ISSUE THIRTY-TWO | JANUARY 2026

Health Insurance Coverage Blues?

Many consumers in the market for health insurance for 2026 were hit with rate increases, decreased tax credits and unexpected costs during the ACA Open enrollment this year. While we completely recommend and endorse Qualified Health plans that contain the 10 Essential health benefits, we know that is not always the right solution for everyone. With that in mind, we offer a few options that might work for some consumers.

1. Open Enrollment continues for Health Coverage through January 15th and many are considering increasing their deductible and out of pocket costs and opting for HSA (Health Savings Accounts) plans that have lower premiums. These plans can be combined with a Hospital Confinement or Gap coverage plan. This year, all Bronze level plans are HSA compliant and combining them with the Hospital/Gap plans to pay for diagnostic tests, outpatient and inpatient services can protect you against unexpected costs.

2. Do you have HSA or FSA funds left over from another employer? In some cases you can utilize those funds towards co pays, deductibles and co insurance on an HSA plan and lower your costs.

3. Do you own a business? If so, Group Medical coverage may be the option for you to consider. Group Medical plans can offer the same carriers, (Florida Blue, United, etc) and most have similar HMO and PPO networks as the individual market plans and may be a lower cost option for your company. If you’d like to discuss these options please reach out to our office and complete the Group Census form.

4. Are you healthy and can pass underwriting health questions? A Short Term Medical plan may be the right answer for you! These plans are now available for 3, 6, 12 and 36 month durations. They do not have the same essential benefits as a Qualified ACA Health plan but may be an option for healthy individuals who don’t access care frequently and may not need the coverage for a lengthy amount of time. These plans do not offer any type of tax credit, offer no maternity coverage and some are available without preventive and RX benefits. Typically these options do have lower premiums and can be combined with Hospital, Accident, or Critical Care Coverages.

If you have any questions on any of these options, please contact our office and we’ll have a licensed agent who specializes in those coverages assist you. Be aware and don’t fall prey to those that would also charge additional fees for these benefits.

Group Census form

Is Your Auto Pay Turned on?

As we start the new year, it’s an important time to check the payment status of your Health insurance, Medicare or any billed coverage. Many insurance carriers disable the automatic payment function at the beginning of a New Year if there is premium increase or if they change billing entities and don’t retain your current payment information.

This can result in missed payments which can lead to a cancellation of coverage if you’re not paying close attention. We strongly encourage you to log into your carrier portal or contact them directly to confirm your premium has been paid and that future payments are scheduled if needed. Taking a few minutes now can help ensure your coverage remains active without interruption.

Do you know how Dental and Vision Care

Impact Your Health?

Dental and vision care can affect your overall health and is vital in helping you stay healthy. With the right plan, you can lower the cost of routine cleanings, exams, glasses, contacts, and more; often paying less than you would out of pocket. Our team works with a variety of carriers to help you choose coverage that fits your lifestyle, budget and we personalize plans that are accepted by your dental or vision provider.

And if you are a business owner, you can offer group plans for yourself and your employees at reduced rates. Remember, at Elite Insurance Associates, we design insurance with YOU in mind! If you’d like a quote for dental or vision, please complete the form below or reach out to our office at 904-527-1304, and we’ll be glad to assist you.

Dental/Vision Insurance Quote

• January was a monumental month for Alaska. As of January 3, 1959, Alaska officially became the 49th state of the United States

• The second Wednesday of January is National Take the Stairs Day. Just 7 minutes of stair climbing a day has been estimated to more than half the risk of a heart attack over 10 years. (Source)

• Now that Open Enrollment has closed for Medicare and is almost over for Health insurance, it’s time to review additional benefits such as Dental, Vision, Hospital Confinement, Cancer, Critical Illness and Accident plans.

• Originally, the Roman calendar had only 10 months, and it excluded January and February.

Around The Office: Welcome Tyriq!

Elite Insurance Associates is excited to announce the newest member of the team, Tyriq Doss. Tyriq joins the team with a strong commitment to client service and a passion for helping individuals and families find insurance solutions that fit their needs. As a new agent, he is focused on learning the industry, building lasting relationships, and upholding the high standards of professionalism and integrity.

He will be specializing in manufacturing industry as he has experience in this field. In his spare time, Tyriq enjoys spending time with his family. He is excited to take a leap of faith and challenge himself in learning something new. We are confident Tyriq will be a valuable addition to the team and a trusted resource for our clients.

Elite Services: Insurance Designed with You in Mind

Our Mission: To treat our clients like family - assisting, educating and providing benefits that protect them and their loved ones through all stages of life. We help unlock the mysteries of Healthcare and educate clients while being a resource they can readily turn to for answers.

Learn about exclusive benefit options for Florida's First Responders