Seven questions to ask any insurance agent

You are allowed to interview the person who wants to sell you a policy. Here is what to ask.

1. Which carriers are you appointed with? An agent appointed with one company can only show you that company. An independent agent can compare. Neither is disqualifying, but you should know which one you are talking to.

2. How are you paid on this? Every agent is paid something. A straight answer here is a good sign; discomfort is worth noticing.

3. Are my doctors in this network? Ask them to check your specific doctors by name, while you are there.

4. Are my prescriptions covered, and at what tier? Same rule. Read them your actual bottles.

5. What is my maximum out-of-pocket in a bad year? Not the premium. The worst case.

6. What changes next year? Plans change networks, formularies, and costs annually. Ask what happened to this plan last year.

7. What happens if I want to change later? Some decisions, particularly around Medigap, are much harder to reverse after your initial enrollment window. Ask directly whether this choice locks anything in.

If you feel rushed at any point, that is information. A deadline used as pressure is a sales tactic, not a fact about your situation.

Questions about your own situation? A Guild agent licensed in your state can walk through it with you at no cost. Talk to an agent