By state law, the monthly premiums that people pay in high risk insurance pools cannot be more than a set amount (for example, 2 times) greater than the average monthly premium in the state for private health insurance. In some states, furthermore, the amount may be set lower for children. The rate that individuals pay depends on the state they live in, as well as other factors such as their gender and age.
Enrollees are responsible for deductibles and co-payments. A deductible is a set amount you pay out-of-pocket for covered services before the insurance plan begins to make payments for you. A co-payment is the share of the cost you pay for out-of-pocket (for example, 20%) for a covered service. If there is a provision in the plan called a "stop loss" the amount you pay for co-payments and deductible in a year is capped at a specific amount, after which the insurance plan pays for 100%. States generally offer you a choice in plans, with varying levels of deductibles and co-payments.
Although eligibility is not based on income level, some states offer lower rates for those who qualify but have lower income than other enrollees.
