Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Resources · Questions answered
Does it cost more to use a Medicare or ACA insurance agent?
By Ankur Mehta, licensed independent insurance agent in Florida, Georgia and Texas · Updated October 28, 2026
Short answer: No. Using a licensed agent for Medicare or ACA Marketplace coverage doesn’t cost you anything extra. The insurance company pays the agent, and your premium is the same whether you enroll with an agent or on your own.
Why the price is the same
Medicare Advantage, Part D and ACA Marketplace premiums are set by the insurance company and approved by regulators. An agent can’t add a fee or mark up the price. When you enroll through an agent, the insurance company pays the agent a commission that’s already built into its costs, the same as if you enrolled online.
What an agent does for you
- Compares plans from several insurance companies, side by side.
- Checks that your doctors, hospitals and prescriptions are covered.
- For Marketplace plans, estimates your tax credit and helps you apply on HealthCare.gov or Georgia Access.
- Helps you enroll correctly and on time.
- Stays available after you enroll for billing questions, claims problems and yearly reviews.
Captive vs. independent agents
A captive agent works for one insurance company and can only offer its plans. An independent agent, like me, is appointed with many companies and can compare more of your options. Not every company is available in every county, so always ask which companies an agent works with.
What to ask before you work with an agent
- Are you licensed in my state? (You can check with your state’s insurance department.)
- Which insurance companies do you work with?
- Will you help me after I enroll?
I’m licensed and appointed for Medicare and ACA Marketplace plans in Florida, Georgia and Texas, and my help is always free.
Have a question about your situation? Call (904) 612-3757 or request a free review.
We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 16 Medicare organizations which offer 285+ products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options. Not affiliated with any government agency, including Medicare.