Add-On Coverage, Explained

1. What add-ons are, and aren't

Add-on plans pay set benefits for specific events or services. They work alongside a major medical health plan. They are not health insurance and do not replace it. If you don't have major medical coverage, sort that out first.

2. The six add-ons

Life insurance What it does: pays a lump sum to the people you name if you die while covered. Who it fits: anyone whose income supports someone else, or who has a mortgage or business debt. Types: term life covers a set number of years. Whole life lasts your whole life and builds cash value. Jeff offers both. Ask: "Do I need term or whole life, and how much would replace my income?"

Dental What it does: helps pay for cleanings, fillings and larger dental work. Plans often have waiting periods for major work. Who it fits: adults without dental coverage through work, and families with kids. Ask: "Is my dentist in network, and is there a waiting period for crowns?"

Vision What it does: helps pay for eye exams and an allowance toward glasses or contacts. Who it fits: people who buy glasses or contacts every year. Ask: "Is the yearly premium less than I'd pay out of pocket?"

Accident What it does: pays cash benefits after a covered injury, such as an ER visit, a fracture or follow-up care. Who it fits: active families, kids in sports, people in physical trades, and anyone with a high deductible. Ask: "What does it pay for an ER visit and a fracture, and is it paid to me?"

Critical illness What it does: pays a lump sum when you're diagnosed with a covered condition. Covered conditions vary by policy and often include heart attack, stroke and cancer. Who it fits: people without much savings set aside for a serious diagnosis, and self-employed people whose income stops when they can't work. Ask: "Exactly which diagnoses are covered, and does it pay again for a recurrence?"

Hospital indemnity What it does: pays a set amount for a covered hospital admission or stay. Who it fits: people on high-deductible plans who want help covering the deductible. Ask: "What does it pay per admission and per day, and is there a waiting period?"

3. Pairing guide

"Jeff W made finding dental insurance for my family an easy process. I had a specific dentist I wanted to use and he was able to find me affordable insurance that works with my favorite dentist. I highly recommend his services!" (Meghan Davis, Google review)

Take the free Find My Plan quiz, or talk with a licensed agent by phone or text. Jeff Weisblatt, 817-980-8804 (licensed in 28 states) · Amy Herdine, 817-470-2229 (licensed in Texas)

Sources: HealthCare.gov, Dental coverage (dental is offered separately for adults); HealthCare.gov, What Marketplace plans cover (essential health benefits, which these add-ons don't replace). Benefit details vary by policy, so check the policy itself. General information, not legal, tax or medical advice.