Maggie’s top learnings from spending a year researching, signing up for, and using ACA marketplace insurance:Plan ahead, this takes time and research. We discuss how you can price out and see the different plans, how the number and types of plans are quite complicated, some tips regarding the application process, and whether or not you need to work with a broker or rep.Understand the levels of plans. There are bronze, silver, gold, and platinum plans, and they are explained here. Understand how subsidies work, as they can be quite generous if you’re not working or on a low income. We explain how the subsidies work, how you can estimate your AGI (adjusted gross income), what happens if you misestimate your AGI, and how you can proactively manage your AGI.   Understand how cost-sharing reductions work.  The cost-sharing reductions are clutch  and only available on the silver plans.You’re likely going to need to change doctors and maybe even adjust medications. This is OK. A lot of things are going to change for you in early retirement, and in the grand scheme of things, these are doable changes. We recommend consulting with existing doctors and being very detailed oriented about which doctors and medications are covered in which plans.Fight for your rights and ask questions and double-triple-check! If the marketplace says a doctor is covered and the doctor says they aren’t, do more research on both ends.We wrap up this episode by sharing what Maggie and Greg are paying for 2023 insurance premiums.  Top 3 Takeaways:Your options for medical insurance are not limited to employer-sponsored plans.  Insurance on the marketplace can be quite affordable if you’re truly retired and/or living on a lower income.Do your research and plan ahead.  Learn about and understand the subsidies and cost-sharing reductions. This is what makes marketplace insurance affordable.  Show References:friends on FIRE podcast #118 - It’s benefits season! So how do you pick the right ones?friends on FIRE podcast #139 - Medical insurance in early retirement (part 3 of 5)friends on FIRE podcast #128 - Creative ways to save on medical expensesA one-page guide to the MarketplaceLearn more about healthcare.govs plan categoriesShop Healthcare.gov - See plans + prices---Follow friends on FIRETwitterInstagramFacebookLinkedInLeave us a voicemail or text us: 404-981-3370eMail us at:  friendsonfiremm@gmail.comVisit our website: www.friendsonfire.org---Other LinksMaggie’s Blog: Mostly Minimal LifeMike’s Book: Your New Relationship with Money