Frequently Asked Questions About Health, Medicare, and Other Insurance Options in Arizona

Health Insurance (ACA / Marketplace)

When is Open Enrollment for Marketplace (ACA) health insurance?

Open Enrollment for 2026 Marketplace plans runs from November 1, 2025, through January 15, 2026.
If you enroll by December 15, your coverage typically starts on January 1. After January 15, you’ll need a Special Enrollment Period to make changes.

How much does health insurance cost in Arizona?

Costs depend on your plan type, county, and whether you qualify for subsidies. For a 40-year-old individual in Arizona, here are the typical 2026 health insurance premium ranges:

• Bronze plans (high deductible, lower monthly premium): about $350 to $420 per month before subsidies, or roughly $100 to $250 after premium tax credits.

• Silver plans (moderate premium and cost-sharing): around $470 to $550 per month before subsidies, or typically $200 to $350 with savings applied.

• Gold plans (higher premium, lower out-of-pocket costs): approximately $600 to $700 or more per month unsubsidized, or about $300 to $450+ after subsidies, depending on income and county.

These estimates assume eligibility for premium tax credits (generally for single filers earning around $50,000 annually) and typical ACA pricing across Maricopa County and the Greater Phoenix area.

What types of health plans are available through the Marketplace?

Marketplace (ACA) plans come in four “metal” tiers:

• Bronze – lowest premiums, highest out-of-pocket costs.

• Silver – balanced premiums and cost sharing (best for subsidies).

• Gold – higher premiums but lower out-of-pocket costs.

• Platinum – highest premiums, lowest cost when you need care.

What happens if I miss Open Enrollment?

You can still qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you experience a life event like losing job-based coverage, moving, getting married, or having a baby.

Do I qualify for financial help (subsidies)?

If your income is within federal limits, you may qualify for premium tax credits or cost-sharing reductions that reduce your monthly cost and out-of-pocket expenses. Daisy can help calculate your exact subsidy eligibility.

Medicare Insurance

When is Medicare Annual Enrollment?

Medicare Annual Enrollment runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. This is the time to review your plan and make changes for the following year.

What’s the difference between Medicare Advantage and Supplement plans?

• Medicare Advantage (Part C) replaces Original Medicare and often includes prescription, dental, vision, and hearing benefits.

• Medicare Supplement (Medigap) works with Original Medicare to help cover deductibles and copays.

Can I change my Medicare plan after enrolling?

Yes. The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period runs from January 1 to March 31 each year. You can switch Advantage plans or return to Original Medicare during that time.

Do Medicare plans cover dental and vision?

Some Medicare Advantage plans include dental, vision, and hearing benefits, while others do not. Daisy can compare options to find one that includes the coverage you want.

Dental Insurance

Do I need dental insurance if I already have health coverage?

Yes. Health insurance typically doesn’t cover routine dental care. Dental insurance helps pay for cleanings, x-rays, fillings, crowns, and more, so you can maintain oral health affordably.

How much does dental insurance cost in Arizona?

Most dental plans range from $20 to $60 per month, depending on the level of coverage and whether you choose individual or family plans. Preventive-only plans are typically the most affordable.

Can I get dental coverage through the Marketplace or separately?

You can buy stand-alone dental coverage or choose a Marketplace plan that includes dental benefits. Daisy can help you compare both options to find what fits your needs best.

Vision Insurance

What does vision insurance cover?

Vision plans usually cover eye exams, glasses, contacts, and lenses — sometimes even discounts on LASIK. Regular vision coverage helps detect eye issues early and reduces overall eye care costs.

Can I bundle dental and vision insurance together?

Yes. Many companies offer combined dental and vision packages, making it easier to manage both types of coverage in one plan.

Life Insurance

Why should I have life insurance?

Life insurance provides financial protection for your loved ones if you pass away. It helps cover expenses like debt, income replacement, and final costs, ensuring your family’s stability.

What types of life insurance are available?

Daisy can help you choose between:

• Term life insurance – affordable coverage for a set number of years.

• Whole life insurance – lifelong protection with a cash value component.

How much life insurance coverage do I need?

A common guideline is 10x your annual income, but the right amount depends on your lifestyle, debt, and family size. Daisy can help calculate a personalized recommendation.

Supplemental Insurance

What is supplemental insurance and why might I need it?

Supplemental (or “gap”) insurance provides extra protection beyond your main plan. These include accident, critical illness, or hospital indemnity plans, helping cover expenses your main insurance doesn’t.

Is supplemental insurance expensive?

Most supplemental plans are affordable, often starting around $15–$30 per month, depending on the coverage type and benefit amount.

Who should consider supplemental coverage?

Anyone with a high-deductible plan, or those who want added peace of mind for unexpected medical events, can benefit from supplemental insurance.

Need Help Finding the Right Plan?

If you’re unsure which type of coverage fits your needs or budget, Daisy Nadolski, a licensed HealthMarkets insurance agent, can help. She serves clients across Phoenix, Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Queen Creek, and Scottsdale, offering no-cost consultations and expert guidance on all types of insurance.

📞 Call: (480) 635-6844
📧 Email: daisynadolski@healthmarkets.com
🌐 Website: affordablehealthinsuranceaz.com