HEALTH INSURANCE

 

Health insurance is a complicated and scary topic for a lot of singers. Below are some options for obtaining insurance as a self-employed person. If you belong to a union, chances are some type of insurance is available to you. If you're on your own, there are still options, but don't expect the best or cheapest plans. Whatever your status, here are some ideas to try:

 

Visit the Actors' Fund's terrific website for extensive state-by-state information on obtaining health insurance:

http://www.actorsfund.org/ahirc/index2.html

 

TEIGIT (The Entertainment Industry Group Insurance Trust)

This organization provides administered health insurance plans for members of participating associations (such as AGMA) in the arts and entertainment industry in limited areas. Currently, health insurance programs are available under CIGNA in Southern New York State, Connecticut, New Jersey, California, Massachusetts, the greater Chicago area, the greater Atlanta area, and Southern Florida. Current plans include HMO, PPO, Point of Service, Dental, Disability, and Group Life Insurance.. You must be a member of one of their participating associations to qualify.

 

845 Third Ave.
New York, NY 10022
(800) 886-7504
(212) 758-5675
Fax: (212) 888-4916

 

If you're a temp, often your agency will offer some type of coverage. It's usually not great, but also not too expensive and better than nothing. Ask your counselor.

 

COBRA. If you are recently terminated (or quit) from a job or school, you may be eligible for limited time continued health coverage. Visit the COBRA website at www.cobrainsurance.com for more information.

 

National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE). This organization requires you to become a member in order to enroll in their health insurance. They also offer a variety of other services and resources. www.nase.org.

 

Many organizations offer health insurance for the self-employed. Do a search through www.google.com for self-employed health insurance and see what turns up.

 

In this article on ivillagehealth.com, David Lack offers tips on finding health insurance if you're unemployed: Article