Before subsidies, the average benchmark silver plan for a 40-year-old in New York costs $1,041 a month for 2027 (the national average is $704). Premium tax credits bring that down for many households, depending on income and family size.
Brokers in the University at Buffalo area can quote individual, family and self-employed coverage from multiple carriers licensed in New York. Their commission is built into the premium, so using one doesn't raise your price. Here are 11 brokerages within reach of University at Buffalo.
Health Insurance Brokers near University at Buffalo
Licensed agents can compare plans available in Erie 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.
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 New York.
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.
Carriers a University at Buffalo broker can quote
For 2027, marketplace plans in New York come from 12 insurers: Anthem (formerly Empire), CDPHP, EmblemHealth (HIP), Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, Fidelis Care, Healthfirst, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of WNY/NENY, Independent Health, MetroPlusHealth, MVP Health Care, Oscar Health and UnitedHealthcare. 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
- Have a realistic estimate of next year's household income; subsidies are based on it.
- Compare total yearly cost (premiums plus deductible), not just the monthly premium.
- Ask each agent which carriers they can quote in your county.
- Write down the enrollment deadline and confirm your first premium payment.
Checking an agent's license in New York
- New York's Department of Financial Services offers an online Producer/Licensee Search. It shows whether an agent or broker has been issued a license, along with the license number. Source
- The New York State Department of Financial Services licenses insurance agents and brokers, including those who sell health coverage, and regulates insurers in the state. Source
Frequently asked questions
When can I buy a plan?
During open enrollment (Nov 1 to January 31 on the NY State of Health), or within 60 days of a qualifying life event such as losing other coverage, moving, marriage or a new baby.
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 University at Buffalo?
Look for a broker licensed in New York who can quote several carriers, is certified with the NY State of Health, and has reviews from local clients. You can verify any license with the New York insurance regulator.
Brokers in nearby cities
- Eggertsville, NY 3 miles
- Williamsville, NY 4 miles
- Tonawanda, NY 5 miles
- North Tonawanda, NY 5 miles
- Kenmore, NY 5 miles
- Harris Hill, NY 6 miles
- Depew, NY 8 miles
- Buffalo, NY 8 miles
- South Lockport, NY 11 miles
- Lockport, NY 12 miles