Health insurance- whether provided by your employer or purchased by you-can be both expensive and complex. To better understand your options and control your health insurance costs, consider these tips and suggestions from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), a voluntary organization of state insurance regulatory officials:
Know Your Options
• Married couples in situations where both spouses are offered health insurance through their jobs should compare the coverage and costs (premiums, co-pays and deductibles) to determine which policy is best for the family.
• Always stay in-network when possible, making sure to get referrals and pre-certifications as required by your plan.
• Keep all receipts for medical services, whether in- or out-of-network. In the event you exceed your deductible, you may qualify to take a tax deduction for out-of-pocket medical bills.
• Consider opening a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), if your employer offers one, which allows you to set aside pretax dollars for out-of-pocket medical expenses.
• If you lose or change jobs, be aware of your rights to...