If you need health insurance right away you can check on Healthcare.gov. I have done a fair amount of research and have some knowledge but the Exchange would provide real answers. I am not an expert by any means. And you need to talk to those who know. And Insurance is Insurance. Policies on the Exchange have to meet all the required benefits. So you can pretty much get Apples to Apples Comparisons of Exchange Policies and ACA Compliant Non-Exchange policies offered by a private sector health insurance agent. Keep in mind though that the private health insurance agent has a vested interest in gaining a commission in wanting to sell you something. They could try to influence you that the health insurance is inferior on the Exchange. And give you a line of BS. Insurance is Insurance. ACA Compliant in policies is key. Lots of junk policies available now with changes made in law. Be careful. Private sector has their Agents motivated by Commission.
https://www.healthcare.gov/
Normal Enrollment is not open as the enrollment period is over. However the Website should be able to provide you with answers to your questions. Also numbers to contact. Do not be afraid to Contact them if you have questions. You can see if you qualify for Special Enrollment Period.
In a normal year the enrollment period is like November 15 till December 15 or something like that. Enrollment period is shorter now. It is not advertised as much now either and not sure if there are as many people to help as under previous Administration.
It all depends on your income. You will need to ESTIMATE your income. And be fairly accurate. Healthcare Exchange will then give you quotes and choices of policies in your State and County. Depending on your income situation and you must include ALL income. Must be above Poverty Level to actually buy a policy and get purchase a policy. Above 4 times poverty line and you will not qualify for subsidies. Choices are for Policies in either the Gold, Silver, and Bronze levels. The levels will give different options of health care. coverage. And Premium after Subsidy will be based on Age, Income, and Dependents.
Don’t be afraid to get answers. I would caution you that the subsidies are based on income, age, and dependents. And going above or below those qualifying incomes based on poverty level. will result in a loss of subsidy and you will have to pay it back. Everything gets rectified in the previous year premiums and subsidies when the Income Tax is filed. Seems complicated but really isn’t once you get more answers.
Check out your options and do what is best for you. All the policies sold on Healthcare.gov are actually private health insurance policies. It is not government insurance. And buying a Blue Cross Policy from a Farm Bureau requires you to buy a membership that costs $45 per year I believe.
Good Luck in whatever you decide.