What is a disadvantage of having a high deductible?

Asked by: Dr. Lorine Bergnaum Sr.  |  Last update: April 12, 2025
Score: 4.5/5 (48 votes)

The primary disadvantages of a high-deductible health plan include the high out-of-pocket costs and the potential reluctance to seek medical care due to upfront expenses. While HDHPs have lower premiums, individuals may face financial strain if they need medical services before meeting the deductible.

What is bad about having a high-deductible?

Large medical expenses: Since HDHPs generally only cover preventive care, an accident or emergency could result in very high out-of-pocket costs. Future health risks: Because of the costs, you may refrain from visiting a physician, getting treatments, or purchasing prescriptions when they're not covered by your HDHP.

Why is it not a great idea to have a high-deductible?

High-deductible health plans usually carry lower premiums but require more out-of-pocket spending before insurance starts paying for care. Meanwhile, health insurance plans with lower deductibles offer more predictable costs and often more generous coverage, but they usually come with higher premiums.

What is the primary disadvantage to carrying a high-deductible insurance policy?

Costly out-of-pocket medical expenses: If you choose a high-deductible health plan and need non-preventive medical care, or costly medical care, you will have to pay all of your deductible before your plan begins to help you pay for covered costs.

What is the disadvantage of having a higher deductible quizlet?

What is the disadvantage of having a higher deductible? You will have to pay that amount out-of-pocket before the insurance company covers the repairs.

When is a High Deductible Health Plan with an HSA a Good Choice?

27 related questions found

What are the disadvantages of a deductible?

Disadvantages of Deductibles
  • Delayed Care. If you have a high health insurance deductible, you may hesitate to seek medical care until you've met your deductible. ...
  • Limited Provider Network. ...
  • Higher Out-of-Pocket Costs. ...
  • Complexity of Healthcare Costs.

What happens if you have a higher deductible?

Policies with lower deductibles typically have higher premiums, meaning you'll pay more each month for your insurance coverage. However, if you have a higher deductible, you may be able to save money on your premiums but may be responsible for paying more out of pocket if you need to file a claim.

What is the downside to having a high deductible auto insurance?

When you're choosing a deductible, keep in mind that you may be more or less comfortable with higher out-of-pocket costs vs monthly costs. A high deductible will lower your overall insurance rate, however it will increase your out-of-pocket costs if you file a claim.

What is the main disadvantage of choosing a high deductible on an insurance policy apex?

The primary disadvantages of a high-deductible health plan include the high out-of-pocket costs and the potential reluctance to seek medical care due to upfront expenses. While HDHPs have lower premiums, individuals may face financial strain if they need medical services before meeting the deductible.

What is the advantage of having a high deductible?

Advantages of an HDHP

HDHPs are popular because they have low monthly premiums. Because the premiums are lower than other health insurance plans, the deductible is higher. However, many HDHPs provide 100% in-network coverage for preventive services before you meet your deductible.

What is the upside to having a high deductible is car insurance?

Lower Premiums: The most significant advantage of a high deductible is lower premiums. If you're looking to reduce your monthly or annual insurance costs, increasing your deductible is one way to do it.

What is the upside to having a high deductible?

This means you'll pay less each month for insurance and more out-of-pocket when you receive care. The upside? Preventive care is still covered at 100 percent on these plans. Once you hit your deductible, your health plan will start to cover the cost of your other care.

Are no deductible plans good?

A no-deductible plan can be a good choice for your family if you want immediate coverage without needing to meet a deductible first, especially if multiple family members need regular care. However, these plans often have higher premiums, so consider your budget.

Is it better to have a higher premium or higher deductible?

If you are generally healthy and don't have pre-existing conditions, a plan with a higher deductible might be a better choice for you. Your monthly premium is lower since you're only visiting the doctor for annual checkups, and you're not in need of frequent health care services.

What is the minimum high deductible?

Per the 2025 guidance, an HDHP musts have a deductible of at least $1,650 for individual coverage and a deductible of at least $3,300 if you have a family plan. In addition, the plan's out-of-pocket limit must be no higher than $8,300 for an individual plan or $16,600 for a family plan.

Why do companies push high deductible health plans?

Although a high deductible may sound like a bad thing, in some cases, it makes financial sense. By opting for a higher deductible, employees can secure lower monthly premiums. This makes coverage more affordable, and it can be particularly appealing to young workers who do not expect to have major health issues.

What is one disadvantage to a high-deductible health plan?

Cons of High Deductible Healthcare Plans

For example, someone injured may avoid the emergency room if they know it will result in an expensive bill that will be applied to the plan deductible. This reluctance is especially true for those new to a plan who have not yet established an HSA.

Are gold plans worth it?

Gold plans often have high monthly costs, but when you receive care, your costs will be lower. They are a good fit for people who are moderate or heavy users of health services.

What is true about high deductible plans?

A plan with a higher deductible than a traditional insurance plan. The monthly premium is usually lower, but you pay more health care costs yourself before the insurance company starts to pay its share (also called your deductible).

Do you have to pay your deductible if you're not at fault?

It depends on your insurance policy. Some insurance policies require you to pay your deductible even if you are not at fault, while others do not. Reviewing your policy or speaking with your insurance agent to understand your coverage is important.

Is it better to have a $500 or $1000 deductible?

Since a lower deductible equates to more coverage, you'll have to pay more in your monthly premiums to balance out this increased coverage. A survey commissioned by InsuraQuotes found that an increase in deductible from $500 to $1,000 had an average of 8-10% reduction in premium costs.

How much will my insurance go down if I raise my deductible?

On average, raising your deductible will save $408 a year. A higher home insurance deductible means lower insurance premiums, and vice-versa, but you should be able to afford your deductible in the event of a claim.

Why would you want a high deductible?

Key takeaways. Low deductibles are best when an illness or injury requires extensive medical care. High-deductible plans offer more manageable premiums and access to HSAs. HSAs offer a trio of tax benefits and can be a source of retirement income.

Is it better to have a higher deductible for car insurance?

Pros. A high deductible generally means lower insurance premiums. Depending on your budget, this could make the difference between purchasing essential insurance or going without. If you don't plan to file claims for minor losses, a higher deductible might make sense.

Do you have to pay a deductible if someone hits your parked car?

With both collision and uninsured motorist property damage coverage, you may be responsible for paying a deductible before your insurance provider will help pay for the damage. Your coverage will also be subject to your policy limits, which is the maximum amount your insurance will pay for a covered claim.