cancer screenings, immunizations)

• Emergency services

• Hospitalization

• Prescription drug coverage

• Maternity and newborn care

• Mental health and substance abuse services

• Rehabilitation and therapy services

• Lab tests

• Pediatric care, including dental and vision for children

No one can be denied coverage for pre-existing conditions.

Are Subsidies or Discounts Available?

Yes—most people qualify for financial assistance to help lower monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs.

There are two main types of savings:

1. Premium Tax Credits – Lower your monthly premium based on your household income and size.

2. Cost-Sharing Reductions – Help reduce your deductible, copays, and coinsurance if you qualify.

For example:

A family of four in Howard County with a moderate income could qualify for hundreds of dollars per month in premium savings.

We’ll help you estimate your eligibility and handle the application for you—at no cost.

Plan Levels: Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum

Marketplace plans come in four "metal" levels. These don’t reflect quality—they reflect how you and the plan share costs:

• Bronze – Lower monthly premiums, higher out-of-pocket costs

  • Great for healthy people who want protection for worst-case scenarios.

• Silver – Moderate premiums and costs; only Silver plans qualify for cost-sharing reductions

  • A strong choice for many families and individuals.

• Gold – Higher premiums, lower out-of-pocket costs

  • Good if you expect frequent doctor visits or prescription needs.

• Platinum – Highest premiums, lowest costs when you get care

  • Less common, best for those with major ongoing health needs.

We’ll help you compare plans across multiple carriers to find the right balance for your situation.

Why Work with a Local Independent Agent?

When it comes to choosing health insurance, one-size-fits-all doesn’t cut it. At Richie Insurance Solutions, we’re proud to serve our neighbors across Kokomo and north central Indiana—offering free, no-pressure help to:

• Compare plans and pricing across multiple carriers

• Explain your options in plain English

• Handle the Marketplace application process for you

• Make sure your doctors and prescriptions are covered

• Assist with renewals or Special Enrollment situations

And we never charge a fee for our services.

Let’s Find the Right Plan—Together

If you're under 65 and need health insurance—whether for yourself, your family, or your small business—Richie Insurance Solutions is here to help.

We serve clients across Howard County, Tipton, Grant, Miami, Cass, Hamilton and surrounding counties, and we’re licensed to assist anywhere in the state of Indiana.

Schedule your free consultation today and get the clarity and coverage you deserve.