2. When to Recommend ACA
There are situations where ACA is the better fit. Know when to say so.
- Client has significant pre-existing conditions requiring ongoing specialist care, surgeries, or high Rx costs
- Client qualifies for a substantial subsidy (paying $0–$100/month after tax credits)
- Client is pregnant or planning to be — maternity coverage is essential on ACA, not available on our plans
- Client requires mental health or substance use disorder treatment coverage
- Client is on pain management, blood thinners, or Type 1 diabetes medication — these are ongoing high-cost conditions our plan is not designed for
- Client has intellectual disabilities such as Down syndrome — the ongoing care requirements are better served by ACA or Medicaid
- Client cannot pass our underwriting health questions
If the client falls into any of the above categories, do the right thing. Refer them to the ACA marketplace or a broker who specializes in it. Your reputation as an honest advisor is worth far more than one commission.