Before subsidies, the average benchmark silver plan for a 40-year-old in Minnesota costs $525 a month for 2027 (the national average is $704). Premium tax credits bring that down for many households, depending on income and family size.
If you want someone to shop the Minnesota market for you, a broker is the usual route. The 8 offices below sit closest to St. Joseph and list themselves as brokers or independent agencies, which typically means access to more than one insurer.
Health Insurance Brokers near St. Joseph
Licensed agents can compare plans available in Stearns County, check your doctors and estimate your premium tax credit. Free to you.
Call 866-645-8540What a broker can compare for you
Premiums, deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums; which doctors and hospitals are in each network; whether your prescriptions are covered; and whether you qualify for a premium tax credit.
Do brokers cost more?
No. Health insurers pay brokers a commission that's already part of the premium. You pay the same price for a plan whether you buy it yourself or through a broker.
Broker or agent: what's the difference?
A captive agent sells one company's plans. An independent agent or broker is appointed with several insurers and can compare them. In everyday use the words overlap, so ask any office which carriers it can quote in Minnesota.
Carriers a St. Joseph broker can quote
For 2027, marketplace plans in Minnesota come from 5 insurers: Blue Plus, HealthPartners, Medica, Quartz and Aspirus Health Plan. Not every insurer sells in every county. An independent broker appointed with several of them can compare prices and networks side by side.
A quick checklist
- Make a list of your doctors, hospitals and prescriptions before you call anyone.
- Compare total yearly cost (premiums plus deductible), not just the monthly premium.
- Write down the enrollment deadline and confirm your first premium payment.
- Have a realistic estimate of next year's household income; subsidies are based on it.
Checking an agent's license in Minnesota
- The Minnesota Department of Commerce's Look Up a License Holder directory includes an Insurance Producers/Agencies search, which links to the online licensing database where you can confirm an agent's license. Source
- The Minnesota Department of Commerce licenses insurance producers and agencies and regulates insurance in the state. It also takes consumer complaints and publishes its enforcement actions. Source
Frequently asked questions
Is there a fee to use a broker?
Most health insurance brokers charge nothing to individuals and families; the insurer pays them. Ask up front if you're unsure.
How do I find a good health insurance broker in St. Joseph?
Look for a broker licensed in Minnesota who can quote several carriers, is certified with the MNsure, and has reviews from local clients. You can verify any license with the Minnesota insurance regulator.
When can I buy a plan?
During open enrollment (Nov 1 to January 15 on the MNsure), or within 60 days of a qualifying life event such as losing other coverage, moving, marriage or a new baby.
Brokers in nearby cities
- Waite Park, MN 3 miles
- Sartell, MN 6 miles
- St. Cloud, MN 7 miles
- Sauk Rapids, MN 8 miles
- Little Falls, MN 29 miles
- Monticello, MN 31 miles
- Big Lake, MN 31 miles
- Litchfield, MN 32 miles
- Buffalo, MN 34 miles
- Zimmerman, MN 35 miles