I have received an offer letter for a new job that I am very excited about.

16 Comments

1. Erin VegaNovember 12,2024 at 7:57PM UTC

   Does your letter state you need to enroll in the Marketplace ?

2. AnonymousNovember 12,2024 at 8:19PM UTC

   That's exciting! Congrats on the new offer!

   Maybe they offer it but do not offer co-payments but instead you must come out of pocket then send in paperwork for reimbursement. I would ask you benefits administrator in the HR department.

3. AnonymousNovember 12,2024 at 9:00PM UTC

   healthcare.gov would be the first place to start looking.

4. AnonymousNovember 12,2024 at 10:14PM UTC

   ask them

5. Amanda M. WestbrooksNovember 13,2024 at 1:41PM UTC

   You should ask for the handbook, as well as the HR rep you’re negotiating with. My husband’s company literally reimburses our health insurance copay costs, and it’s an amazing benefit. Don’t jump to conclusions - ask!

6. CJB62November 13,2024 at 1:47PM UTC

   That is likely what it means but I would get clarification from the person handling HR.

   Each state currently has a health exchange where you can research and purchase plans. Healthcare.gov would be a starting point and there are brokers that can help.

7. AnonymousNovember 13,2024 at 7:37PM UTC

   Yes, this probably means they have no group insurance. I also agree that this is a question you need to ask HR about. There are probably limits/caps on how much they will reimburse, so be careful. With the flux in how insurance companies work and change so often, this might be a deal breaker for me, but if you can afford it and are excited about the job, go ahead. Sometimes, especially if you or someone in your family is chronically ill (like mine), the private/marketplace options are very pricey.

8. misskelleypNovember 13,2024 at 9:27PM UTC

   It's possible that that is what that means. They may have a program in place to help you find appropriate insurance, but if not there are lots of brokers who can help you find a good individual plan - at no cost to you. Fear not!

9. misskelleypNovember 13,2024 at 9:28PM UTC

   Let me add that this may be an advantage for you, as you can then pick the right plan for your family, where your providers will for sure be in-network, etc. Nothing to be afraid of!

10. AnonymousNovember 14,2024 at 5:51PM UTC

    Idk. Choosing health care coverage is like gambling. How likely am I to need expensive care and for how long? Not to mention, what long term medication will I be prescribed this year, at what perpetual cost and with what side effects? And would a lifestyle change solve the root issue.

    US health care is profit-based and far more expensive than almost anywhere else globally..

    There is nothing easy about choosing, unless you have a crystal ball.

11. misskelleypNovember 15,2024 at 4:50PM UTC

    Usually, if this IS an ICHRA, there is a broker to help you choose the right plan for you, based on your needs and medications.

12. AnonymousNovember 14,2024 at 4:07PM UTC

    Probably, but why not ask your new prospective employer? vs asking here...then you can start off on the right foot. Ask these questions.

    Do I need to secure my own health insurance? What is the limit to what the company will cover? Do you cover medical, dental and vision? Is there a cap? How will I get reimbursed? Will it be added to my paycheck?

    Then you will know.

13. AnonymousNovember 14,2024 at 5:46PM UTC

    If OP didn’t ask on FGB first, she would have missed your advice/input.

    Asking is always worth it.

14. AnonymousNovember 15,2024 at 11:51PM UTC

    I am the OP above and yes that is correct but when beginning a new relationship with a new employer direct communication is the first step to a long and prosperous relationship.

15. DeniseNovember 15,2024 at 2:27PM UTC

    They most likely offering ICHRA which is a Healthcare benefit reimbursement plan. For many companies especially small ones this is a more affordable program to offer vs the traditional group Healthcare plan which is very expensive and harder to manage. With an ICHRA you get to choose whichever plan you want on the marketplace or anywhere else and your company will reimburse you up to a certain limit each month. But like many others have stated ask the employer so you know for certain.

16. Kelly TroutNovember 15,2024 at 8:58PM UTC

    Healthcare.gov is the market place and some states offer their own state health plans for purchase. Make sure your drs are in network, ask if you need to purchase dental or vision coverage and if you have out of network benefits. Some plans are only good in the state you live in. Also ask if there is coverage for mental health, how much copays or deductibles are. Good luck!