Rating Factors

Health insurance premiums are calculated using many rating factors. Rating factors have much more influence on individual policy premiums than on group polices. Rating factors can include:

1. Age: the older you are, the more you might pay.
2. Health: the poorer your health, the more you might pay.
3. Chronic conditions: having one or more chronic or existing conditions can increase your premium.
4. Smoking/alcohol use: some companies charge more if you use tobacco or alcohol.
5. Gender: some insurance plans charge more depending upon your gender.
6. Geographic region: companies break-down coverage areas into 6-8 regions. Which region you live in can affect your premium.