3. You can usually find more plans from which to choose online. Many agents will try to sell you the plan(s) that they would prefer selling as opposed to what may be the best plan of choice for you.
4. Most companies have a page where you can generate your own individual quote for the plans you are most interested in purchasing. As a rule, the quotes you generate are free and you can get quotes for more than one plan.
5. If, after you get your quotes, you can apply online right away. You don't have to wait for the post office to deliver the materials. Everything you need to apply is immediately available.
6. Your health information is kept private. Since you are applying online, you are (or should be) on the insurance company's secure website. All information that is entered in the online application is kept private. Many companies will require that you set up a user name and password before beginning the application process.
7. Most insurance companies allow payment for premiums by credit card. You should be able to pay at least the first month premium via credit card. Part of the application will be choosing your method of payment anyhow-usually by monthly bank draft from your checking or savings account.
8. Online shopping for health insurance will allow you a greater number of companies from which to choose your plan. Virtually all of the major insurance companies have an Internet presence and will welcome your request for information, quotes and application.
9. Finally, you may come across some insurance companies that simply don't want to offer an insurance contract without your having spoken to one of their agents. In this case, simply fill out the "Contact Us" link on their website and the company will forward your request to an agent.

By Louis Neal © 2006

Louis Neal is an independent insurance agent offering online health and life insurance plans through his website http://www.lowhealthinsurance.com He is a member of the National Association of Health Underwriters and the Association of Health Insurance Advisors