Ah, health insurance – the adult equivalent of a homework assignment that’s due tomorrow, and you haven’t even started. But hey, at least there’s the Health Insurance Marketplace, your one-stop-shop for all things insurance! But wait, what’s that lurking in the shadows? It’s scammy insurance offers trying to trip you up! Fear not, dear reader. I’m here to help you navigate this treacherous terrain with a dash of humor and a sprinkle of wisdom.

The “Free Stuff” Frenzy

If you stumble across an insurance ad promising you more freebies than a birthday party goodie bag, proceed with caution. These offers might focus on enticing you with things like “money for groceries” rather than the actual health coverage. Spoiler alert: real insurance focuses more on, you know, insuring your health. So, if it sounds too good to be true, it’s probably as useful as a chocolate teapot.

No Need to Pay for Enrollment Help

Here’s a pro tip: enrolling in the Health Insurance Marketplace is as free as a bird. If someone is asking for your cold hard cash, Bitcoin, or credit card details to help you enroll, it’s a scam. Politely decline, back away slowly, and maybe throw a salt shaker over your shoulder for good luck. The official Marketplace won’t charge you a cent for signing up.

Shop Smart at HealthCare.gov

The safest, most scam-free place to compare and sign up for health insurance is HealthCare.gov, or by calling the Marketplace Call Center at 1-800-318-2596. These are your go-to sources for reliable information and assistance. Consider them the Google Maps of health insurance – they’ll keep you from wandering into sketchy territory.

Free Help from the Pros

Feeling lost in the insurance jungle? Fear not! Free, independent help is available from Assisters and agents/brokers. Assisters are the friendly neighborhood superheroes who offer free advice and help you apply for health plans. Meanwhile, agents/brokers can assist with the plans they sell, but remember, they might not cover all your options. They’re paid by insurance companies, so keep that in mind as you peruse your options.

Deadlines and the Dreaded FOMO

Don’t let time slip away like socks in a dryer. Sign up by December 15th for coverage starting January 1st, or by January 15th for a February 1st start. Missing these deadlines could leave you without coverage and dealing with a serious case of FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out)!

Spot a Scam? Report It!

If you catch a whiff of something scammy, don’t hesitate to report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Think of it as your civic duty, like voting or recycling – except this time, you’re helping to keep the insurance marketplace honest.

So, there you have it! Stay sharp, stay informed, and remember, a little skepticism goes a long way in the world of health insurance.

For all the juicy details, check out the original article here: FTC Consumer Information

Original article: https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2025/12/how-avoid-health-insurance-scams-open-enrollment-season