How to Get Affordable Health Insurance in Virginia

With the rising cost of health insurance, it can become tempting to gamble with your health. After all, if you have no health problems, you save money that would have otherwise gone to pay monthly premiums. However, if you lose the gamble, you'll find yourself paying a lot more than the monthly premiums. Needless to say, it's best to have insurance and not need it than to need it and not have it. Regardless of your income level, you can secure health insurance coverage that will meet your needs.

Instructions

• 1

  Use an online comparison tool to find the health insurance coverage you need at the lowest possible rates. Once you find a plan that's affordable, you'll generally be able to complete the online application to begin the enrollment process. Examples of comparison tools you can use are eHealthInsurance, Health Insurance and InsureMonkey.

• 2

  Enroll in Virginia's state employee insurance program if you're a state employee. With this program, you can enjoy lower premiums and access benefits like free wellness and preventive care. To get enrollment details, speak with your agency's benefits administrator or contact the Virginia Department of Human Resource Management at 804-225-2131.

• 3

  Submit an application to FAMIS (Family Access to Medical Insurance Security Plan) if you have children. If you're currently pregnant, apply for "FAMIS MOMS." To be eligible for FAMIS, your child must be under 19 years of age, not covered or eligible to be covered by another insurance program, and meet the family income guidelines. The family income guidelines will vary based on the number of family members in the home. A FAMIS application can be submitted online through the FAMIS website or via mail, fax or telephone.

  Phone: [phone]

  Fax: [phone]

  Mailing address: FAMIS, P.O. Box 1820, Richmond, VA 23218-1820

• 4

  Apply for Virginia's Medicaid program by visiting your local Department of Social Services. The Medicaid program insures low-income families, the elderly and disabled individuals. You must meet program eligibility requirements to be approved.