Frequently Asked Questions
Working With an Insurance Agent
Q: Does it cost anything to use an insurance agent in Michigan?
A: No. Working with Zimmer & Associates does not cost you anything. Our services are provided at no cost, and we are compensated by insurance carriers, not our clients.
Q: Do I need an insurance agent to enroll in health insurance?
A: No, an insurance agent is not required to enroll. However, an agent can help explain coverage options, compare plans, and answer questions before or after enrollment.
Q: Is Zimmer & Associates a local insurance agency?
A: Yes. Zimmer & Associates is a locally owned insurance agency located in Reese, Michigan, serving individuals, families, and businesses throughout the surrounding areas.
Health Insurance & Marketplace
Q: What is the Health Insurance Marketplace?
A: The Health Insurance Marketplace is a government-run website where individuals and families can compare and enroll in ACA-compliant health insurance plans, often with access to income-based subsidies that can lower monthly premiums.
Q: Can I enroll in Marketplace health insurance online?
A: Yes. You can enroll online through the official Health Insurance Marketplace using our external enrollment link.
Q: Will I still qualify for subsidies if I enroll on my own?
A: Yes. Eligibility for Marketplace subsidies is based on household income and other factors, not whether you enroll independently or with an agent.
Q: Can an insurance agent help after I enroll through the Marketplace?
A: Yes. Even if you enroll on your own, Zimmer & Associates can help answer questions, review coverage, and assist with plan-related concerns.
Q: What is a Special Enrollment Period for health insurance?
A: A Special Enrollment Period allows you to enroll in or change health insurance outside of Open Enrollment due to qualifying life events such as marriage, birth of a child, loss of coverage, or relocation.
Q: Can you help me determine if I qualify for a Special Enrollment Period?
A: Yes. We can help determine if your situation qualifies for a Special Enrollment Period and guide you through the next steps.
Group Health Insurance
Q: How many employees are required for group health insurance?
A: Group health insurance may be available for businesses with as few as one eligible employee, depending on the business structure and circumstances.
Q: Is group health insurance better than individual health insurance?
A: In many cases, group health insurance offers broader benefits and more competitive rates than individual plans. We help compare options to determine the best fit.
Medicare
Q: Do I need to enroll in Medicare if I am still working?
A: It depends on your employer coverage and company size. We help individuals understand Medicare enrollment rules to avoid late penalties.
Q: Can I change my Medicare plan after enrolling?
A: Yes. Medicare plans can be changed during certain enrollment periods, including the Annual Enrollment Period and qualifying Special Enrollment Periods.
Life Insurance
Q: How much life insurance coverage do I need?
A: The amount of life insurance needed depends on income, debts, family needs, and long-term goals. We help determine appropriate coverage based on your situation.
Annuities
Q: What is an annuity and how does it work?
A: An annuity is a financial product designed to provide a steady income stream, often used as part of a retirement strategy. Annuities can help protect savings and provide predictable income over time.
Q: Are annuities safe investments?
A: Many annuities offer protection from market loss and are backed by highly rated insurance carriers. The level of safety depends on the type of annuity selected and individual financial goals.
Q: Who should consider an annuity?
A: Annuities may be a good option for individuals approaching or in retirement who are looking for guaranteed income, protection from market volatility, or long-term financial stability.
Disability Insurance
Q: What is disability insurance?
A: Disability insurance provides income protection if you are unable to work due to an illness or injury, helping replace a portion of your income during that time.
Q: Who should consider disability insurance?
A: Disability insurance is especially important for working individuals, business owners, and self-employed professionals who rely on their income to cover everyday expenses.
Q: How much income does disability insurance replace?
A: Most disability insurance policies replace a percentage of your income, typically between 50% and 70%, depending on the policy and carrier.
Medicaid Assistance
Q: Can an insurance agency help with Medicaid applications?
A: Yes. Zimmer & Associates assists clients with Medicaid planning, eligibility questions, and the application process.
Additional Questions
Q: Can Zimmer & Associates help me decide if annuities or disability insurance are right for me?
A: Yes. We offer no-cost consultations to help determine whether annuities or disability insurance fit your financial and income-protection goals.
Q: Who should I contact if I have questions about my insurance options?
A: If you have questions about health insurance, Medicare, life insurance, or Medicaid, contact Zimmer & Associates for a no-cost consultation.
If you have further questions or need personalized assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 989.868.4291 or by email izimmer@zimmer.agency
