Since 2001, large health and dental insurance companies such as BlueCross and GE Financial have offered health insurance online. As a result, individuals and small business owners have more options when purchasing insurance. Consumers can access quotes for premiums and coverage plans to find the most affordable package for their needs.

Determine Your Needs

Health and dental insurance is not just about finding the lowest premiums. You also need to factor in the costs of co-pays, deductibles, and maximum benefits. Determine how often you see a doctor and how much you can afford to pay in medical expenses. Too little coverage can set you back financially if you have an unexpected hospital bill, so make sure you have enough coverage to protect yourself.

You should also be aware that pre-existing conditions are not typically covered for the first 12 months of the health or dental insurance policy. This is common whether you receive coverage from an employer or purchase it yourself.

Start Getting Quotes

Online health and dental companies are dominated by traditional insurance companies, not shady entities. These traditional insurance companies use the internet to allow you to research their financial records, terms and conditions, and customer service practices. The internet has also increased competition between providers, resulting in more affordable options for individuals and small business owners.

Comparing Quotes

When you request a quote online for health or dental insurance, the company will give you a "base" rate quote, what an average consumer will pay in your area with average health conditions. The more information you provide, the more realistic the quote will be. "Base" quotes allow you to quickly compare plans and prices, without having to submit answers to a tedious amount of questions.

The Official Quote

To get an official quote, you will need to fill out an application with an insurance company. Typically an insurance company will require access to your health records, submitting to a medical exam, and providing answers to a detailed questionnaire. The insurance company uses the information to determine your risk to give you an official quote.

Once you have an official insurance quote, the paperwork is practically finished so you can quickly have health and dental insurance. The entire process can take up about four weeks.

To view our list of recommended companies online that provide health insurance and can help you compare quotes, visit this page: Recommended Insurance Companies Online.

Carrie Reeder is the owner of eZerk, an informational website with articles and information about various topics.