Turning 26? Here's how to buy your own health insurance

Use Stride to find your best plan in 3 minutes... no, seriously. 

(PS: Our algorithm saves you 418 dollars a year, on average)

Here's what you need to know:

Your birthday is a qualifying event. Turning 26 is a qualifying event, which means you have 60 days before or after your big day to sign up for a new health plan. Set a reminder, do whatever you have to do, just don't forget. After 60 days you're out of luck. 

There is a teeny bit of paperwork. You’ll need documented proof that you’re getting kicked off your parents’ plan, like a termination letter from the previous health plan. You’ll also need a legal form of identification, like a driver's license or passport.

Ready to pick your plan? Here are some tips:

1. Healthy? Try an HSA. Pair a high deductible plan (lower monthly payments, but you pay more before insurance kicks in) with a Health Savings Account. HSAs allow you save money tax-free to use on future medical expenses. They are a powerful financial tool.

2. Look for a subsidy. Depending on your income, the government may pay for some of your health insurance. Subsidies can make plans significantly more affordable. Many people qualify, so don’t forget to check!

3. Compare your options. Much like buying a wand, you can’t just pick any health plan... you need the one that fits you best. Use our health insurance search to find the plan matches your personal healthcare needs! We make it easy to compare your options and even recommend the plan that we think will save you the most.

Adulthood has a lot of surprises, but health insurance shouldn't be one of them. Use Stride to sign up for your plan in minutes, and be sure to reach out if you have any questions!