Julian Wahl

A deductible is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance starts covering costs. For example, if your deductible is $2,000, you pay the first $2,000 of covered expenses yourself.

It depends on the plan's network. Some plans restrict you to in-network providers, while others offer PPO options that allow you to see out-of-network doctors at a higher cost.

HMO plans require you to use in-network doctors and get referrals to see specialists. PPO plans offer more flexibility to see out-of-network providers without referrals but usually cost more.

You can enroll during the annual Open Enrollment Period or during a Special Enrollment Period if you experience qualifying life events such as marriage, birth of a child, or loss of other coverage.